2. Resembling a Bear

The second beast resembled a bear. This signifies that it was not as strong and swift as the lion but that it was still fierce and cruel.

3. Raising Up on One Side

This beast raised up on one side. This signifies that Media and Persia became one dominion.

4. Three Ribs Being
in Its Mouth between Its Teeth

Three ribs were in its mouth between its teeth. This signifies that three kingdoms, Babylon, Asia Minor, and Egypt, were devoured by it.

5. Being Commanded
to Arise and Devour Much Flesh

The second beast was commanded to arise and devour much flesh. This signifies that it would devour more nations.

E. The Third Beast

1. Corresponding to the Abdomen
and Thighs of Bronze of the Great Human Image

The third beast (7:6) corresponds to the abdomen and thighs of bronze of the great human image in 2:32, 39b, signifying Greece with its king, Alexander the Great.

2. Like a Leopard

The third beast was like a leopard. This signifies that it was fierce, cruel, and swift (Hab. 1:8a).

3. Having Four Wings of a Bird on Its Back

This beast had four wings of a bird on its back. This signifies that it was swift by means of its four generals, like a bird with four wings.