What does Daniel 7:26 mean?

In Daniel's prophetic dream (Daniel 7:1), he has been warned about a uniquely powerful nation that will dominate the entire world during the end times (Daniel 7:23). Leading this empire will be a figure who takes power from others and is known for blaspheming God and persecuting believers (Daniel 7:24–25). However, this figure will not rule forever. In fact, his time in control will be relatively short: only three and a half years. At the end of "a time, times, and half a time" (Daniel 7:25), the "little horn" (Daniel 7:7–8) will be judged by the court of heaven. God will bring this tyrant's reign of terror to an end. He will consume and destroy him and his evil empire.

This person is associated with the idea of "the Antichrist:" a Satan-empowered ruler during the end times. Some Bible interpreters suggest the figure symbolized by the "little horn" has already lived. However, no person has attained worldwide domination, overcome three major leaders, or overtly persecuted Israel for three and a half years. Other commentators suggest the "horn" refers to religious leadership, such as the Pope of the Catholic Church. Yet the "little horn" is depicted as a political leader, not a religious figure. The office of Pope has existed for many centuries, and no Pope has attained world domination.

This verse points to the judgment that befalls the beast, the "little horn," at Christ's return to earth (Revelation 19:11–21). At that time, Christ captures the beast and the false prophet, throws them both alive into the lake of fire, and slays all the beast's followers.