Daniel 2:33

KJV

His legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay.

KJV (with Strong's)

His legs {H8243} of iron {H6523}, his feet {H7271} part {H4481} of iron {H6523} and part {H4481} of clay {H2635}.

Complete Jewish Bible

its legs of iron, and its feet partly of iron and partly of clay.

Berean Standard Bible

its legs were iron, and its feet were part iron and part clay.

American Standard Version

its legs of iron, its feet part of iron, and part of clay.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 2:33 is a crucial component of Daniel's divinely revealed interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar's prophetic dream of a colossal statue. This verse specifically describes the lower extremities of the image: "His legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay." These distinct elements symbolize the characteristics and ultimate destiny of the successive world empires, culminating in a final, fragmented earthly power that precedes the establishment of God's eternal and indestructible kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 2:33 is situated within the broader narrative of Nebuchadnezzar's dream and Daniel's inspired interpretation, which begins in [Daniel 2:31](/daniel/2-31 "Daniel 2:31 - The Great Image Revealed"). The preceding verses describe the head of gold (Babylon), the breast and arms of silver (Medo-Persia), and the belly and thighs of bronze (Greece). Verse 33 introduces the fourth major kingdom, represented by iron, and its subsequent, internally divided phase, depicted by the iron and clay mixture. This verse sets the stage for the dramatic climax in [Daniel 2:34-35](/daniel/2-34 "Daniel 2:34-35 - The Stone Strikes the Image"), where a stone, cut without human hands, strikes the statue's feet, shattering the entire image and signifying the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over all earthly powers. The interpretation continues through [Daniel 2:45](/daniel/2-45 "Daniel 2:45 - The Interpretation of the Stone Kingdom"), providing a comprehensive prophetic timeline.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Nebuchadnezzar, the powerful ruler of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, experienced a disturbing dream that his wise men could not interpret, leading to a decree for their execution. Daniel, a Jewish exile, interceded and received divine revelation of both the dream and its meaning, thereby demonstrating the supremacy of the God of Israel over all earthly wisdom and power. Prophetic dreams were a recognized means of divine communication in the ancient Near East, often conveying messages about the future of kingdoms and rulers. The concept of successive empires was also present in ancient historiography, but Daniel's prophecy is unique in its precise foretelling of the nature and sequence of these empires, emphasizing their eventual decline and the ultimate establishment of a divine kingdom. The imagery of various metals declining in value from gold to iron and clay reflects a common ancient perception of historical periods.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Daniel and biblical prophecy. Firstly, it highlights the **divine sovereignty** over human history, demonstrating that God is the one who "removes kings and sets up kings" ([Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms")). Secondly, it underscores the **impermanence and ultimate fragility of human empires**, regardless of their initial strength. The progression from precious metals to iron and then a brittle mixture illustrates a decline in unity and stability, even as raw power might increase. Thirdly, it introduces the theme of **eschatological fulfillment**, pointing toward a final, fragmented earthly power that will exist immediately before the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. This vision provides a sweeping overview of world history from Daniel's time until the end of the age, revealing God's ultimate plan for humanity and His creation, a plan that culminates in the triumph of His righteous rule, as seen in [Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - The Eternal Kingdom of God")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **legs (Aramaic, _shâq'_):** From a root corresponding to the Hebrew word for "leg," this term denotes the lower limbs of the human body. In the context of the statue, the "legs" represent a distinct, powerful, and enduring phase of the empire, characterized by immense strength and widespread dominion, capable of supporting the entire structure.
* **iron (Aramaic, _parzel'_):** Corresponding to the Hebrew word for "iron," this metal symbolizes extraordinary strength, hardness, and the ability to break and crush. In the prophetic imagery, iron signifies an empire renowned for its military might, conquest, and unyielding nature, capable of dominating all before it.
* **feet (Aramaic, _rᵉgal'_):** Corresponding to the Hebrew word for "foot," this term refers to the lowest part of the leg, upon which the body stands. In the dream, the "feet" represent the final stage of the earthly empire, distinct from the legs, characterized by a mixed composition that indicates inherent instability and division.
* **part (Aramaic, _min'_):** Corresponding to the Hebrew preposition "min," this word literally means "from" or "out of," but in this context, it functions as "a part of." It emphasizes the distinct, fragmented nature of the feet, indicating that they are composed of separate, dissimilar elements rather than a unified whole.
* **clay (Aramaic, _chăçaph'_):** From a root meaning "to break" or "to be fragile," this Aramaic term denotes "a clod" or "clay." In stark contrast to iron, clay symbolizes fragility, brittleness, and an inability to cohere or withstand pressure. Its mixture with iron highlights the inherent weakness, division, and ultimate instability of the final earthly kingdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"His legs of iron":** This phrase describes the fourth major kingdom in Nebuchadnezzar's prophetic dream. The "legs" signify a vast and powerful empire, extending over a wide geographical area, much like legs support and move the entire body. The material, "iron," denotes its immense strength, military prowess, and unyielding nature, capable of crushing and subduing. This is widely interpreted as representing the Roman Empire, known for its formidable legions and extensive dominion.
* **"his feet part of iron and part of clay":** This clause introduces a new, more complex, and ultimately weaker phase of the final earthly power. The "feet" represent a continuation and evolution of the iron kingdom, but with a critical difference in composition. The mixture of "iron and clay" is inherently unstable; these materials do not naturally bond. This signifies a kingdom (or confederacy of kingdoms) that will possess some of the strength and rigidity of iron, yet be fundamentally weakened by the brittle, non-cohesive nature of clay. This mixture points to internal division, lack of unity, and inherent fragility, preventing it from being a truly cohesive or enduring power.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs significant **Symbolism** and **Metaphor**. The entire statue is a **Metaphor** for the succession of world empires, with each material symbolizing the nature of a specific kingdom. Specifically, "iron" **symbolizes** immense strength, military might, and an unyielding nature, characteristic of the Roman Empire. "Clay" **symbolizes** fragility, brittleness, and an inability to cohere, representing inherent weakness and division. The combination of these two disparate materials in the "feet" creates a powerful **Symbolism** of instability and internal conflict. Furthermore, there is a clear **Contrast** between the pure strength of the iron legs and the mixed, unstable nature of the iron and clay feet, highlighting the progressive decline in the unity and cohesion of earthly powers leading up to the end of the age.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 2:33, within the grand sweep of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, provides a profound theological statement about the nature of human power versus divine sovereignty. It illustrates that all earthly kingdoms, no matter how mighty or enduring, are ultimately temporary and subject to an inherent trajectory of decline and fragmentation. The shift from precious metals to iron and then to a brittle mixture of iron and clay signifies a loss of unity and internal stability, even as the raw power of conquest might increase. This prophetic vision serves as a powerful reminder that human attempts to build lasting empires are flawed and destined to fail, setting the stage for the ultimate and eternal kingdom established by God Himself. It compels believers to place their hope not in the transient and unstable systems of this world, but in the unshakable reign of the Almighty.

