A Monster without a Name: Creating the Beast Known as Antiochus IV in Daniel 7

Abstract

The strange beasts of Daniel 7 have generated multiple investigations exploring their biblical and ancient Near Eastern backgrounds. This article focuses on the purpose served by the beastly imagery rather than its source material. Using Monster Theory, the article argues that the author intentionally embodies Antiochus IV as a monstrous being who defies moral and cultural boundaries to dehumanize him and encourage the Jewish community to anticipate divine punishment for Antiochus.