Daniel 2:37

KJV

Thou, O king, [art] a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou {H607}, O king {H4430}, art a king {H4430} of kings {H4430}: for the God {H426} of heaven {H8065} hath given {H3052} thee a kingdom {H4437}, power {H2632}, and strength {H8632}, and glory {H3367}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Your majesty, king of kings, to whom the God of heaven has given the kingdom, the power, the strength and the glory;

Berean Standard Bible

You, O king, are the king of kings, to whom the God of heaven has given sovereignty, power, strength, and glory.

American Standard Version

Thou, O king, art king of kings, unto whom the God of heaven hath given the kingdom, the power, and the strength, and the glory;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 2:37 serves as the foundational declaration in Daniel's interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream, identifying the Babylonian monarch as the "head of gold" in the colossal image. The verse attributes Nebuchadnezzar's immense power, vast kingdom, and unparalleled glory not to his own might or human achievement, but directly to the sovereign bestowal of "the God of heaven." This profound statement immediately establishes divine sovereignty as the ultimate authority over all earthly rulers and empires, setting the stage for the unfolding prophetic narrative of successive world kingdoms.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 2:37 is the pivotal opening statement of Daniel's interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream, following the king's desperate demand for his wise men to both reveal and interpret a forgotten dream, and their subsequent failure. Daniel, having sought and received divine revelation, first recounts the dream in vivid detail, describing the great image with a head of gold, chest and arms of silver, belly and thighs of bronze, legs of iron, and feet of iron mixed with clay, which is then struck by a stone cut without human hands [Daniel 2:31-35](/daniel/2-31 "Daniel 2:31-35 - Description of the Great Image"). This verse, therefore, marks the transition from the dream's description to its profound meaning, directly addressing Nebuchadnezzar and identifying him as the golden head. It sets the stage for the progressive revelation of future world empires and the ultimate establishment of God's eternal kingdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting of Daniel 2 is the Babylonian Empire at the zenith of its power under King Nebuchadnezzar II (reigned c. 605-562 BC). Babylon had recently conquered the Neo-Assyrian Empire and subjugated Judah, carrying many of its inhabitants, including Daniel, into exile. Nebuchadnezzar was an exceptionally powerful and ambitious monarch, known for his military prowess, vast building projects (including the Hanging Gardens of Babylon), and his absolute authority. The title "king of kings" was an honorific used by various ancient Near Eastern rulers (e.g., Assyrian and Persian monarchs) to denote their supreme authority over vassal kings and tributary states. This title reflected the common understanding of imperial power in the ancient world, where a dominant empire would rule over a multitude of lesser kingdoms. Daniel's declaration, therefore, would have resonated deeply with Nebuchadnezzar's self-perception and the prevailing political reality, even as it subtly reoriented the source of that power.
* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces and reinforces several critical themes that permeate the book of Daniel. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty**, asserting that God, the "God of heaven," is the ultimate ruler over all earthly affairs, including the rise and fall of empires and the destinies of kings. Nebuchadnezzar's immense power is explicitly stated to be a divine bestowal, not an inherent right, highlighting the theme of **Human Authority as Derived from God**. This concept directly challenges the pagan notion of self-made or divinely-born monarchs, placing even the mightiest human ruler under the authority of the one true God. Furthermore, by identifying Nebuchadnezzar as the "head of gold," the verse lays the **Foundation for Prophecy**, initiating the detailed prophetic outline of successive world empires that will dominate the remainder of [Daniel chapter 2](/daniel/2 "Daniel 2 - Nebuchadnezzar's Dream and Daniel's Interpretation") and subsequent chapters, culminating in the establishment of God's eternal kingdom, a theme powerfully articulated in [Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Eternal Kingdom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **king (Aramaic, _melek'_):** This Aramaic term, corresponding to the Hebrew `melek`, signifies a monarch or sovereign ruler. In Daniel 2:37, it is used three times, first to address Nebuchadnezzar directly, then to describe him as "a king of kings." This repetition emphasizes his supreme earthly authority, a title often used by powerful ancient Near Eastern emperors to denote their dominion over other rulers. However, the context immediately qualifies this human greatness by attributing its source to God.
* **given (Aramaic, _yᵉhab'_):** This verb, meaning "to give" or "to put," is crucial as it denotes the divine origin of Nebuchadnezzar's power. It highlights that his kingdom, strength, and glory are not self-acquired or inherent, but rather a direct bestowal from "the God of heaven." This word underscores the theological truth that all earthly authority is ultimately delegated by God, making human rulers stewards of His power.
* **God (Aramaic, _ʼĕlâhh'_):** This Aramaic word, equivalent to the Hebrew `ʼĕlōah` (singular of `ʼĕlōhîm`), refers to the one true God. The phrase "the God of heaven" specifically identifies Him as the transcendent, sovereign deity who rules over all creation and human history. By naming "the God of heaven" as the giver of Nebuchadnezzar's power, Daniel distinguishes the true God from the numerous pagan deities worshipped in Babylon, asserting His unique and supreme authority.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou, O king, [art] a king of kings":** Daniel directly addresses Nebuchadnezzar, acknowledging his unparalleled earthly dominion. The phrase "king of kings" is a superlative, indicating that Nebuchadnezzar holds supreme authority over other lesser kings or vassal states, reflecting the vastness and power of the Babylonian Empire at its height. This recognition of his status would have immediately captured the king's attention and validated Daniel's understanding of his position.
* **"for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory.":** This clause immediately qualifies and reorients the source of Nebuchadnezzar's greatness. Daniel asserts that the king's vast "kingdom," his "power" (H2632, _chêçen_, denoting strength or might), his "strength" (H8632, _tᵉqôph_, indicating power or might), and his "glory" (H3367, _yᵉqâr_, meaning value, wealth, or dignity) are not inherent to him but are direct gifts from "the God of heaven." This statement profoundly shifts the focus from human achievement to divine sovereignty, establishing that even the mightiest earthly ruler is entirely dependent on God's will and bestowal.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 2:37 employs several potent literary devices. The phrase "**Hyperbole**" is evident in "king of kings," which, while an actual title, emphasizes Nebuchadnezzar's extraordinary dominion in a way that borders on exaggeration to underscore his perceived omnipotence. This is immediately followed by a clear instance of "**Divine Attribution**" or "**Divine Bestowal**," as Daniel explicitly states that all of Nebuchadnezzar's power and glory have been "given" by "the God of heaven." This device serves to reframe the source of authority from human might to divine will. Furthermore, the verse presents a subtle but profound "**Contrast**" between human perception of power and divine reality. While Nebuchadnezzar might see himself as supreme, Daniel reveals that his supremacy is entirely derivative, highlighting the ultimate sovereignty of God over all earthly rulers. The repetition of the concept of power through the terms "kingdom, power, and strength, and glory" also serves as a form of "**Emphasis**," underscoring the completeness of God's gift and, by extension, His absolute control.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 2:37 is a cornerstone for understanding the biblical doctrine of divine sovereignty over human government. It unequivocally declares that all earthly authority, even that of the most formidable emperors, is not inherent but is divinely bestowed and ultimately subject to the will of "the God of heaven." This truth challenges any notion of absolute human autonomy or self-derived power, asserting that God actively orchestrates the rise and fall of nations and leaders according to His eternal purposes. This perspective provides comfort and stability to believers, knowing that despite the apparent chaos or injustice in human politics, a sovereign God remains firmly in control, working all things for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom. It also serves as a profound call to humility for those in positions of power, reminding them that their authority is a stewardship from God, for which they will ultimately be accountable.

