Daniel 8:13

KJV

Then I heard one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain [saint] which spake, How long [shall be] the vision [concerning] the daily [sacrifice], and the transgression of desolation, to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot?

KJV (with Strong's)

Then I heard {H8085} one {H259} saint {H6918} speaking {H1696}, and another {H259} saint {H6918} said {H559} unto that certain {H6422} saint which spake {H1696}, How long shall be the vision {H2377} concerning the daily {H8548} sacrifice, and the transgression {H6588} of desolation {H8074}, to give {H5414} both the sanctuary {H6944} and the host {H6635} to be trodden under foot {H4823}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to the speaker, "How long will the events of the vision last, this vision concerning the regular offering and the transgression which is so appalling, that allows the sanctuary and the army to be trampled underfoot?"

Berean Standard Bible

Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to him, “How long until the fulfillment of the vision of the daily sacrifice, the rebellion that causes desolation, and the surrender of the sanctuary and of the host to be trampled?”

American Standard Version

Then I heard a holy one speaking; and another holy one said unto that certain one who spake, How long shall be the vision concerning the continual burnt-offering, and the transgression that maketh desolate, to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 8:13 captures a pivotal moment within Daniel's vision, as two angelic beings engage in a profound dialogue concerning the duration of a period of intense tribulation. One "saint" asks another how long the vision pertaining to the cessation of the daily sacrifice, the "transgression of desolation," and the subsequent trampling of both the sanctuary and God's people will endure. This urgent inquiry encapsulates a deep heavenly concern over the desecration of sacred space and the severe suffering inflicted upon the covenant community, highlighting a divinely appointed limit to such profound oppression and a yearning for its pre-ordained end.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 8:13 is situated within the second major vision of the book of Daniel, following the vision of the four beasts in [Daniel 7](/daniel/7 "Daniel 7 - The Vision of the Four Beasts"). Chapter 8 presents a symbolic vision of a ram with two horns, representing the Medo-Persian Empire, and a male goat with a prominent horn, symbolizing the Greek Empire under Alexander the Great. This goat's horn is broken, and four notable horns emerge, followed by the rise of a "little horn" from one of them ([Daniel 8:9](/daniel/8-9 "Daniel 8:9 - The Little Horn's Emergence")). This "little horn" is depicted as growing exceedingly great, even challenging the "host of heaven," casting down some of the stars, and magnifying itself against the Prince of the host. Crucially, it takes away the "daily sacrifice" and casts down the place of the sanctuary, leading to the "transgression of desolation" ([Daniel 8:11-12](/daniel/8-11 "Daniel 8:11-12 - The Little Horn's Actions")). Verse 13 then serves as a direct, urgent inquiry from one angelic being to another, seeking clarification on the *duration* of this described desolation, indicating that the vision's immediate impact and future implications are of great concern in the heavenly realm, setting the stage for the revelation of God's precise timing.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "little horn" of Daniel 8 is widely interpreted by scholars as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king who reigned from 175-164 BC. Historically, Antiochus launched a brutal persecution against the Jews, attempting to Hellenize them by force. In 167 BC, he notoriously desecrated the Jerusalem Temple, halting the regular "daily sacrifice" (*tamid*) and erecting an altar to Zeus (or a pagan idol) within the Temple precincts. This act is known as the "abomination of desolation." The "sanctuary" refers to the Jerusalem Temple, the spiritual heart of Jewish worship and national identity, where God's presence was believed to dwell. The "host" (Hebrew: *tsaba*) in this context most likely refers to the "army" or "people" of God, the Jewish community, who were subjected to severe oppression, torture, and death under Antiochus's tyrannical rule. The question "How long?" reflects the deep anguish and theological crisis faced by a people whose central place of worship was defiled and whose very existence was threatened, a situation that profoundly challenged their understanding of God's covenant faithfulness and provoked a desperate longing for divine intervention.
* **Key Themes:** Daniel 8:13 contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Daniel and biblical prophecy. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty** over history, demonstrating that even the most tyrannical earthly powers operate within a divinely ordained timeline. The fact that angelic beings are discussing the duration implies a pre-determined end to the tribulation, assuring that God is in control. Secondly, it highlights the **Nature of Evil and Transgression**, specifically the audacious sin of desecrating sacred space and persecuting God's people. The "transgression of desolation" points to an act of rebellion that brings about utter spiritual and physical ruin, a profound affront to God's holiness. Thirdly, the verse expresses the **Suffering of God's People** and their longing for deliverance, a recurring motif in apocalyptic literature. The "how long" lament resonates throughout the Psalms ([Psalm 13:1](/psalm/13-1 "Psalm 13:1 - How Long, O Lord?")) and prophetic books, reflecting a universal cry for justice and restoration. Finally, Daniel 8:13 sets the stage for the revelation of **Divine Timing** in [Daniel 8:14](/daniel/8-14 "Daniel 8:14 - The 2,300 Evenings and Mornings"), where the precise duration of the desolation is revealed, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the despair and reinforcing the certainty of God's ultimate vindication and restoration of His people and His sanctuary.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **saint (Hebrew, _qâdôwsh'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to be sacred," refers to holy ones. In this context, it specifically denotes angelic beings, emphasizing their sacred nature, divine appointment, and proximity to God's presence. Their involvement in this conversation underscores the heavenly concern and awareness regarding earthly events, particularly those affecting God's people and His sanctuary.
