Daniel 8:1

¶ In the third year of the reign of king Belshazzar a vision appeared unto me, [even unto] me Daniel, after that which appeared unto me at the first.

In the third {H7969} year {H8141} of the reign {H4438} of king {H4428} Belshazzar {H1112} a vision {H2377} appeared {H7200} unto me, even unto me Daniel {H1840}, after {H310} that which appeared {H7200} unto me at the first {H8462}.

After that first vision, it was in the third year of the reign of King Belshatzar that another vision appeared to me, Dani'el.

In the third year of the reign of King Belshazzar, a vision appeared to me, Daniel, subsequent to the one that had appeared to me earlier.

In the third year of the reign of king Belshazzar a vision appeared unto me, even unto me, Daniel, after that which appeared unto me at the first.

Commentary

Context

Daniel 8:1 precisely dates this pivotal prophetic vision to the "third year of the reign of king Belshazzar." This chronological detail is crucial for understanding the book of Daniel. While Daniel chapter 5 records Belshazzar's dramatic downfall and the fall of Babylon, chapters 7 and 8 present visions that *precede* these events in time, though they are placed later in the book's narrative to group prophetic content. Belshazzar was the co-regent in Babylon, serving under his father Nabonidus. Daniel, a respected and influential figure within the Babylonian court, continued to receive profound divine revelations during this period of Babylonian supremacy, setting the stage for future empires.

Key Themes

  • Divine Revelation and Foresight: The primary theme is God's active communication with humanity through visions. This verse emphasizes that God is not silent but reveals future events, demonstrating His sovereign control over history and empires. The phrase "a vision appeared unto me, even unto me Daniel" underscores the personal and direct nature of this divine encounter, highlighting Daniel's unique role as a prophet.
  • Continuity of Prophecy: The text notes "after that which appeared unto me at the first," indicating that this vision is not isolated but builds upon and expands previous revelations. This directly refers to the vision recorded in Daniel chapter 7, where Daniel saw four great beasts representing successive world empires. The vision in chapter 8 provides more specific details concerning two of these empires, particularly Medo-Persia and Greece.
  • God's Sovereignty Over Empires: The timing of the vision during Belshazzar's reign, a time of Babylonian power, yet looking forward to the rise and fall of subsequent kingdoms, reinforces the theme that God ultimately dictates the course of nations and historical periods.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "vision" here is chazon (חָזוֹן), which refers to a prophetic insight or revelation, often experienced in a dream or trance-like state. It signifies a divinely granted understanding of future events or spiritual truths, distinguishing it from an ordinary dream. The repetition "unto me, even unto me Daniel" serves to emphasize the specific recipient of this profound revelation, underscoring its authenticity and direct divine origin to the prophet Daniel.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's meticulous planning and His ultimate control over the timeline of human history. Just as He revealed future empires to Daniel, He continues to work out His purposes today. For believers, it encourages a diligent study of prophetic Scripture, assuring us that God has a grand design that will ultimately culminate in His eternal kingdom. Understanding these ancient prophecies can strengthen our faith in God's faithfulness and His ability to bring all things to their appointed end, as seen in the promise of a new heaven and a new earth.

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Cross-References

  • Daniel 7:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, [and] told the sum of the matters.

  • Daniel 9:2 (2 votes)

    In the first year of his reign I Daniel understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem.

  • Daniel 10:2 (2 votes)

    In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks.

  • Daniel 10:7 (2 votes)

    And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves.

  • Daniel 7:15 (2 votes)

    ¶ I Daniel was grieved in my spirit in the midst of [my] body, and the visions of my head troubled me.

  • Daniel 8:15 (2 votes)

    ¶ And it came to pass, when I, [even] I Daniel, had seen the vision, and sought for the meaning, then, behold, there stood before me as the appearance of a man.

  • Daniel 7:28 (2 votes)

    Hitherto [is] the end of the matter. As for me Daniel, my cogitations much troubled me, and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart.