The Dual Nature of Power
In biblical imagery, the beasts used to describe kingdoms emphasize the dual nature of power—greatness, royal dignity, and simultaneously, uncompromising ferocity. This indicates that even if state power appears official and often exalted, its underlying actions may be driven by instinctive, animalistic traits capable of leading to destruction and violence. Thus, the symbolism of beasts in Scripture is intended not only to demonstrate the strength and might of kingdoms but also to reveal their inner nature—a sort of latent, ballistic potential inherent in earthly authority which, despite its outward solemnity, cannot ignore its bestial aspects.As noted in one of the sources:"Here the subject of discussion is the kingdom; to it a sensual image is given. And this is quite appropriate. Since the properties of kingdoms are especially clearly manifested in beasts, they were needed for the prophet. He wanted to show splendor combined with ferocity, and presented a lioness; he wanted to show slowness, and presented a she-bear; he wanted to show speed and agility, and the destruction of all powers through wars, and presented a lynx. … Thus, Scripture often calls the king a lion, seeking to portray royal dignity combined with bestial traits." (source: link txt)This quote demonstrates that animal imagery is used to underscore both the grandeur and the inherent danger of power, conveying the idea that even divinely bestowed authority is not free from the traits associated with animals—swift, unpredictable, and sometimes unbridled impulses. Such symbolism highlights the profound link between the material aspects of statehood and its spiritual dimensions, suggesting that a true understanding of power requires recognizing not only its external legitimacy but also the internal, "living" source of strength that originates from a higher order.