Daniel 7:22 – “Until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favor of the holy people of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom.”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
Daniel 7:22 brings a powerful moment of resolution to the tension in the vision. While the “little horn” waged war against God’s holy people and seemed to prevail (Daniel 7:21), this verse reveals the intervention of the “Ancient of Days,” a title for God. He steps in to pronounce judgment, vindicating His people and granting them possession of the eternal kingdom.
This verse emphasizes the inevitability of God’s justice and the certainty of His plan. It assures us that oppression and suffering are temporary and that God’s people will ultimately be victorious, not by their own strength, but through His sovereign authority.
Historical Context
Daniel’s vision came during the Babylonian exile, a time when the Jewish people were living under foreign domination. This promise of God’s intervention and their ultimate inheritance of His kingdom would have been a profound encouragement. It reminded them that God had not forgotten them and that their suffering had a purpose within His larger plan.
This prophecy also pointed to future events, as it foretold the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom—a hope that extends to all believers.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights God’s role as both Judge and Redeemer. The Ancient of Days does not remain distant from the struggles of His people but actively intervenes to bring justice and restoration. The phrase “pronounced judgment in favor of the holy people” reflects God’s deep commitment to His covenant and His ultimate plan to defeat evil and establish His kingdom.
It also shows that the suffering of God’s people is not the end of the story. God’s justice ensures that their faithfulness is rewarded, and His eternal kingdom replaces the temporary reign of earthly powers.
Literary Analysis
The phrase “until the Ancient of Days came” marks a turning point in the vision, shifting from the dominance of the oppressive horn to the triumph of God’s justice. The repetition of themes like judgment and the eternal kingdom ties this verse to earlier parts of the chapter, creating a sense of unity and resolution. The use of “holy people of the Most High” underscores the special relationship between God and His people, emphasizing their vindication and victory.
Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 9:7-8 – “He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity,” reflecting God’s role as a just Judge.
- Revelation 20:4 – God’s people are vindicated and reign with Christ, echoing the themes of this verse.
- Isaiah 25:8-9 – God will swallow up death forever and bring salvation to His people.
- Matthew 25:34 – Jesus invites His followers to inherit the kingdom prepared for them.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, Daniel 7:22 is a reminder of God’s ultimate justice and the certainty of His promises. It encourages us to remain faithful during trials, knowing that God sees and will vindicate His people. This verse also reassures us that God’s eternal kingdom is our ultimate inheritance, offering hope and perspective in the face of worldly challenges.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
The Ancient of Days stepping in to pronounce judgment reflects God’s love for His people. He does not allow evil to go unpunished or suffering to last forever. His love ensures that justice is not delayed indefinitely and that His people are brought into His eternal kingdom. This verse reminds us that God’s judgment is not just about punishment but about restoring what is right and lifting up those who trust in Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus fulfills the role of the Ancient of Days in this verse by bringing justice and establishing God’s kingdom. In John 5:22, Jesus declares that all judgment has been entrusted to Him. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus secures victory over sin, death, and evil, making it possible for His followers to inherit the kingdom. Revelation 11:15 celebrates this fulfillment: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Messiah, and He will reign forever and ever.”
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the promise of God’s justice in this verse give you hope during difficult times?
- What does it mean for you to live as one of the “holy people of the Most High”?
- How can this verse encourage you to trust in God’s timing, even when facing injustice or suffering?
- In what ways does Jesus’ role as Judge and Redeemer fulfill the promise of this verse?
- How can you share the hope of God’s eternal kingdom with others in your life?