What does Daniel 7:21 mean?

In his prophetic vision (Daniel 7:1), Daniel saw nations and kings represented by animals (Daniel 7:2–8). When asking for further information, Daniel gives more details about what he saw. The most striking image of his dream was the fourth beast, whose ten horns were disrupted by the appearance of a "little horn" (Daniel 7:8) which overpowered three of the others. Here, this same "horn," which presumably spoke strong words of blasphemy, also successfully persecuted God's people, referred to as "saints."

Bible interpreters vary on their views of the "end times." Many, however, believe there will be an intense period of persecution and worldwide trouble known as the "tribulation." This time is often associated with a figure known as "the Antichrist." This world leader will persecute Christians and enact terrible violence against them. He will seize control of the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem and his forces will rule Jerusalem for three and a half years (Revelation 11:2). In His Olivet Discourse, Jesus predicted this, which He called unprecedented great persecution (Matthew 24:21). He advised: "Let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains" (Matthew 24:16).

This Antichrist will be empowered by Satan, the Devil, referred to as a great red dragon with seven heads and ten horns in Revelation 12:3. Satan will vent his wrath on the Jewish people by using the Antichrist and worldly power to hunt down the Jews. However, many saved Jews will flee to the wilderness, where they will be kept safe for three and a half years (Revelation 12:1–17).

Satan and the Antichrist will only "prevail" over God's people for a short while. Ultimately, Christ will return (Revelation 19:11–16) and evil will be eliminated forever (Revelation 20:7–15). As the following verse notes, God will not allow His people to be held captive forever (Daniel 7:22).