* [Psalm 2:1-6](/psalms/2-1 "Psalm 2:1-6 - The Futility of Earthly Rebellion Against God")
* [Luke 21:24](/luke/21-24 "Luke 21:24 - The Times of the Gentiles")
* [Revelation 17:12-14](/revelation/17-12 "Revelation 17:12-14 - Kings Who Fight Against the Lamb")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 2:33, as part of a larger prophetic revelation, offers profound insights that resonate with believers today. It calls us to adopt an eternal perspective, recognizing that all human institutions, governments, and empires are temporary and subject to divine decree. In a world often characterized by political upheaval, economic instability, and social division, this verse reminds us that the ultimate power rests not in human hands, but in the sovereign God who orchestrates history. It encourages us to find our security and hope not in the fleeting promises of earthly systems, which are ultimately like iron mixed with clay—strong in some aspects but inherently fragile and prone to division. Instead, our steadfast trust should be in the enduring and unshakeable kingdom of God, which alone will stand forever. This understanding should motivate us to live as citizens of that eternal kingdom, seeking first God's kingdom and righteousness, and engaging with the world from a posture of faith and hope in His ultimate triumph.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of iron mixed with clay challenge our tendency to place ultimate trust in human governments or systems?**
* **In what ways do we see "iron and clay" dynamics (strength mixed with inherent weakness or division) playing out in the world today?**
* **How does understanding the temporary nature of earthly kingdoms impact our priorities and our engagement with political or social issues?**
* **What practical steps can we take to ensure our hope is firmly rooted in God's eternal kingdom rather than the transient kingdoms of this world?**

