Daniel 7:26 (KJV)

What does Daniel 7:26 mean?

Daniel 7:26 says that a judgment will be held, and the power of the oppressive ruler will be taken away, completely destroyed, and brought to an end. This verse describes a final decision that removes authority from a specific figure and ensures that his dominion is finished for good.

In the book of Daniel, this vision is given to Daniel by God through an angel, describing events in a symbolic vision about future kingdoms. The verse comes after a description of a powerful and arrogant ruler, often called the "little horn," whose reign will ultimately be judged and ended by God. Daniel 7:26 is part of a larger prophecy showing that God’s authority is final, and no human or oppressive power can last forever.

The Aramaic behind Daniel 7:26

• "judgment" (דִּינָא, dînā’): This word means a formal decision or verdict, emphasizing that what happens is not random but a deliberate, official ruling.
• "dominion" (שָׁלְטָנֵהּ, sholtanēh): This word refers to ruling authority or sovereignty, highlighting that what is being taken away is real power and control.
• "consume" (יְהַדְּקוּן, yehaddequn): This word carries the idea of being gradually worn down or destroyed, suggesting a process, not just a single event.
• "destroy" (יְאַבְּדוּהִי, ye’abbedūhî): This word means to wipe out completely, stressing that the ruler’s power will not just be weakened but totally ended.

Why Daniel 7:26 matters

• Daniel 7:26 makes it clear that the end of the oppressive ruler’s power is not accidental—it happens by a deliberate act of judgment, showing that God is in control of history.
• The verse ties the fate of the "little horn" to a larger theme in Daniel: all human kingdoms are temporary, but God’s authority is permanent.
• Understanding the original words helps clarify that the destruction of this dominion is thorough and final, not just a temporary setback.