* [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [Psalm 75:6-7](/psalms/75-6 "God Judges the Earth")
* [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "God Changes Times and Seasons")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 2:37 offers timeless and profoundly relevant truths for believers navigating a world of shifting political landscapes and powerful leaders. It calls us to remember that no human authority, no matter how vast or seemingly invincible, operates outside the purview of God's ultimate sovereignty. In times of political turmoil or when faced with oppressive regimes, this verse provides a bedrock of hope and reassurance: God is still on His throne, and He sets up kings and pulls them down according to His perfect will. For those who hold positions of leadership, whether in government, business, or ministry, it serves as a powerful reminder of humility and stewardship. All influence and authority are gifts from God, to be exercised with wisdom, justice, and a recognition of ultimate accountability to Him. This understanding should inspire prayer for leaders, a commitment to righteous living regardless of external circumstances, and an unwavering trust in God's overarching plan for history, which culminates in His eternal kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God as the ultimate source of all earthly power impact your view of current political leaders and governments?**
* **In what ways might the truth that your "kingdom, power, and strength, and glory" are given by God influence your own leadership or areas of influence?**
* **How can the sovereignty of God, as displayed in Daniel 2:37, provide comfort and hope in times of societal or political uncertainty?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live out the truth that God is in control, even when human authorities seem to act contrary to His will?**