* **vision (Hebrew, _châzôwn'_):** From the root meaning "to see," *châzôwn* signifies a sight (mentally), i.e., a dream, revelation, or oracle. Here, it refers to the entire prophetic revelation Daniel received in Chapter 8, encompassing the symbolic beasts and the actions of the "little horn." The question "How long shall be the vision?" thus inquires about the duration of the events *depicted* in the vision, highlighting their future, unfolding nature and the period of suffering they represent.
* **transgression (Hebrew, _peshaʻ'_):** This word denotes a revolt, rebellion, sin, or trespass. It implies a deliberate act of defiance against God or His covenant. When paired with "desolation," as in "transgression of desolation," it describes a specific, egregious act of rebellion that results in utter ruin, devastation, and spiritual barrenness, particularly in relation to the defilement of the sanctuary and the cessation of proper worship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then I heard one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain [saint] which spake,"**: This opening clause establishes the scene as a divine colloquy. Daniel, the recipient of the vision, overhears a conversation between two angelic beings. The use of "saint" (*qâdôwsh*) for these heavenly figures emphasizes their holy nature and their role as messengers or participants in divine counsel. The phrase "that certain [saint]" (*palmôwnîy*) implies a specific, though unnamed, individual, adding a sense of authenticity and directness to the overheard dialogue and highlighting the profound importance of the subject matter.
* **"How long [shall be] the vision [concerning] the daily [sacrifice],"**: This is the core question, expressing an urgent plea for understanding the duration of the suffering and desolation. "How long" is a common lament in biblical literature, signifying a period of prolonged distress and a yearning for divine intervention and the restoration of justice. The "daily sacrifice" (*tâmîyd*) refers to the regular, prescribed burnt offerings in the Jerusalem Temple, which were central to Israelite worship and atonement. Its cessation signifies a profound disruption of covenant worship and a spiritual crisis for the people of God.
* **"and the transgression of desolation,"**: This phrase specifies the nature of the crisis. The "transgression" (*peshaʻ*) is an act of rebellion or apostasy, while "desolation" (*shâmêm*) implies utter ruin or devastation. Together, "the transgression of desolation" refers to the specific sacrilegious act that causes the Temple's defilement and the subsequent spiritual and physical ruin, historically linked to Antiochus IV Epiphanes' actions. It is an act so egregious it brings about utter devastation.
* **"to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot?"**: This final clause describes the consequences of the transgression. "To give" (*nâthan*) here means to hand over or allow. The "sanctuary" (*qôdesh*) is the holy Temple, the sacred dwelling place of God, and the "host" (*tsâbâʼ*) refers to God's people, the Jewish community, who are likened to an army or multitude. "Trodden under foot" (*mirmâç*) is a powerful metaphor for extreme subjugation, disrespect, and humiliation, signifying conquest, oppression, and defilement. The question thus asks about the total duration of this period of sacrilege, intense oppression, and profound suffering for both God's holy place and His chosen people.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 8:13 employs several potent literary devices that amplify its theological and emotional impact. The primary device is **Dialogue**, as the verse presents a direct conversation between two angelic beings. This allows for the urgent question "How long?" to be posed, reflecting not only Daniel's unstated concern but also the deep concern within the heavenly realm regarding the unfolding events. This dialogue also serves to build **Suspense**, as the answer to this critical question is withheld until the subsequent verse ([Daniel 8:14](/daniel/8-14 "Daniel 8:14 - The Duration of the Vision")), compelling the reader to anticipate the divine revelation. While not explicitly in verse 13, the terms "daily sacrifice," "sanctuary," and "host" are laden with rich **Symbolism**, representing the core of Israelite worship, their sacred space, and their identity as God's covenant people. The phrase "trodden under foot" is a vivid **Metaphor** for extreme oppression, humiliation, and desecration, commonly used in prophetic literature to describe the subjugation of a conquered people or a defiled holy place. Finally, the entire verse functions as a **Rhetorical Question** that underscores the magnitude of the suffering and the longing for divine intervention, setting up the subsequent divine revelation of the precise timeline for the end of the desolation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 8:13 stands as a profound theological statement, affirming that even in the darkest hours of human history, God's heavenly court is fully aware and deeply concerned with the suffering of His people and the desecration of His holy name and dwelling place. The "how long" question echoes the cries of the righteous throughout scripture who yearn for divine justice and the end of oppression, demonstrating that suffering is not limitless but operates within a divinely appointed timeframe. This verse highlights the enduring conflict between good and evil, particularly the audacious nature of sin that seeks to defile what is sacred and oppress God's chosen. It also foreshadows a pattern of "abomination of desolation" that recurs in biblical prophecy, pointing to ultimate end-time events. The question implicitly trusts in God's ultimate sovereignty and His commitment to restore justice and purity, even when the means and timing are initially hidden, thereby offering a foundational hope amidst despair.

* [Matthew 24:15](/matthew/24-15 "Matthew 24:15 - The Abomination of Desolation")
* [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 - The Man of Lawlessness")
* [Revelation 11:2](/revelation/11-2 "Revelation 11:2 - The Holy City Trodden Down")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 8:13 offers profound spiritual nourishment for believers navigating times of distress and uncertainty. The angelic "how long" resonates with our own questions when we witness injustice, spiritual decline, or personal hardship that seems to stretch endlessly. This verse reminds us that our struggles are not unnoticed in the heavenly realms; indeed, the very angels of God are concerned with the duration of suffering and the desecration of truth and holiness. It calls us to cultivate a steadfast hope, knowing that even the most formidable evil has a divinely appointed limit. We are encouraged to persevere in faith, even when the "sanctuary" of our spiritual lives or the "host" of the church seems to be "trodden under foot" by worldly pressures or spiritual attacks. Just as an answer was given to Daniel, we can trust that God has a timeline for all things, and His ultimate plan for redemption and restoration will prevail. Our role is to remain faithful, to pray for justice, and to stand firm against any "transgression of desolation" that seeks to defile what is holy or oppress the people of God, always remembering that God's ultimate victory is assured.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "how long" questions are you currently wrestling with in your personal life or in observing the world around you?**
* **How does the knowledge that even angels are concerned with the duration of suffering impact your perspective on your own trials and the trials of the church?**
* **In what ways might the "sanctuary" (your body as a temple, your church, your community) or the "host" (God's people) be "trodden under foot" in our contemporary context, and how are we called to respond with faithfulness?**
* **How does Daniel 8:13 encourage you to trust in God's timing and ultimate sovereignty, even when circumstances seem bleak and the path forward is unclear?**

### FAQ

**Who are the "saints" mentioned in Daniel 8:13?**

Answer: In this context, the "saints" (Hebrew: *qâdôwsh*) refer to holy ones, specifically angelic beings. The book of Daniel frequently depicts angelic interaction and revelation, and these "saints" are part of the heavenly host, privy to God's divine plans and actively involved in the unfolding of prophetic events. Their conversation underscores the divine awareness and concern regarding the earthly events described in the vision, particularly those affecting God's people and His holy sanctuary.

