Daniel 8 Introduction

Structure and Formatting

1. Daniel sees a vision of a ram, a goat, and a horn that became great (1–14) 2. The angel Gabriel explains the vision to Daniel (15–27)

Translation issues in this chapter

The meaning of the animals in this vision

In the case of this vision, the interpretation that a figure gives to Daniel does specify what the animals represent. Gabriel tells Daniel, “The ram that you saw … is the kings of Media and Persia” (8:20) and “The male goat is the king of Javan” (that is, Greece, 8:21). There is no reason not to include this specific information in your translation. However, the identity of the king in verses 23–25 is not certain, and we recommend that you not suggest in your translation who this might be.