Daniel 2:47 KJV

The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth it is, that your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret.

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Daniel 2:47 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Daniel 2:47

Verse: "The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth it is, that your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret."

Introduction

This verse captures a pivotal moment in the narrative of Daniel, where King Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges the sovereignty and power of the God of Israel. This acknowledgment is significant, especially considering the context of the Babylonian empire, where polytheism was prevalent. In analyzing this verse, we draw insights from various public domain commentaries to enrich our understanding.

The Divine Revelation

Daniel 2:47 follows the unfolding of a divine revelation given to Daniel regarding King Nebuchadnezzar's dream. This revelation not only highlights Daniel’s exceptional insight but also underscores the supremacy of God over all earthly powers. Matthew Henry notes that this dramatic moment shows how God can elevate His servants and reveal His glory even among worldly rulers.

The Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty

King Nebuchadnezzar’s proclamation is critical. He refers to Daniel's God as "a God of gods" and "a Lord of kings." Albert Barnes emphasizes that such titles indicate the absolute supremacy of Daniel’s God over other deities and rulers. It is a clear rejection of the Babylonian pantheon and a recognition of God's ultimate authority.

The Role of the Revealer

The phrase "a revealer of secrets" speaks specifically to God's role in illuminating mysteries that are beyond human comprehension. Adam Clarke explains that this not only refers to the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream but also emphasizes God's omniscience and His relational dynamic with humanity. God chooses to disclose truths to His faithful servants, demonstrating His sovereignty and grace.

Implications for Believers

This acknowledgment from a pagan king serves as a powerful testament for believers. It reassures them that God operates in the affairs of nations and can influence even the hearts of kings. Pastors and theologians might find that this scenario is a reminder to the church that, despite the cultural and political chaos of the world, God's presence is active, and He reigns supreme.

  • Trust in God's Sovereignty: Believers can take comfort in the fact that God is ultimately in control, regardless of the apparent chaos around them.
  • Call to Faithfulness: Daniel’s faithfulness led to the revelation of God's truth. This serves as an encouragement for believers to remain steadfast in their faith amidst trials.

Conclusion

Daniel 2:47 serves as a profound reminder of God's supreme authority and His faithfulness in revealing His truth to able servants like Daniel. It encourages believers to acknowledge God’s power in their own lives and to trust in His wise governance of the world. As noted in various commentaries, the narrative of Daniel stands as a testament to the faithfulness of God and His ability to orchestrate events for His glory and purpose.