Daniel 4:24

This [is] the interpretation, O king, and this [is] the decree of the most High, which is come upon my lord the king:

This {H1836} is the interpretation {H6591}, O king {H4430}, and this {H1932} is the decree {H1510} of the most High {H5943}, which is come {H4291} upon {H5922} my lord {H4756} the king {H4430}:

"'This is the interpretation, your majesty; and it is the decree of the Most High that has come upon my lord the king:

This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree that the Most High has issued against my lord the king:

this is the interpretation, O king, and it is the decree of the Most High, which is come upon my lord the king:

Commentary on Daniel 4:24 KJV

Daniel 4:24 serves as a pivotal verse in the prophetic interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream, where Daniel reveals the divine judgment awaiting the proud Babylonian monarch. This verse clearly transitions from the description of the dream to its direct, impactful meaning for the king.

Context

This verse is part of Daniel's interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar's terrifying dream, which depicted a magnificent tree that was cut down, leaving only a stump. After all the king's wise men failed to interpret it, Daniel, known for his divine insight, was called upon. He delivers the interpretation with a heavy heart, as it foretells a period of severe humiliation for Nebuchadnezzar himself. The setting is the height of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, and Nebuchadnezzar is at the peak of his power and pride.

Key Themes

  • Divine Sovereignty: Daniel explicitly states that the interpretation is not his own, but "the decree of the most High." This highlights God's absolute control over all earthly kingdoms and rulers, a recurring theme throughout the Book of Daniel. God's authority supersedes even the most powerful human empires.
  • Prophetic Clarity: Daniel's interpretation is direct and unambiguous. He does not sugarcoat the message but delivers God's truth to the king, emphasizing the certain fulfillment of the divine decree.
  • Judgment for Pride: Though not fully elaborated in this verse, the subsequent verses reveal that the "decree" is a judgment against Nebuchadnezzar's excessive pride and his failure to acknowledge God as the true source of his power and dominion. This serves as a warning against human arrogance.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "the most High" is a translation of the Aramaic ‘Illay or ‘Elyon, which is a significant title for God, emphasizing His supreme elevated position and authority over all creation. It underscores that the judgment against Nebuchadnezzar originates from the ultimate sovereign power, not from any earthly source. This title is frequently used in Daniel to stress God's dominion over the kingdoms of men.

Practical Application

Daniel 4:24 reminds us of several important truths:

  • God's Authority: No human power, no matter how great, can stand against the will and decree of the Most High God. This offers comfort to those who trust in God and a sober warning to those who rely solely on their own strength or earthly achievements.
  • Humility is Key: The story of Nebuchadnezzar serves as a timeless lesson on the dangers of pride and the necessity of humility before God. Recognizing that all blessings and authority come from Him is crucial for a right relationship with the Creator. Nebuchadnezzar's eventual restoration after his period of madness underscores the importance of humility and acknowledging God's power.
  • Truth Must Be Spoken: Daniel's courage to deliver an unwelcome truth to a powerful king is a model for believers called to speak God's word, even when it is challenging or unpopular.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 107:40

    He poureth contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, [where there is] no way.

  • Isaiah 46:10

    Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times [the things] that are not [yet] done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:

  • Isaiah 46:11

    Calling a ravenous bird from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I have spoken [it], I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed [it], I will also do it.

  • Job 40:11

    Cast abroad the rage of thy wrath: and behold every one [that is] proud, and abase him.

  • Job 40:12

    Look on every one [that is] proud, [and] bring him low; and tread down the wicked in their place.

  • Daniel 4:17

    This matter [is] by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.

  • Job 20:29

    This [is] the portion of a wicked man from God, and the heritage appointed unto him by God.

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