For a time, Daniel, who was also known as Belteshazzar, was perplexed, and his thoughts alarmed him. So the king said, "Belteshazzar, do not let the dream or its interpretation alarm you." "My lord," replied Belteshazzar, "may the dream apply to those who hate you, and its interpretation to your enemies! For a timeThis phrase indicates a pause, a moment of contemplation and emotional response. In the Hebrew context, it suggests a significant period where Daniel is processing the gravity of the dream. This pause reflects the weight of the revelation and the compassion Daniel feels for King Nebuchadnezzar, despite the king's pagan status. Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar
The dual naming here highlights Daniel's identity in both his Hebrew roots and his Babylonian context. "Daniel" means "God is my judge," reflecting his faith and heritage. "Belteshazzar," given by the Babylonians, means "Bel protect the king," showing the cultural assimilation and the expectation placed upon him to serve the Babylonian empire. This duality underscores the tension between his faith and his role in a foreign land. was appalled
The Hebrew root for "appalled" conveys a sense of being stunned or horrified. Daniel's reaction is not just intellectual but deeply emotional, indicating the severity of the dream's implications. This response shows his empathy and the seriousness with which he approaches his prophetic role. his thoughts alarmed him
The phrase suggests an inner turmoil and distress. The Hebrew word for "alarmed" can also mean "terrified" or "troubled," indicating that Daniel's understanding of the dream's meaning is profoundly unsettling. This reflects the prophetic burden and the responsibility he feels in delivering God's message. So the king said
This indicates King Nebuchadnezzar's awareness of Daniel's distress. The king's initiative to speak shows a level of respect and trust in Daniel, acknowledging his wisdom and insight. It also highlights the relational dynamic between the king and his advisor, suggesting a bond that transcends mere duty. 'Belteshazzar, do not let the dream or its interpretation alarm you.'
The king's reassurance reflects his confidence in Daniel's abilities and perhaps a desire to hear the truth, regardless of its nature. This statement also reveals Nebuchadnezzar's reliance on Daniel's interpretation, showing the king's vulnerability and need for divine insight. 'My lord,' replied Belteshazzar
Daniel's respectful address to the king, using "my lord," indicates his humility and recognition of Nebuchadnezzar's authority. Despite the troubling nature of the message, Daniel maintains a posture of respect and service, embodying the biblical principle of honoring those in authority. 'may the dream apply to those who hate you, and its interpretation to your enemies!'
This wish reflects Daniel's compassion and his desire for the king's well-being, despite the impending judgment. It underscores the biblical theme of loving one's enemies and seeking their good, even when delivering difficult truths. Daniel's response is both a prayer and a hope that the negative aspects of the dream might be averted or redirected, demonstrating his deep care for Nebuchadnezzar. Persons / Places / Events 1. Daniel (Belteshazzar)A Hebrew prophet and wise man in the Babylonian court, known for his ability to interpret dreams and visions. His Babylonian name, Belteshazzar, reflects his integration into the Babylonian culture while maintaining his faith in God. 2. King NebuchadnezzarThe powerful ruler of Babylon who has a troubling dream that Daniel is called to interpret. His interactions with Daniel reveal his struggle with pride and the sovereignty of God. 3. BabylonThe setting of the account, a significant empire known for its wealth, power, and influence. It serves as a backdrop for God's demonstration of His sovereignty over earthly kingdoms. 4. The DreamA divine message given to Nebuchadnezzar, which Daniel is tasked with interpreting. It symbolizes God's control over human affairs and the consequences of pride. 5. Interpretation of DreamsA recurring theme in the Book of Daniel, highlighting God's communication with humanity and His use of His servants to reveal His will. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty Over NationsDaniel's ability to interpret the dream underscores God's control over earthly kingdoms and leaders. Believers can trust that God is sovereign over all circumstances. The Danger of PrideNebuchadnezzar's account serves as a warning against pride. Christians are reminded to remain humble and recognize God's authority in their lives. Faithfulness in a Foreign LandDaniel's steadfast faith in a pagan culture encourages believers to maintain their convictions and witness for God, regardless of their environment. The Role of God's ServantsLike Daniel, believers are called to be vessels through which God communicates His truth, requiring courage and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Compassionate Truth-TellingDaniel's respectful yet honest approach to delivering difficult news to Nebuchadnezzar models how Christians should speak truth with love and compassion. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Daniel's response to Nebuchadnezzar's dream reflect his character and faith? How can we apply this in our interactions with authority figures? 2. In what ways does the account of Nebuchadnezzar's dream challenge us to examine our own pride? What steps can we take to cultivate humility? 3. How does Daniel's role in Babylon encourage us to live out our faith in secular environments today? 4. What can we learn from Daniel about delivering difficult truths with compassion and respect? How can this be applied in our relationships? 5. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Daniel 4:19 provide comfort and assurance in the face of global or personal uncertainties? How can we practically live out this trust in our daily lives? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 41Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams parallels Daniel's role in interpreting Nebuchadnezzar's dreams, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the use of His servants to reveal divine plans. Proverbs 16:18The theme of pride leading to downfall is evident in Nebuchadnezzar's account, aligning with the biblical principle that pride precedes destruction. Acts 2:17The use of dreams and visions as a means of divine communication is consistent with the prophecy that God will pour out His Spirit, allowing people to receive messages through dreams. People Belteshazzar, Daniel, Jonah, NebuchadnezzarPlaces BabylonTopics Adversaries, Affright, Affrighted, Alarm, Alarmed, Answering, Appalled, Applied, Astonied, Astonished, Belteshazzar, Belteshaz'zar, Daniel, Dismayed, Dream, Dumb, Enemies, Greatly, Hate, Haters, Hating, Hour, Interpretation, Loss, Meaning, Moment, Mute, O, Perplexed, Replied, Responded, Sense, Spake, Spoke, Stricken, Terrified, Thereof, Thoughts, Trouble, Troubled, TroublingDictionary of Bible Themes Daniel 4:19 5815 confusion Daniel 4:1-37 1443 revelation, OT Daniel 4:19-26 1409 dream Daniel 4:19-33 5849 exaltation Library The Life of Mr. Andrew Melvil.
Mr. Melvil, after finishing his classical studies, went abroad, and taught, for some time, both at Poictiers in France, and at Geneva. He returned to Scotland in July 1574, after having been absent from his native country near ten years. Upon his return, the learned Beza, in a letter to the general assembly of the church of Scotland, said, "That the greatest token of affection the kirk of Geneva could show to Scotland, was, that they had suffered themselves to be spoiled of Mr. Andrew Melvil." Soon …
John Howie—Biographia Scoticana (Scots Worthies)Human Government.
Human governments a part of the moral government of God. In the discussion of this subject I will,-- I. Inquire into the ultimate end of God in creation. We have seen in former lectures, that God is a moral agent, the self-existent and supreme; and is therefore himself, as ruler of all, subject to, and observant of, moral law in all his conduct. That is, his own infinite intelligence must affirm that a certain course of willing is suitable, fit, and right in him. This idea, or affirmation, is law …
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology Epistle xxxi. To Phocas, Emperor .
To Phocas, Emperor [218] . Gregory to Phocas Augustus. Glory to God in the highest who, according as it is written, changes times, and transfers kingdoms, seeing that He has made apparent to all what He vouchsafed to speak by His prophet, That the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will (Dan. iv. 17). For in the incomprehensible dispensation of Almighty God there are alternate controlments of mortal life; and sometimes, when the sins of many are to be smitten, …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great The Teaching of Matthew 13 Proves that no Era of Millennial Blessing Precedes Christ's Second Advent.
In Matt. 13 we have the record of seven parables--the number of completeness--which our Lord uttered consecutively. These parables are prophetic in their significance and scope. They deal with conditions which are to obtain here during the time of our Lord's absence. They are concerned with the visible profession of Christianity and they look forward to the closing scenes of the present dispensation. As there is much in them upon which we cannot now comment at length we shall content ourselves with …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return And the Fame of Antony came Even unto Kings. ...
81. And the fame of Antony came even unto kings. For Constantine Augustus, and his sons Constantius and Constans the Augusti wrote letters to him, as to a father, and begged an answer from him. But he made nothing very much of the letters, nor did he rejoice at the messages, but was the same as he had been before the Emperors wrote to him. But when they brought him the letters he called the monks and said, Do not be astonished if an emperor writes to us, for he is a man; but rather wonder that God …
Athanasius—Select Works and Letters or Athanasius Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness, Suffering
Text: 1 Peter 5, 5-11. 5 Likewise, ye younger, be subject unto the elder. Yea, all of you gird yourselves with humility, to serve one another: for God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble. 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time; 7 casting all your anxiety upon him, because he careth for you. 8 Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 whom withstand stedfast …
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. III The Power of God
The next attribute is God's power. Job 9:19. If I speak of strength, lo, he is strong.' In this chapter is a magnificent description of God's power. Lo, he is strong.' The Hebrew word for strong signifies a conquering, prevailing strength. He is strong.' The superlative degree is intended here; viz., He is most strong. He is called El-shaddai, God almighty. Gen 17:7. His almightiness lies in this, that he can do whatever is feasible. Divines distinguish between authority and power. God has both. …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity That for the Most Part the Occupation of Government Dissipates the Solidity of the Mind.
