Daniel 7:25
And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.
Daniel 7:25 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, it is prophesied that a powerful figure will rise up and speak against God, seeking to change laws and times. This individual will persecute and wear out the followers of God, known as the saints of the most High. The phrase "time and times and the dividing of time" is interpreted by many as a period of three and a half years, symbolizing a time of trial and tribulation. This figure is often associated with the Antichrist in Christian eschatology, a being who opposes Christ and his followers. The verse serves as a warning to believers to remain steadfast in their faith despite persecution and challenges to their beliefs. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, God's ultimate authority and power will prevail.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of this verse is that it refers to a future individual who will rise to power and oppose God himself. The "great words against the most High" could be seen as blasphemy or arrogance towards God. The phrase "wear out the saints of the most High" suggests persecution of those who follow God. The mention of "change times and laws" may indicate an attempt to alter religious practices or laws that are in opposition to God's will. The reference to being given into the individual's hand for a specific period of time ("a time and times and the dividing of time") could symbolize a period of intense suffering or tribulation for believers. This passage has been subject to various interpretations throughout history, with some viewing it as a prophecy of a future antichrist figure or a tyrant who will oppress the faithful. Word studies on phrases such as "wear out" or "change times and laws" can provide additional insights into the significance of these actions in the context of the verse.
Daniel 7:25 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he shall speak words against the Most High, and shall wear out the saints of the Most High; and he shall think to change the times and the law; and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and half a time.
World English Bible
He shall speak words against the Most High, and shall wear out the saints of the Most High; and he shall think to change the times and the law; and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and half a time.
Douay-Rheims
And he shall speak words against the High One, and shall crush the saints of the most High: and he shall think himself able to change times and laws, and they shall be delivered into his hand until a time, and times, and half a time.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And shall speake wordes against the most High, and shall consume the Saintes of the most High, and thinke that he may change times and lawes, and they shalbe giuen into his hand, vntill a time, and times and the deuiding of time.