Hebrew language question for Daniel 8:23

[Aaron 1517]

I have a couple questions regarding Daniel 8:23. If you have a good understanding of the Hebrew language, then please help me to understand. The verse in English says:

“And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up.”

Question 1 - In Hebrew is it certain that the word “kingdom” is singular in verse 23 and not the plural form which would be the word “kingdoms” ?

The 4 horns are 4 "kingdoms" (v22). Thus, I would expect it to say “their kingdoms.” But, since it says “kingdom” I am thinking that it might point to the horn which grows exceedingly great to the South, to the East, and to the glorious land.

Question 2 - Using a Concordance I can see the Hebrew word for “latter” and the Hebrew word for “kingdom” but I do not see the word “their” as in “latter time of their kingdom.” Could this verse be translated as “And in the latter kingdom, when the transgressors ...”?

Please no arguments concerning Antiochus Epiphanes. I just want to focus on exactly what the Hebrew can or cannot say. Thanks.

[Gregory Matthews]

My knowledge of Hebrew is not at the level  where I want to comment.  However, you might find the following to be of interest on this aspect of your question:

https://biblehub.com/text/daniel/8-23.htm

The following are examples as to how that verse has been translated:

KJV:  "... time of their kingdom. . ."

NKJV:  ". . . time of their kingdom. . ."

NIV:  ". . . later part of their reign. . ."

LB:   ". . . end of their kingdoms. . ."

NRSV:   ". . . end of their rule. . ."

 

[phkrause]

Here's how the Complete Jewish Bible and the Online Tanakh translate this verse

CJB: 23 In the latter part of their reign, when the evildoers have become as evil as possible, there will arise an arrogant king skilled in intrigue.

Online Tanakh: 23 And at the end of their kingdom, when the transgressors have been destroyed, there will arise a brazen-faced king who understands riddles.

[Aaron 1517]

Thank you for your input.  I have already seen many different English interpretations of this verse, but still there remains the question concerning if it is possible for the Hebrew to allow an interpretation of "latter kingdom," and if not, then why not.  I need to find someone with a good understanding of Hebrew to fill me in on the intricate details.

 

[stinsonmarri]

21 hours ago, Aaron 1517 said:

I have a couple questions regarding Daniel 8:23. If you have a good understanding of the Hebrew language, then please help me to understand. The verse in English says:

“And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up.”

Question 1 - In Hebrew is it certain that the word “kingdom” is singular in verse 23 and not the plural form which would be the word “kingdoms” ?

The 4 horns are 4 "kingdoms" (v22). Thus, I would expect it to say “their kingdoms.” But, since it says “kingdom” I am thinking that it might point to the horn which grows exceedingly great to the South, to the East, and to the glorious land.

Question 2 - Using a Concordance I can see the Hebrew word for “latter” and the Hebrew word for “kingdom” but I do not see the word “their” as in “latter time of their kingdom.” Could this verse be translated as “And in the latter kingdom, when the transgressors ...”?

Please no arguments concerning Antiochus Epiphanes. I just want to focus on exactly what the Hebrew can or cannot say. Thanks.
 

Greetings Brother Aaron: I have studied Hebrew and I like various Lexicons.

A Lexicon is similar to a dictionary, although it usually deals with an ancient language. Ancient languages vocabularies are special and unique because the authors have an in-depth study into a particular field of study called linguistics. The uniqueness of the lexicon is the total stock of ancient words and word elements that carry meaning. Today we have shades of meaning and during the middle ages, many ancient words were changed even today.

Like Pastor Matthew, I like Biblehub.com too, but I use the lexicon and not the various Bible translations because you want to understand exactly what is meant!

The first question you asked: “In Hebrew is it certain that the word “kingdom” is singular in verse 23 and not the plural form which would be the word “kingdoms?” Actually, the word is “mal·chu·tam,” it comes from the root word “meh'-lek.” It means “royalty, royal power,” and yes it is singular. If you notice in verse 9 is the clue. The story is about the horn which grows exceedingly great to the South, to the East, and to the glorious land. This is what you spoke of and you are correct!

The second question you asked: Using a Concordance I can see the Hebrew word for “latter” and the Hebrew word for “kingdom” but I do not see the word “their” as in “latter time of their kingdom.” Could this verse be translated as “And in the latter kingdom, when the transgressors ...?” Let say this, certain words we use today has to do with our grammar structure. Their grammar structure was different. The word “their” is a possessive pronoun which is used for ownership. So again we are talking about one particular kingdom of the horn which was exceedingly great. In "their" kingdom is referring to the people of this horn kingdom, who will have a fierce and dark king and the people have become transgressors! Remember any kingdom is made up of people and the Old King English languages claim these people as ownership. The kingdom of Rome went from a Republic to an Empire in 31 BC under Augustus! I hope this has helped you to understand the verse better. 

 Happy Sabbath and blessings!