Daniel 7:24

KJV

And the ten horns out of this kingdom [are] ten kings [that] shall arise: and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the ten {H6236} horns {H7162} out of {H4481} this kingdom {H4437} are ten {H6236} kings {H4430} that shall arise {H6966}: and another {H321} shall rise {H6966} after {H311} them; and he shall be diverse {H8133} from {H4481} the first {H6933}, and he shall subdue {H8214} three {H8532} kings {H4430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

As for the ten horns, out of this kingdom ten kings will arise; and yet another will arise after them. Now he will be different from the earlier ones, and he will put down three kings.

Berean Standard Bible

And the ten horns are ten kings who will rise from this kingdom. After them another king, different from the earlier ones, will rise and subdue three kings.

American Standard Version

And as for the ten horns, out of this kingdom shall ten kings arise: and another shall arise after them; and he shall be diverse from the former, and he shall put down three kings.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 7:24 provides a crucial interpretive key to Daniel's vision of the four beasts, specifically focusing on the fourth and most terrifying beast. This verse reveals that the ten horns seen on this final kingdom represent ten kings or rulers who will emerge from it. Furthermore, it prophesies the rise of an eleventh, distinct ruler who will succeed them, characterized by his unique nature and his aggressive act of subduing three of the initial ten kings, thereby consolidating his power and establishing his dominion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 7:24 is an integral part of Daniel's first prophetic vision, recorded in Daniel 7. This chapter shifts from the historical narratives of Daniel 1-6 to apocalyptic prophecy, presenting a dream given to Daniel himself, rather than to a foreign king as in Daniel 2. The vision describes four great beasts emerging from the sea, each symbolizing a successive world empire. The fourth beast, described as "dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly" ([Daniel 7:7](/daniel/7-7 "Daniel 7:7 - The Fourth Beast")), is the focus of Daniel's particular concern and the angel's subsequent interpretation. Verse 24 specifically interprets the "ten horns" and the "little horn" that emerges from this fourth beast, building upon the initial description in [Daniel 7:8](/daniel/7-8 "Daniel 7:8 - The Little Horn"). The preceding verses ([Daniel 7:23](/daniel/7-23 "Daniel 7:23 - Interpretation of the Fourth Beast")) identify the fourth beast as a kingdom that will "devour the whole earth," setting the stage for the detailed explanation of its internal dynamics and the rise of its rulers.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Daniel received this vision during the reign of Belshazzar, king of Babylon, likely around 553 BC, placing it early in the Babylonian exile. This was a period when the Jewish people were under foreign dominion, and prophecies concerning the rise and fall of empires would have held profound significance, offering both a sense of God's sovereign control over history and a glimpse into the future of world powers. The imagery of beasts and horns was common in ancient Near Eastern apocalyptic literature, symbolizing political powers and rulers. For instance, horns often represented strength, power, and authority, as seen in various ancient cultures and even in other biblical texts like [Psalm 75:10](/psalms/75-10 "Psalm 75:10 - God Cuts Off the Horns of the Wicked"). The concept of successive empires was also familiar, as Babylon had conquered Assyria, and Persia would soon conquer Babylon, reinforcing the idea of shifting global hegemonies.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Daniel and biblical prophecy. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty** over human history and earthly kingdoms. Despite the formidable nature of the beasts and the rise of oppressive rulers, God remains in ultimate control, revealing His plans to His prophet ([Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons")). Secondly, it develops the theme of **Prophetic Interpretation**, as the angel explicitly explains the symbolic elements of the vision, affirming that prophecy is not meant to be indecipherable but divinely revealed. Thirdly, it introduces the theme of **Antichrist Figure**, foreshadowing the emergence of a uniquely powerful and oppressive ruler who will oppose God and His people, a figure further elaborated upon in [Daniel 7:25](/daniel/7-25 "Daniel 7:25 - The Little Horn's Blasphemy and Persecution") and other prophetic books. Finally, it highlights the **Conflict Between Kingdoms**, portraying the aggressive nature of earthly powers and the inevitable clash between human dominion and God's eternal kingdom ([Daniel 7:27](/daniel/7-27 "Daniel 7:27 - The Everlasting Kingdom")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Horns (Aramaic, _qeren'_):** This Aramaic term, corresponding to the Hebrew _qeren_, literally means "horn" but is used metaphorically throughout Scripture to denote strength, power, and authority, often symbolizing kings or kingdoms. In the context of Daniel's vision, the ten horns on the fourth beast unequivocally represent ten kings or rulers, indicating a division of power or a confederation of authorities arising from this final, powerful empire.
* **Diverse (Aramaic, _shᵉnâʼ'_):** This word signifies "to alter" or "to change," implying a qualitative difference. When applied to the "another" king, it emphasizes that this eleventh ruler will not merely be one in a succession of similar kings but will possess a unique character, methods, or ideology that sets him apart from the previous ten. This distinctiveness suggests a deviation from established norms or a singular, unprecedented approach to power.
* **Subdue (Aramaic, _shᵉphal'_):** Corresponding to the Hebrew _shaphel_, this term means "to depress," "to sink," or "to humble." In a political context, it denotes bringing low, deposing, or overcoming by force. The action of this new king "subduing three kings" indicates a forceful and decisive act of conquest or political overthrow, demonstrating his aggressive nature and his ability to consolidate power by dismantling existing authorities.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the ten horns out of this kingdom [are] ten kings [that] shall arise:"** This clause directly interprets the symbolic "ten horns" seen on the fourth beast, identifying them as ten distinct kings or rulers who will emerge from the final manifestation of this powerful empire. This clarifies that the vision is not merely about abstract political entities but about specific, identifiable leaders.
* **"and another shall rise after them;"** Following the emergence of the ten kings, a new, eleventh ruler is prophesied to appear. The timing "after them" suggests he either arises subsequently or comes to prominence by displacing some of the initial ten. This introduction of a singular, additional figure is crucial for the subsequent prophetic narrative.
* **"and he shall be diverse from the first,"** This phrase highlights the unique nature of this eleventh king. He will not conform to the characteristics or methods of the preceding ten kings; rather, he will possess a distinct quality, perhaps in his origin, his character, his policies, or his level of authority, setting him apart as an extraordinary figure.
* **"and he shall subdue three kings."** This final clause describes a specific, aggressive action of the diverse king: he will overcome or depose three of the original ten kings. This act signifies his ruthless ambition, his military or political prowess, and his method of consolidating power by eliminating rivals, thereby establishing his preeminence among the remaining rulers.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 7:24 primarily employs **Symbolism** and **Allegory**. The "horns" are symbolic representations, and the entire vision of the beasts functions as an allegory for successive world empires and their rulers. The verse provides the direct interpretation of these symbols, moving from the abstract imagery of the dream to concrete political realities. The description of the eleventh king as "diverse" from the others uses **Contrast** to highlight his unique and potentially sinister nature. The act of "subduing three kings" is a concise **Foreshadowing** of this ruler's aggressive and dominant character, setting the stage for his further actions described later in the chapter.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 7:24 is foundational for understanding the eschatological trajectory of human history from a biblical perspective. It underscores the recurring biblical theme that earthly powers, though seemingly invincible, are ultimately temporary and subject to divine decree. The emergence of the ten kings and the "diverse" eleventh king points to a final configuration of global power that will precede the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. This verse serves as a theological anchor, reminding believers that even the most formidable human rulers operate within the confines of God's sovereign plan, and their rise and fall are orchestrated by Him. It sets the stage for the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over all earthly dominions.

