In many ways what’s been mentioned so far is just a backdrop to the main focus of chapter 8 which
is the little horn that comes out of one of these four regions and grows exceedingly great towards
the south, the east and the “Glorious Land” (Israel). This little horn is also described as the “king of fierce countenance” in verse 23. Ultimately the verses appear to have a dual fulfillment. From
history we can see that Antiochus IV1, ruler of the Seleucid kingdom to the north and east of Israel from 175-164 BC appears to have fulfilled many elements of the prophecy. On the other hand the
prophecy itself states that “the vision refers to the time of the end” (v 17). Not only this but the prophecy has connections with Daniel 9:27 which Jesus refers to in Matthew 24:15 as yet future to
his time. Thus, while it is of interest to look at Antiochus IV as a pre-fulfillment, the primary meaning of the verses should probably be ascribed to events occurring at the times of the end.