Daniel 8:24
New International Version
He will become very strong, but not by his own power. He will cause astounding devastation and will succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy those who are mighty, the holy people.

New Living Translation
He will become very strong, but not by his own power. He will cause a shocking amount of destruction and succeed in everything he does. He will destroy powerful leaders and devastate the holy people.

English Standard Version
His power shall be great—but not by his own power; and he shall cause fearful destruction and shall succeed in what he does, and destroy mighty men and the people who are the saints.

Berean Standard Bible
His power will be great, but it will not be his own. He will cause terrible destruction and succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy the mighty men along with the holy people.

King James Bible
And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practise, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people.

New King James Version
His power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; He shall destroy fearfully, And shall prosper and thrive; He shall destroy the mighty, and also the holy people.

New American Standard Bible
“And his power will be mighty, but not by his own power, And he will destroy to an extraordinary degree And be successful and do as he pleases; He will destroy mighty men and the holy people.

NASB 1995
“His power will be mighty, but not by his own power, And he will destroy to an extraordinary degree And prosper and perform his will; He will destroy mighty men and the holy people.

NASB 1977
“And his power will be mighty, but not by his own power, And he will destroy to an extraordinary degree And prosper and perform his will; He will destroy mighty men and the holy people.

Legacy Standard Bible
His power will be mighty, but not by his own power, And he will destroy to an astonishing degree And succeed and do his will; He will destroy mighty men and the holy people.

Amplified Bible
“His power will be mighty, but not by his own power; And he will corrupt and destroy in an astonishing manner And [he will] prosper and do exactly as he wills; He shall corrupt and destroy mighty men and the holy people.

Christian Standard Bible
His power will be great, but it will not be his own. He will cause outrageous destruction and succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy the powerful along with the holy people.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
His power will be great, but it will not be his own. He will cause terrible destruction and succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy the powerful along with the holy people.

American Standard Version
And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper and do his pleasure; and he shall destroy the mighty ones and the holy people.

Contemporary English Version
He will gain strength, but not on his own, and he will cause terrible destruction. He will wipe out powerful leaders and God's people as well.

English Revised Version
And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper and do his pleasure: and he shall destroy the mighty ones and the holy people.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
He will become very strong, but not by his own strength. He will cause astounding destruction and will be successful in everything he does. He will destroy those who are powerful along with some holy people.

Good News Translation
He will grow strong--but not by his own power. He will cause terrible destruction and be successful in everything he does. He will bring destruction on powerful men and on God's own people.

International Standard Version
Mighty will be his skills, but not from his own abilities. He'll be remarkably destructive, will succeed, and will do whatever he wants, destroying mighty men and the holy people.

Majority Standard Bible
His power will be great, but it will not be his own. He will cause terrible destruction and succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy the mighty men along with the holy people.

NET Bible
His power will be great, but it will not be by his strength alone. He will cause terrible destruction. He will be successful in what he undertakes. He will destroy powerful people and the people of the holy ones.

New Heart English Bible
His power shall be great, but not by his own strength; and he shall cause terrible destruction, and shall succeed in whatever he does. And he shall destroy the mighty and the holy people.

Webster's Bible Translation
And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practice, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people.

World English Bible
His power will be mighty, but not by his own power. He will destroy awesomely, and will prosper in what he does. He will destroy the mighty ones and the holy people.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and his power has been mighty, and not by his own power; and he destroys wonderful things, and he has prospered, and worked, and destroyed mighty ones, and the people of the Holy Ones.

Young's Literal Translation
and his power hath been mighty, and not by his own power; and wonderful things he destroyeth, and he hath prospered, and wrought, and destroyed mighty ones, and the people of the Holy Ones.

Smith's Literal Translation
And strong his power, and not in his power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and he prospered, and did, and he destroyed the strong ones and the holy people.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And his power shall be strengthened, but not by his own force: and he shall lay all things waste, and shall prosper, and do more than can be believed. And he shall destroy the mighty, and the people of the saints,

Catholic Public Domain Version
And his advantage will be strengthened, but not by his kind of force, and other than what he will be able to trust, everything will be eradicated, and he will prosper, and he will act. And he will execute the successful and the people of the saints,

New American Bible
He shall be strong and powerful, bring about fearful ruin, and succeed in his undertaking. He shall destroy powerful peoples;

New Revised Standard Version
He shall grow strong in power, shall cause fearful destruction, and shall succeed in what he does. He shall destroy the powerful and the people of the holy ones.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; and he shall cause terrible destruction, and shall prosper and cross over and destroy the mighty and the holy people.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And his power is mighty, and not by his own power, and he will produce marvels, and he will prosper, and he shall go through and he shall destroy strong ones and people of the Holy Ones
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper and do; and he shall destroy them that are mighty and the people of the saints.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And his power shall be great, and he shall destroy wonderfully, and prosper, and practise, and shall destroy mighty men, and the holy people.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Gabriel Interprets Daniel's Vision
23In the latter part of their reign, when the rebellion has reached its full measure, an insolent king, skilled in intrigue, will come to the throne. 24His power will be great, but it will not be his own. He will cause terrible destruction and succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy the mighty men along with the holy people. 25Through his craft and by his hand, he will cause deceit to prosper, and in his own mind he will make himself great. In a time of peace he will destroy many, and he will even stand against the Prince of princes. Yet he will be broken off, but not by human hands.…

Cross References
Revelation 13:7
Then the beast was permitted to wage war against the saints and to conquer them, and it was given authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation.

