The answer is: Lion, Bear, Leopard & Terrible beast

Daniel 7:3-7

In the thrilling narrative of Daniel 7, we encounter a unique vision that captures the imagination. Daniel sees four beasts that come out of the sea, each one bursting with symbolic meaning. The first beast is a lion with wings, often linked to Babylon, which Daniel himself lived in during his time, representing strength and royalty. Imagine the pride of this mighty creature soaring above the others!

The second beast is a bear, raised on one side and with three ribs in its mouth, typically seen as a portrayal of the Medo-Persian Empire. The “bear” suggests its immense power while hinting at some internal imbalance, possibly reflecting the instability within the conquered territory.

Next appears the leopard, notably swift and fierce, adorned with four wings and four heads, which is often thought to represent the Grecian empire under Alexander the Great. The swiftness points to how quickly he conquered vast lands!

Then comes the scariest of all, the “Terrible beast” – the gruesome depiction of an empire (generally interpreted as Rome) set apart from all the others due to its dreadful strength and precarious power, reminding us that dominions can be hideous no matter how mighty they claim to be.

This passage not only showcases prophetic visions but also resonates within the larger biblical narrative, echoing themes of divine sovereignty over kingdoms and the transitory nature of earthly power. So, beware, lessons echo through time about humility versus might!