What does Daniel 7:23 mean?

In Daniel's prophetic dream (Daniel 7:1), he was shown images of creatures which mostly resembled animals (Daniel 7:2–6). The fourth and final beast, however, was terrifying and strange (Daniel 7:7). Daniel observed a small horn emerging from ten others (Daniel 7:8) to make war on God's people (Daniel 7:20–22). Daniel has been asking for an explanation of his vision (Daniel 7:16, 19). In this verse, an angelic interpreter gives insight into the meaning of these symbols.

The fourth beast represents a unique kingdom on earth. In Nebuchadnezzar's dream, the fourth kingdom (Daniel 2:40) was Imperial Rome. However, that empire did not control the entire world or all people. Unlike Imperial Rome, the nation represented in Daniel's vision will bring conquest and devastation to the entire earth. This worldwide government will be under the rule of the beast that rises from the sea (Revelation 13:1). Revelation 13:7– 8 says, "And authority was given [to the beast] over every tribe and people and language and nation, and all who dwell on earth will worship it." According to that passage, the only people who refuse to worship the beast are those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life. According to Revelation 12:11, those who become believers in the tribulation will overcome the Devil who empowers the beast.