"And my original question remains: Can we REALLY know what the "mark" is unless we understand WHO or WHAT the "beast" is? Daniel? Revelation? Anybody?"
I'd continue on with my opinions/questions/thoughts on the matter IF no one else wants to respond to the Daniel/Revelation challenge ... and IF there is a sincere interest and willingness to discuss (and help) each other with the subject.
Edited to add: I just wanted to see what others have to say in relation to the "mark of the beast" along with the references in Daniel and Revelation before I share my take on it.