Often the care of government, when undertaken, distracts the heart in divers directions; and one is found unequal to dealing with particular things, while with confused mind divided among many. Whence a certain wise man providently dissuades, saying, My son, meddle not with many matters (Ecclus. xi. 10); because, that is, the mind is by no means collected on the plan of any single work while parted among divers. And, when it is drawn abroad by unwonted care, it is emptied of the solidity of inward …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great King of Kings and Lord of Lords
And He hath on His vesture and on His thigh a name written, K ING OF K INGS AND L ORD OF L ORDS T he description of the administration and glory of the Redeemer's Kingdom, in defiance of all opposition, concludes the second part of Messiah Oratorio. Three different passages from the book of Revelation are selected to form a grand chorus, of which Handel's title in this verse is the close --a title which has been sometimes vainly usurped by proud worms of this earth. Eastern monarchs, in particular, …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2 Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &C.
Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &c. [1273] Seeing the chief end of all religion is to redeem men from the spirit and vain conversation of this world and to lead into inward communion with God, before whom if we fear always we are accounted happy; therefore all the vain customs and habits thereof, both in word and deed, are to be rejected and forsaken by those who come to this fear; such as taking off the hat to a man, the bowings and cringings of the body, and such other salutations of that …
Robert Barclay—Theses Theologicae and An Apology for the True Christian Divinity Destruction of Jerusalem Foretold.
^A Matt. XXIV. 1-28; ^B Mark XIII. 1-23; ^C Luke XXI. 5-24. ^a 1 And Jesus went out from the temple [leaving it to return no more], and was going on his way; and his disciples came to him ^b as he went forth ^a to show him the buildings of the temple. ^b one of his disciples saith unto him, Teacher, behold, what manner of stones and what manner of buildings! ^c 5 And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and offerings, he said [The strength and wealth of the temple roused …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Chorus of Angels
Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour and glory, and blessing! I t was a good report which the queen of Sheba heard, in her own land, of the wisdom and glory of Solomon. It lessened her attachment to home, and prompted her to undertake a long journey to visit this greater King, of whom she had heard so much. She went, and she was not disappointed. Great as the expectations were, which she had formed from the relation made her by others, …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2 Supplementary Note to Chapter ii. The Year of Christ's Birth.
The Christian era commences on the 1st of January of the year 754 of the city of Rome. That our Lord was born about the time stated in the text may appear from the following considerations-- The visit of the wise men to Bethlehem must have taken place a very few days after the birth of Jesus, and before His presentation in the temple. Bethlehem was not the stated residence of Joseph and Mary, either before or after the birth of the child (Luke i. 26, ii. 4, 39; Matt. ii. 2). They were obliged to …
William Dool Killen—The Ancient Church "Seek First the Kingdom of God," &C.
Matt. vi. 33.--"Seek first the kingdom of God," &c. It may seem strange, that when so great things are allowed, and so small things are denied, that we do not seek them. The kingdom of God and his righteousness are great things indeed, great not only in themselves, but greater in comparison of us. The things of this world, even great events, are but poor, petty, and inconsiderable matters, when compared with these. Yet he graciously allows a larger measure of these great things relating to his kingdom …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning Repentance
Then has God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.' Acts 11: 18. Repentance seems to be a bitter pill to take, but it is to purge out the bad humour of sin. By some Antinomian spirits it is cried down as a legal doctrine; but Christ himself preached it. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent,' &c. Matt 4: 17. In his last farewell, when he was ascending to heaven, he commanded that Repentance should be preached in his name.' Luke 24: 47. Repentance is a pure gospel grace. …
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments Daniel
Daniel is called a prophet in the New Testament (Matt. xxiv. 15). In the Hebrew Bible, however, the book called by his name appears not among the prophets, but among "the writings," between Esther and Ezra. The Greek version placed it between the major and the minor prophets, and this has determined its position in modern versions. The book is both like and unlike the prophetic books. It is like them in its passionate belief in the overruling Providence of God and in the sure consummation of His …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Daniel 4:19 NIVDaniel 4:19 NLTDaniel 4:19 ESVDaniel 4:19 NASBDaniel 4:19 KJV
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