### FAQ
**What does "king of kings" mean in Daniel 2:37, and was Nebuchadnezzar truly the most powerful ruler of his time?**

Answer: The title "king of kings" (Aramaic: _malka malchin_) is a superlative expression signifying supreme earthly dominion. It indicates that Nebuchadnezzar was not merely a king, but a ruler over many other kings or vassal states, reflecting the vastness and dominance of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. At the time Daniel spoke these words, Nebuchadnezzar was indeed the most powerful monarch in the ancient Near East, having conquered Assyria, subjugated Egypt, and brought Judah under his control. The title accurately reflected his unparalleled military and political might. However, Daniel immediately qualifies this human greatness by stating that this authority was "given" to him by "the God of heaven," underscoring that even the most powerful human ruler's authority is ultimately derivative and dependent on divine bestowal.

**How does this verse relate to the concept of divine sovereignty over nations?**

Answer: Daniel 2:37 is a foundational text for the biblical doctrine of divine sovereignty over nations. It explicitly states that Nebuchadnezzar's "kingdom, power, and strength, and glory" were *given* to him by "the God of heaven." This means that God is the ultimate orchestrator of world history, raising up and bringing down empires and rulers according to His sovereign will. This theme is echoed throughout Scripture, such as in [Psalm 75:6-7](/psalms/75-6 "Psalm 75:6-7 - God Judges the Earth"), which declares that "exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But it is God who judges: He brings one down, He exalts another." It challenges any notion of human autonomy in governance and asserts God's active, controlling hand in the affairs of mankind.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 2:37 directly addresses Nebuchadnezzar's earthly dominion, it inherently points forward to the ultimate "King of kings" who would establish an eternal and indestructible kingdom. Nebuchadnezzar's reign, though vast and glorious, was temporary, a mere "head of gold" in a succession of fading empires, as revealed in the rest of [Daniel chapter 2](/daniel/2 "Daniel 2 - Nebuchadnezzar's Dream and Daniel's Interpretation"). The true and lasting fulfillment of the "king of kings" title is found in Jesus Christ. Unlike Nebuchadnezzar, whose power was *given* to him by God, Jesus possesses all authority inherently as the Son of God, yet He also received all authority in heaven and on earth from the Father after His resurrection [Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - The Great Commission"). He is the one before whom "every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth" [Philippians 2:10](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10 - Christ's Exaltation"). His kingdom, unlike the transient empires of this world, is "a kingdom that shall never be destroyed" [Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Eternal Kingdom"), a spiritual and eternal reign that will ultimately fill the whole earth. Thus, Nebuchadnezzar's temporary, divinely-granted kingship serves as a shadow, foreshadowing the everlasting, sovereign rule of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who is indeed the "King of kings and Lord of lords" [Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - The Rider on the White Horse").

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

Ezekiel 26:7

For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will bring upon Tyrus Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, a king of kings, from the north, with horses, and with chariots, and with horsemen, and companies, and much people.

Jeremiah 27:6

And now have I given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant; and the beasts of the field have I given him also to serve him.

Jeremiah 27:7

And all nations shall serve him, and his son, and his son's son, until the very time of his land come: and then many nations and great kings shall serve themselves of him.

Ezra 1:2

Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which [is] in Judah.

Daniel 5:18

O thou king, the most high God gave Nebuchadnezzar thy father a kingdom, and majesty, and glory, and honour:

Ezra 7:12

Artaxerxes, king of kings, unto Ezra the priest, a scribe of the law of the God of heaven, perfect [peace], and at such a time.

Isaiah 47:5

Sit thou silent, and get thee into darkness, O daughter of the Chaldeans: for thou shalt no more be called, The lady of kingdoms.