Apocalyptic literature demands a literary evaluation of the readerâs presuppositions. This literature is so ambiguous that many interpretive stances are possible and defensible. In trying to sort out my own perspective several foundational questions must be explored. 1. How are OT apocalypses related to OT prophecies? 2. What is the source of apocalyptic thought and form? 3. Is the new age (1) earthly and physical or (2) spiritual and multidimensional? Does this planet remain the focal point of all creation? 4. Do these specific texts relate to events now past only (e.g. Persian period, Maccabean period, Roman period, the incarnation) or future events (e.g. the Second Coming, millennium, eternal kingdom), or both, by the use of multi-fulfillment prophecy (e.g. Isa. 7: 14)? 5. Why are some texts so seemingly historically specific (Dan. 11) and others ambiguous (Dan. 8)? 6. Is the main issue the defense of the historical setting of the author or the historical accuracy of the future predictions? These hermeneutical interpretive questions must take precedence over exegesis. The books of Daniel and Zechariah form the OT basis for several NT books. Part of the "You Can Understand the Bible"^TM series. For more of Dr. Utley's Bible study guides, go to www.freebiblecommentary.org.