What is the context?
Gabriel gives direct names for the main symbols. The ram’s two horns are the kings of Media and Persia. The goat represents Greece, and its large horn represents the first king.
The four horns that replace the broken one are four kingdoms that arise from the same nation, though without the first king’s power.
This explanation anchors the vision in a succession of earthly kingdoms. It also shows the limits of their greatness: one power is overcome, and the next ruler’s dominion does not remain intact after him.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Henry, Wesley and Gaebelein agree on the basic identification: Media and Persia are overcome by the Greek power associated with Alexander, followed by divisions of his empire.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.