Commentary on Daniel 2:20

Introduction

In the Book of Daniel, particularly in chapter 2, we encounter a significant moment in the life of the prophet Daniel, where he acknowledges the sovereignty of God over wisdom and understanding. This verse encapsulates a profound theological truth about divine wisdom and its source. Below, we will summarize insights from notable public domain commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, providing a deep exploration suitable for pastors, students, and theologians.

Verse Context

Daniel 2:20 states, "Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his." This declaration comes in response to God revealing the mystery of King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream to Daniel, contrasting human limitations with divine authority.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the grateful acknowledgment of Daniel towards God. He articulates several key points:

• Divine Sovereignty: Henry notes that Daniel praises God for His eternal and unchanging nature. God is "blessed" because His wisdom and might are inherent traits that govern all creation.
• Source of Wisdom: According to Henry, wisdom is portrayed not merely as knowledge but as a functional understanding that leads to appropriate action. Daniel underscores that all wisdom and strength originate from God, which serves as a reminder for the faithful to seek guidance in their endeavors.
• Response to Revelation: Daniel’s response serves as a model of humility and gratitude. In moments of divine revelation, recognizing God as the ultimate source cultivates a heart of worship.

Albert Barnes's Commentary

Albert Barnes provides a thorough analysis of the text, emphasizing several theological implications:

• The Exalted Name of God: Barnes points out that Daniel's declaration "Blessed be the name of God" signifies an acknowledgment of God’s glory and power, emphasizing the importance of invoking God’s name in worship.
• Mysteries of God: He elaborates on the notion that the "wisdom" referenced in this verse pertains not only to knowledge but also to the ability to discern profound truths, such as the interpretations of dreams and the understanding of God's will.
• Continual Praise: The phrase "for ever and ever" illustrates the everlasting nature of God's attributes and the eternal nature of His wisdom and might, reaffirming the belief in God's ongoing involvement in human affairs.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke brings a linguistic and contextual analysis to this verse, uncovering deeper insights:

• Language and Emotion: Clarke emphasizes the emotional weight behind the expression "Blessed be" in the Hebrew context, understanding it as an act of worship filled with gratitude and reverence.
• God’s Wisdom and Might: Clarke elaborates on how "wisdom and might" reflect not only intellectual insight but also the implementation of power in governance and creation, showcasing God's control over historical and cosmic events.
• Implication for Humanity: Clarke suggests that this acknowledgment of God’s supreme wisdom and might serves as a reminder for believers to humbly approach challenges, seeking divine assistance rather than relying solely on human understanding.

Theological Themes

This verse encapsulates several theological themes important for pastoral and scholarly reflection:

• Sovereignty of God: The recognition of God’s sovereignty in imparting wisdom serves to encourage reliance on divine guidance in all decision-making processes.
• Importance of Praise: A call to praise God as a communal and personal practice enhances the believer's relationship with God, fostering a spirit of humility and gratitude in the face of life’s mysteries.
• Revelation and Understanding: The manner in which God reveals truth and understanding can motivate believers to seek deeper knowledge of Scripture and a closer relationship with God through prayer and study.

Application for Believers

For pastors, students, and scholars, Daniel 2:20 offers profound practical applications:

• Prayerful Approach: In all pursuits of knowledge and insight, believers are encouraged to approach God in prayer, acknowledging Him as the source of all wisdom.
• Worship as a Response: Regularly engaging in worship and thanksgiving is essential for maintaining a healthy spiritual life, reinforcing gratitude as a response to God's revelation.
• Trust in God’s Plan: By recognizing God's sovereignty, believers can cultivate a deeper trust in His plans, especially when faced with uncertainties or challenges.

Conclusion

Daniel 2:20 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s supremacy and the importance of recognizing His wisdom and might in our lives. The insights presented from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke enrich our understanding, urging us to cultivate a spirit of worship, seek divine assistance, and acknowledge God's eternal authority. In essence, this verse not only informs our theological framework but also shapes our daily lives as we strive to live in accordance with God’s will.