Revelation 17:12-14
The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but will receive one hour of authority as kings along with the beast. / These kings have one purpose: to yield their power and authority to the beast. / They will make war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will triumph over them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and He will be accompanied by His called and chosen and faithful ones.”

2 Thessalonians 2:9-10
The coming of the lawless one will be accompanied by the working of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder, / and with every wicked deception directed against those who are perishing, because they refused the love of the truth that would have saved them.

Revelation 11:7
When the two witnesses have finished their testimony, the beast that comes up from the Abyss will wage war with them, and will overpower and kill them.

Revelation 19:19-20
Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies assembled to wage war against the One seated on the horse, and against His army. / But the beast was captured along with the false prophet, who on its behalf had performed signs deceiving those who had the mark of the beast and worshiped its image. Both the beast and the false prophet were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur.

Matthew 24:24
For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive even the elect, if that were possible.

Revelation 12:17
And the dragon was enraged at the woman and went to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus. And the dragon stood on the shore of the sea.

Revelation 13:4
They worshiped the dragon who had given authority to the beast, and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast, and who can wage war against it?”

Revelation 13:5-6
The beast was given a mouth to speak arrogant and blasphemous words, and authority to act for 42 months. / And the beast opened its mouth to speak blasphemies against God and to slander His name and His tabernacle—those who dwell in heaven.

Revelation 13:16-17
And the second beast required all people, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their forehead, / so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark—the name of the beast or the number of its name.

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4
Let no one deceive you in any way, for it will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness—the son of destruction—is revealed. / He will oppose and exalt himself above every so-called god or object of worship. So he will seat himself in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God.

Revelation 6:8
Then I looked and saw a pale green horse. Its rider’s name was Death, and Hades followed close behind. And they were given authority over a fourth of the earth, to kill by sword, by famine, by plague, and by the beasts of the earth.

Revelation 17:17
For God has put it into their hearts to carry out His purpose by uniting to give their kingdom to the beast, until the words of God are fulfilled.

Isaiah 14:13-14
You said in your heart: “I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God. I will sit on the mount of assembly, in the far reaches of the north. / I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.”

Ezekiel 28:6-9
Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: Because you regard your heart as the heart of a god, / behold, I will bring foreigners against you, the most ruthless of nations. They will draw their swords against the beauty of your wisdom and will defile your splendor. / They will bring you down to the Pit, and you will die a violent death in the heart of the seas. ...


Treasury of Scripture

And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practice, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people.

but.

Revelation 13:3-9
And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast…

Revelation 17:12,13,17
And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast…

shall prosper.

Daniel 8:12
And an host was given him against the daily sacrifice by reason of transgression, and it cast down the truth to the ground; and it practised, and prospered.

Daniel 11:36
And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.

shall destroy.

Daniel 8:10,12
And it waxed great, even to the host of heaven; and it cast down some of the host and of the stars to the ground, and stamped upon them…

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 11:31-36
And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate…

holy people.

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Astounding Cause Degree Destroy Destroyeth Destruction Devastation Extraordinary Fearful Great Holy Mighty Ones Perform Pleasure Power Practice Practise Prosper Prospered Purposing Saints Strange Strong Succeed Whatever Wonderful Wonderfully Wrought
Daniel 8
1. Daniel's vision of the ram and he goat.
13. The two thousand three hundred days of the suspension of the daily sacrifice.
15. Gabriel comforts Daniel, and interprets the vision.














His power will be great
The phrase "His power will be great" indicates a significant level of authority and influence. In the Hebrew text, the word for "power" is "koach," which often denotes strength, might, or force. This suggests that the figure being described will possess a formidable presence, capable of exerting considerable control and influence over others. Historically, this has been interpreted as a reference to a powerful ruler or empire, such as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who exerted great influence during the Hellenistic period. From a conservative Christian perspective, this can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the Antichrist, who will wield significant power in the end times.

but it will not be his own
The phrase "but it will not be his own" suggests that the power wielded by this figure is derived from another source. This implies a level of dependency or external support. In the context of biblical prophecy, this can be understood as indicating that the power is granted by God or allowed by divine providence for a specific purpose. Alternatively, it could suggest demonic influence or support, aligning with the idea of the Antichrist being empowered by Satan. This highlights the transient and ultimately subordinate nature of earthly power compared to divine sovereignty.

