The "Anointed One" and the "Prince who is to Come: Daniel 9:26-27

 

In Daniel 9:26-27, the identities of the "anointed one" and the "prince who is to come" have been the subject of various interpretations, depending on theological perspectives. Here's the passage:

Daniel 9:26-27 (ESV):

"And after the sixty-two weeks, an anointed one shall be cut off and shall have nothing. And the people of the prince who is to come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. Its end shall come with a flood, and to the end there shall be war. Desolations are decreed. And he shall make a strong covenant with many for one week, and for half of the week he shall put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate, until the decreed end is poured out on the desolator."

Interpretations:

The Anointed One:

Traditional Christian Interpretation: Many Christian scholars identify the "anointed one" as Jesus Christ. The term "anointed" (which translates to "Messiah" in Hebrew and "Christ" in Greek) is seen as a reference to Jesus, who was "cut off" (crucified) and had "nothing" (his death was seen as a moment of apparent defeat).

Jewish Interpretation: Some Jewish scholars see the "anointed one" as a reference to a high priest or a king, possibly someone like the High Priest Onias III, who was killed around 171 BC.

The Prince Who Is to Come:

Traditional Christian Interpretation: The "prince who is to come" is often interpreted as a future ruler or leader associated with the Roman Empire, which was responsible for the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in 70 AD. Some believe this refers specifically to Titus, the Roman general who led the siege against Jerusalem, while others see it as a reference to an antichrist figure in the end times.

Alternative Interpretations: Some view this "prince" as a more symbolic figure representing any ruler or power that opposes God's people, leading to destruction and desolation.

 Summary:

Anointed One: Generally interpreted as either a reference to Jesus Christ in Christian theology or as a significant priestly or royal figure in Jewish history.

Prince Who Is to Come: Typically seen as a reference to a leader associated with the destruction of Jerusalem, possibly linked to the Roman Empire or an eschatological figure in Christian interpretations.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 10 Book of Mark