# Daniel Chapter 8
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## Summary
Daniel has a further vision this time of a Ram with huge horns that are broken by a Goat with a single horn that strikes the Ram. The Goats horn is broken and four further horns come up towards the four winds of heaven. From these came a smaller horn that grew even up to the heavens. This horn replaces burnt offerings but a time limitation is given for this. 
Daniel seeks to understand the vision and is advised this vision is "for the time of the end". An interpretation is offered and the vision is "sealed up". Daniel is unwell following the vision and appalled by it.

## Imagery and Theme's
By far the most abstract of the visions offered by Daniel to date and as such I have little in the way to offer of elucidation. There are again thematic ideas around the divine, the human and the bestial. With kings represented as wild beasts set in a perpetual struggle for domination. Yet there is hope present within even this disturbing passage. A foreshadowing once again of the kingdom with the promise that the sanctuary will be restored to it's rightful state.

Evidently the notion of the abolition of the burnt offerings and "abomination of desolation" the repurposing of the temple for pagan worship is such an anathema to the Israelites that Daniel becomes physically unwell in response to this revelation. Interestingly visions and prophetic dreams revealed in Daniel not only have a spiritual dimension but also a physical one. A considerable deviation from the Pauline notion that the gift of prophecy is only for the up-building of the church. I have always found the disparity between the prophets ass kicking and Paul too contrasting a distinction for comfort. At times I wonder if they even refer to the same gift.

One final reflection - I've often wondered why such fuss was made with regards to idols within the OT and the consumption of food sacrificed to idols in the NT. I suspect this may have something to do with the notion of principalities and powers. When an ideal gains sufficient power to become manifest on the earth (e.g. Athena) this ideal becomes the pursued object rather than the creator God. As such whilst principles are mute to act the living God is not. The relevance here? Kings represent the embodiment of what the culture of the time considers the ideal. Intolerable Kings and unpopular leaders tend to be removed promptly after instigation if they have not consolidated power. The UK's recent flurry of primeministers is a good example of this principle at work.