* [Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Everlasting Kingdom")
* [Revelation 13:1](/revelation/13-1 "Revelation 13:1 - The Beast from the Sea")
* [1 John 2:18](/1_john/2-18 "1 John 2:18 - Many Antichrists")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 7:24, while deeply rooted in ancient prophecy, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It calls us to cultivate a worldview shaped by divine foresight, recognizing that God is not surprised by geopolitical shifts or the rise of powerful, even oppressive, leaders. Instead, He has revealed His overarching plan, demonstrating that even the most formidable earthly powers are but instruments or obstacles within His ultimate design. This understanding should foster a profound sense of peace and trust in God's sovereignty, alleviating anxiety about future uncertainties. It also compels us to be discerning, to recognize the signs of the times, and to stand firm in our faith amidst a world that may increasingly manifest characteristics described in these prophecies. Our primary allegiance must remain with the King of kings, whose kingdom will endure forever, rather than placing our hope in transient earthly powers.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's sovereignty over the rise and fall of nations impact your view of current global events?**
* **In what ways might the "diverse" nature of the eleventh king serve as a warning about charismatic or unconventional leaders in any era?**
* **How can the knowledge of future prophecies strengthen your resolve to live faithfully in the present, rather than inducing fear or passivity?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "ten horns" and the "three kings" in Daniel 7:24?**

Answer: The "ten horns" are explicitly interpreted in this verse as "ten kings" who will arise from the final, powerful kingdom represented by the fourth beast. This signifies a confederation or succession of ten rulers. The "three kings" refer to three of these initial ten kings whom the "another" (eleventh) king will "subdue." This act of subduing indicates a forceful overthrow or political dismantling, demonstrating the unique power and aggressive nature of this eleventh ruler as he consolidates his dominion. While specific historical identifications vary among scholars, the symbolic meaning points to a significant shift in power dynamics within a final world empire.

**How is the "another" king, who is "diverse from the first," typically understood in Christian theology?**

Answer: The "another" king, who is "diverse from the first" and subdues three kings, is widely identified in Christian theology with the "little horn" described earlier in [Daniel 7:8](/daniel/7-8 "Daniel 7:8 - The Little Horn"). This figure is often understood as a precursor or type of the Antichrist, a powerful and uniquely oppressive world leader who will emerge in the end times. His "diverse" nature suggests a unique character, perhaps in his methods, ideology, or even his supernatural backing, setting him apart from conventional rulers. He is seen as a figure who will challenge established order, persecute God's people ([Daniel 7:25](/daniel/7-25 "Daniel 7:25 - The Little Horn's Persecution")), and ultimately set himself against God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 7:24 describes the rise of earthly kings and an oppressive "diverse" ruler, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the stark contrast it presents to the eternal reign of Jesus Christ. The vision of the "little horn" and his temporary dominion serves to highlight the absolute and everlasting authority of the "Son of Man" who is given "dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him" ([Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Comes")). Unlike the earthly kings who rise and fall, and the "diverse" ruler who achieves power through subjugation, Christ's kingdom is established not by force but by sacrificial love and divine appointment ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World")). The temporary reign of the "little horn" ultimately gives way to the "kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, [which] shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High" ([Daniel 7:27](/daniel/7-27 "Daniel 7:27 - The Everlasting Kingdom")). This is a kingdom over which Christ reigns supreme, having triumphed over all earthly powers and spiritual principalities through His death and resurrection ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities")). Thus, Daniel 7:24, by portraying the transient nature of human power and the emergence of an oppressive figure, ultimately magnifies the enduring, righteous, and eternally victorious reign of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will return to establish His kingdom in its fullness ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 7:20

And of the ten horns that [were] in his head, and [of] the other which came up, and before whom three fell; even [of] that horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake very great things, whose look [was] more stout than his fellows.

Daniel 11:36

And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.

Revelation 13:1

¶ And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.

Revelation 17:16

And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire.

Revelation 17:18

And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.

2 Thessalonians 2:3

¶ Let no man deceive you by any means: for [that day shall not come], except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;

2 Thessalonians 2:10

And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.