The Demand of Nebuchadnezzar
2: 1-35
ADONAI begins to reveal to Dani’el the initial revelation regarding the Times of the Gentiles (see Ao – The Times of the Gentiles). He provides an initial overview of the four empires that will govern this period. As the book progresses, God’s revelation becomes increasingly specific, reaching their climax in Chapter 12.
The genre of Chapter Two is correctly identified as a “court tale of conquest,” a contest between Dani’el and the Babylonian magi (Hebrew: chartom, refers to a magician or wise man). A conflict was initiated when King Nebuchadnezzar dreamed a dream (2:1). In the ancient world, such dreams were thought to be shadows that the future cast in front of itself, tipping its hand to show what lay ahead. The interpretation of the dream was therefore important, in order that the king might take whatever steps necessary to counteract the events the dream anticipated, or at least be ready for them. In preparation for such eventualities, many kings of the ancient Near East had special dream interpreters in their royal court, and Nebuchadnezzar was no exception. He employed a staff of magi whose job it was to interpret the significance of such dreams.40 However, the tension in this section results from the fact the magi were unable to perform their duties. Thus, opening the door for Dani’el to come forward and not only interpret the king’s dream, but to give all the glory to ADONAI.
This chapter, verses 1 through 35 can be broken down in chiastic fashion, resulting in a mirror effect as the ideas are “reflected” back in the passage: A to A, B to B, with C being the climax of the chiasm.
A. The Challenge to the Magi – 2:1-13 (As)
B. Dani’el’s Plea – 2:14-16 (At)
C. Dani’el’s Prayer – 2:17-23 (Au)
B. Dani’el’s Witness – 2:24-30 (Av)
A. The King’s Dream – 2:31-35 (Aw)
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