When the empire of Babylon was so strong and its influence so far-reaching that seemingly the most powerful foe could not take its scepter, Daniel, a man inspired by God, prophesied that it would pass away, notwithstanding its apparent magnificence, and that a second would succeed it. He prophesied also that the second empire would be succeeded by the third, and that a fourth empire should arise, more fierce, more determined, and more powerful than any kingdom that had preceded it. As strong as iron, this kingdom would subdue and break in pieces all the nations of the world.

Når Babylons rige var så stærkt og dets indflydelse var så vidtrækkende og at en tilsyneladende magtfuld fjende ikke kunne tage dets scepter, profeterede Daniel, en inspireret Guds mand, at det ville gå bort, uanset dens tilsyneladende storhed, og at en anden verden ville følge efter det. Han profeterede også at det andet rige vil efterfølges af det tredje, og at et fjerde rige ville rejse sig, mere heftigt, mere besluttet, og mægtigere end noget andet rige som var gået forud for dette. Lige så stærk som jern, ville dette rige undertrykke og bryde alverdens nationer i stykker.