SUMMARY
These verses describe the consequences of Nebuchadnezzar’s pride. The dire predictions made by DanielAn interpreter of dreams who was delivered from the lions' den. More come true, because the king was not responsive to Daniel’s command to change his ways (v. 27). After being transformed into a hybrid, monstrous creature, the king finally comes to his senses after lifting his eyes to the source of his life and authority, heaven itself (v. 34).
NebuchadnezzarBabylonian king who conquered Jerusalem, destroyed the Temple, and exiled the people. More then breaks into poetic praise of the “Most High” whose kingdom endures forever (v. 34). Given his change of heart, the king’s reason, splendor, and authority are all restored to him. Once again, Nebuchadnezzar forgot the lessons of the past (see especially chapters 2-3), and is required to recognize that his sovereignty is a gift of God (v. 25).
ANALYSIS
Like other stories in Daniel, this one describes the education of a king at the hands of Daniel and his God. Once again, the lesson Nebuchadnezzar needs to learn concerns the source of his power, God. The fact that this theme has repeated itself multiple times rings true to human experience: power entices its wielders to see themselves as the sources of their own prestige and influence. Stories like this urge one to consider that all power is contingent and dependent upon factors far beyond ourselves.