**What is the "transgression of desolation" and its significance?**

Answer: The "transgression of desolation" (Hebrew: *peshaʻ shâmêm*) refers to a specific, egregious act of rebellion or sin that results in utter ruin, devastation, and spiritual barrenness. In the immediate historical context of Daniel 8, it primarily points to the actions of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who desecrated the Jerusalem Temple by halting the daily sacrifices and erecting a pagan idol or altar within its sacred precincts in 167 BC. This act was a profound spiritual and physical defilement, causing immense suffering and marking a period of intense oppression for the Jewish people. Theologically, it represents the ultimate affront to God's holiness and covenant. This event also serves as a prophetic type, foreshadowing future "abominations of desolation" mentioned by Jesus in [Matthew 24:15](/matthew/24-15 "Matthew 24:15 - The Abomination of Desolation") and by Paul in [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 - The Man of Lawlessness"), pointing to climactic end-time events that will precede the return of Christ.

**Does Daniel 8:13 have any relevance beyond its historical fulfillment in Antiochus Epiphanes?**

Answer: Absolutely. While Daniel 8 has a clear historical fulfillment in Antiochus IV Epiphanes, biblical prophecy often operates on multiple levels of fulfillment. Many scholars view Antiochus as a "type" or foreshadowing of a greater, future "abomination of desolation" that will occur at the end of the age. Jesus Himself references the "abomination of desolation spoken of by Daniel the prophet" in [Matthew 24:15](/matthew/24-15 "Matthew 24:15 - The Abomination of Desolation"), connecting it to events preceding His second coming. This suggests that the themes of desecration, the cessation of true worship, the persecution of God's people, and a divinely appointed limit to evil are enduring prophetic patterns that will culminate in a final, climactic fulfillment before Christ's return. Thus, Daniel 8:13 serves as a warning, a source of hope, and a call to vigilance for all generations, reminding us that God's ultimate plan will prevail.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 8:13, with its anguished question concerning the duration of desecration and suffering, finds its ultimate answer and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "daily sacrifice" that was halted and defiled pointed forward to the true and final sacrifice—Jesus Himself—whose perfect, once-for-all offering on the cross forever superseded the need for animal sacrifices ([Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10-14 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). His body became the ultimate "sanctuary," which was indeed "trodden under foot" through His crucifixion and death, yet raised in three days, demonstrating His decisive victory over sin and death ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts the Temple's Destruction")). The "transgression of desolation" represents the epitome of human rebellion and evil; Christ, through His atoning work, conquered this very transgression, disarming the powers of darkness that seek to desolate humanity and God's creation ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities")). Furthermore, the "host" being trodden under foot finds its ultimate reversal in Christ's establishment of His Church, His new "host," which, though it experiences persecution, is ultimately triumphant through Him, as the gates of Hades will not prevail against it ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Peter's Confession and the Church")). The "how long" lament is answered by the certainty of Christ's return, when all desolation will cease, and He will establish His eternal kingdom where there will be no need for a physical temple, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple ([Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - No Temple in New Jerusalem")). Thus, Daniel 8:13, though rooted in historical oppression, powerfully foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, who is the end of all desolation and the source of eternal restoration and true worship.

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

Revelation 11:2

But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty [and] two months.

Luke 21:24

And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.

Revelation 6:10

And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?

Daniel 9:27

And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make [it] desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

Daniel 4:13

I saw in the visions of my head upon my bed, and, behold, a watcher and an holy one came down from heaven;

Daniel 11:31

And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily [sacrifice], and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.

1 Peter 1:12

Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.