He will cause astounding devastation
The phrase "He will cause astounding devastation" speaks to the destructive impact of this figure's actions. The Hebrew word for "devastation" is "shachat," which conveys ruin, corruption, or destruction. This indicates that the actions of this ruler will lead to significant turmoil and suffering. Historically, Antiochus IV's persecution of the Jewish people and desecration of the temple exemplify this devastation. In a broader eschatological context, this can be seen as a warning of the chaos and destruction that will accompany the rise of the Antichrist, emphasizing the need for believers to remain steadfast in their faith.

and will succeed in whatever he does
The phrase "and will succeed in whatever he does" suggests a period of apparent triumph and effectiveness for this figure. The Hebrew word "tsalach" is used here, meaning to prosper or succeed. This indicates that, for a time, this ruler's plans and actions will meet with success, furthering his agenda. This can be seen as a test of faith for believers, as it may appear that evil is prevailing. However, from a conservative Christian perspective, this temporary success is ultimately under God's control and serves a greater purpose in the unfolding of divine prophecy.

He will destroy the mighty men
The phrase "He will destroy the mighty men" indicates that this figure will target and overcome those who are strong or influential. The Hebrew word "gibbor" is used for "mighty men," often referring to warriors or leaders. This suggests a campaign against those who might oppose or challenge his authority. Historically, this can be seen in the actions of Antiochus IV against the Jewish leaders and warriors. In an eschatological sense, it foreshadows the Antichrist's persecution of those who stand against him, emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance and reliance on God's strength.

along with the holy people
The phrase "along with the holy people" highlights the persecution of God's chosen people. The term "holy people" refers to those set apart for God's purposes, often understood as the faithful remnant of Israel or, in a broader Christian context, the Church. This persecution is a recurring theme in biblical prophecy, reflecting the spiritual battle between good and evil. It serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the call to remain faithful amidst trials. From a conservative Christian perspective, this underscores the importance of perseverance and trust in God's ultimate victory and justice.

(24) Not by his own power.--Not might, but cunning, will cause his success. (Comp. 1 Maccabees 1:10, &c.) Thus his destructive powers become astonishing.

The mighty.--No special individuals are pointed out, but rulers in general.

Verse 24. - And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practise, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people. This verse involves many difficulties, grammatical and exegetical. These difficulties may be said to be present in all the versions of this passage. The LXX. renders, "And his power shall be confirmed, and not in his strength, and he shall destroy marvellously, and prosper and do, and shall destroy the rulers and people of the saints." Theodotion is so far slavishly close to the Massoretic text; but he seems to have read qodesh, an adjective agreeing with "people," instead of qedosheem, "saints;" and he omits the negative clause. The Peshitta is very close to the Massoretic. It emphasizes the negative clause by adding denaphsho, and translates "wonders" instead of "wonderfully." Jerome, more intent on expressing what is his own interpretation of the passage than on representing- the original, translates the first heel ("power") by fortitude, and the second by viribus suis. That the power of Epiphanes was great - greater than that of his brother and immediate predecessor - is undoubted. It is also the ease that he was confirmed in his place by the Romans, though, if we are to receive the account of Appian, the direct means of his elevation to the throne was the intervention of Eumenes of Pergamus on his behalf. Thus the reference of the phrase, "not by his own power," may be to this. Little as he might brook the thought, he was but a subject-ally of the great republic. The other interpretations are

(1) that of Theodoret. Keil, Fuller, Havernick. Kranichfeld. and Moses Stuart, that the reference here is to Divine power as setting up Epiphanes to be a scourge to his people;

(2) that of von Lengerke, Kliefoth, Bevan, Behrmann, etc., not by might, but by his cunning;

(3) that of Hitzig, which combines the two - his cunning is divinely given; . . .

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
His power
כֹּחוֹ֙ (kō·ḥōw)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 3581: A small reptile (of unknown species)

will be great,
וְעָצַ֤ם (wə·‘ā·ṣam)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6105: To bind fast, close, powerful, numerous, to crunch the bones

but it
בְכֹח֔וֹ (ḇə·ḵō·ḥōw)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 3581: A small reptile (of unknown species)

will not be his own.
וְלֹ֣א (wə·lō)
Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

He will cause terrible destruction
יַשְׁחִ֖ית (yaš·ḥîṯ)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7843: Perhaps to go to ruin

and succeed
וְהִצְלִ֣יחַ (wə·hiṣ·lî·aḥ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6743: To push forward

in whatever he does.
וְעָשָׂ֑ה (wə·‘ā·śāh)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6213: To do, make

He will destroy
וְהִשְׁחִ֥ית (wə·hiš·ḥîṯ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7843: Perhaps to go to ruin

the mighty men
עֲצוּמִ֖ים (‘ă·ṣū·mîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 6099: Powerful, numerous

along with the holy
קְדֹשִֽׁים׃ (qə·ḏō·šîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 6918: Sacred, God, an angel, a saint, a sanctuary

people.
וְעַם־ (wə·‘am-)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 5971: A people, a tribe, troops, attendants, a flock


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OT Prophets: Daniel 8:24 His power shall be mighty but not (Dan. Da Dn)
Daniel 8:23
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