### FAQ
**What do the "legs of iron" in Daniel 2:33 represent?**

Answer: The "legs of iron" are widely interpreted by biblical scholars to symbolize the Roman Empire. This empire was renowned for its immense military strength, its ability to conquer vast territories, and its unyielding nature, much like iron is hard and capable of breaking other materials. [Daniel 2:40](/daniel/2-40 "Daniel 2:40 - The Iron Kingdom Described") further describes this kingdom as one that "shall break in pieces and subdue all things," perfectly aligning with the historical characteristics of Rome. The two legs might also represent the eventual division of the Roman Empire into Eastern and Western halves.

**What does the mixture of "iron and clay" in the feet signify?**

Answer: The "feet part of iron and part of clay" symbolize a final, fragmented stage of earthly power that emerges from or follows the iron kingdom. The mixture of iron (strength) and clay (fragility) indicates an inherent instability and lack of cohesion. These materials do not naturally bond, signifying that this final kingdom (or confederacy of kingdoms) will be partly strong but also fundamentally weak and divided internally. [Daniel 2:43](/daniel/2-43 "Daniel 2:43 - The Inability of Iron and Clay to Mix") explicitly states that "they shall not cleave one to another," pointing to a lack of unity and internal strife that will prevent it from being a truly unified or enduring power.

**Why does the statue's material decline in value from gold to iron and clay?**

Answer: The progression of materials from gold (Babylon) to silver (Medo-Persia), bronze (Greece), and then iron (Rome) and finally iron mixed with clay (the final kingdom) signifies a decline not necessarily in raw power or military might, but in the *quality*, *unity*, and *cohesion* of the kingdoms. Gold represents the absolute monarchy and centralized power of Babylon. As the metals decrease in value, they symbolize a shift towards more fragmented, less unified, and ultimately more brittle forms of governance, culminating in the inherently divided nature of the iron and clay mixture. This decline underscores the temporary and ultimately flawed nature of all human attempts at establishing lasting dominion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 2:33, detailing the legs of iron and feet of iron and clay, vividly portrays the transient and ultimately fragile nature of all earthly kingdoms, setting the stage for the ultimate and eternal reign of Christ. While human empires rise and fall, characterized by strength mixed with inherent division and impermanence, the prophecy culminates not in the feet, but in the "stone cut out of the mountain without hands" ([Daniel 2:45](/daniel/2-45 "Daniel 2:45 - The Stone Kingdom")), which strikes the image and utterly demolishes it. This stone is a powerful symbol of Jesus Christ and His divine, indestructible kingdom. Unlike the kingdoms of men, which are built on human strength and are prone to internal division like iron and clay, Christ's kingdom is established by God Himself, not by human effort or military might. It is an "everlasting dominion which shall not pass away" ([Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - The Everlasting Dominion of the Son of Man")), fulfilling the promise of an eternal King whose rule knows no end ([Luke 1:33](/luke/1-33 "Luke 1:33 - Christ's Eternal Reign")). The fragility of the iron and clay feet underscores the necessity and glory of Christ's coming, who will ultimately crush all opposing earthly powers and establish a kingdom that "shall never be destroyed" ([Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - The Eternal Kingdom of God")), a kingdom that is not of this world ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Is Not of This World")), and which believers are called to inherit ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - An Unshakable Kingdom")). Thus, Daniel 2:33, in its depiction of human weakness, powerfully magnifies the enduring strength and ultimate triumph of Christ's sovereign rule.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 7:19

Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth [were of] iron, and his nails [of] brass; [which] devoured, brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet;

Daniel 7:26

But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy [it] unto the end.

Daniel 7:7

After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it [was] diverse from all the beasts that [were] before it; and it had ten horns.

Daniel 7:8

I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn [were] eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things.

Daniel 2:40

And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron: forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth all [things]: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in pieces and bruise.

Daniel 2:43

And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay.