Old Testament

Daniel 7:5

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this vision, Daniel sees a second beast that resembles a bear.

Author
Daniel the prophet
Written
Around 530 BC
Genre
Prophecy and apocalyptic
Original Audience
Exiled Jews and future generations
CBTClear Bible Translation

Then a second beast appeared, one that looked like a bear. It was raised up on one side, with three ribs clenched between its teeth. They said to it, 'Get up! Devour much flesh.'

KJVKing James Version

And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this vision, Daniel sees a second beast that resembles a bear. This bear is not just any bear; it stands up on one side, suggesting a sense of power and dominance. The three ribs in its mouth symbolize the nations or kingdoms it has conquered. The command to the bear, 'Get up! Devour much flesh,' indicates its aggressive nature and insatiable appetite for power. This imagery reflects the harsh realities of empires that rise and consume others in their quest for control. The bear's posture and the ribs highlight the idea of strength and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Daniel's vision serves as a reminder of the struggles between nations and the impact of their actions on the world stage. It invites us to reflect on the nature of power and the responsibilities that come with it, urging us to consider how we engage with the world around us and the choices we make in pursuit of our goals. Understanding this vision can help us navigate our own ambitions with wisdom and caution. Explore related authority.

How to apply Daniel 7:5 to your life

This passage encourages us to reflect on our own ambitions and the impact they have on others. As we pursue our goals, we should consider the consequences of our actions. Striving for success is important, but we must do so with integrity and respect for those around us. Let this vision remind us to balance ambition with responsibility and compassion in our lives. We can achieve our dreams without trampling on others in the process.

Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Daniel 7:5 mean?

Daniel 7:5 describes a vision of a second beast that looks like a bear, symbolizing a powerful empire. The bear's raised posture and the three ribs in its mouth represent its dominance and the nations it has conquered.

What is the significance of the bear in Daniel 7:5?

The bear in Daniel 7:5 signifies strength and aggression, reflecting an empire's insatiable desire for power. Its posture and the ribs symbolize the nations it has devoured in its quest for dominance.

What does 'devour much flesh' mean in Daniel 7:5?

The phrase 'devour much flesh' indicates the bear's aggressive nature and its relentless pursuit of power. It reflects the idea of empires consuming others in their quest for control.

How does Daniel 7:5 relate to themes of power and responsibility?

Daniel 7:5 highlights the themes of power and ambition by showing the consequences of unchecked desires for dominance. It serves as a reminder to balance ambition with responsibility and consider the impact of our actions on others.

The Book of Daniel
Book Summary

The Book of Daniel

Daniel 1: Daniel and His Friends in Babylon

In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon comes unto Jerusalem and besieges it. The Lord gives Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God, which he carries into the land of Shinar to the house of his god. The king speaks unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes; children in whom is no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as have ability in them to stand in the king's palace, whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. The king appoints them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank, so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king. Among these are of the children of Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The prince of the eunuchs gives them names: unto Daniel he gives the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.

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