Penguasa, Tuhan, dan Rakyat: Membaca Apokalips Daniel 7 sebagai Subversi

Because of its cryptic nature apocalypse Daniel 7 has been interpreted in many ways. Often it is linked to the end of time teachings. This kind of interpretation is problematic. First, while emphasizing the dark side of the prophecy, it fails to capture its main intention which is optimism toward the future. Second, apocalypse contains dualistic ideas, but, they are not supposed to be separated, let alone taking one side over the other. Apocalyptic dualism should be treated as an oscillating, always negotiating positions, tensional but creativecollisions. This article shows a reading of apocalypse that reveals dualism as an integrated entity. It also considers theological consequences of such a reading. While being placed within the world’s history, God is deeply involved in worldly drama which consists of tragedy, as well as, comedy. On the political side, this reading demonstrates that imperial history does not run by itself, but, always prones to subversive movements.