THE LION

The Lion standing opposite to the head of gold, is a symbol of the same power, namely, the kingdom of Babylon. A ravenous wild beast is the fittest symbol to show the character of an unsanctified earthly government. The lion, the king of beasts, best represents Babylon the king of empires. But the lion, as produced in nature crouching in his lurking places and springing upon his prey, does not in this respect accurately symbolize the aggressive character of that power; hence inspiration departs from nature and gives the lion two wings as of an eagle, to denote the rapidity of its conquests. It existed, as seen in the head of gold, from B.C. 677, to 538, one hundred and thirty-nine years.KPC 13.1