Alexander’s Greek Empire 7:16 those who stood by. Angels helped Daniel understand God’s revelations (8:13–16; 9:22–27). 7:17 beasts … four. These empires depicted by the lion, bear, leopard, and bizarre animal (vv. 3–7) are Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. The “kings” are the most notable leaders over these empires, such as Nebuchadnezzar (2:37, 38), Cyrus, Alexander the Great, and finally the “little horn” (Antichrist). 7:18, 22, 27 saints. These who trusted God possess the kingdom headed