Daniel 4:35

KJV

And all the inhabitants of the earth [are] reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and [among] the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?

KJV (with Strong's)

And all {H3606} the inhabitants {H1753} of the earth {H772} are reputed {H2804} as nothing {H3809}: and he doeth {H5648} according to his will {H6634} in the army {H2429} of heaven {H8065}, and among the inhabitants {H1753} of the earth {H772}: and none {H3809} can {H383} stay {H4223} his hand {H3028}, or say {H560} unto him, What {H4101} doest {H5648} thou?

Complete Jewish Bible

All who live on earth are counted as nothing. He does what he wishes with the army of heaven and with those living on earth. No one can hold back his hand or ask him, "What are you doing?"'

Berean Standard Bible

All the peoples of the earth are counted as nothing, and He does as He pleases with the army of heaven and the peoples of the earth. There is no one who can restrain His hand or say to Him, ‘What have You done?’”

American Standard Version

and all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing; and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 4:35 stands as a profound declaration of God's absolute and unchallengeable sovereignty, articulated by none other than King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon after a period of divine humbling and restoration. This verse encapsulates the core message of the entire chapter: that the Most High God alone rules over both the celestial realm and all earthly inhabitants, executing His will without opposition or question, thereby rendering all human power and pretension as utterly insignificant in comparison to His supreme authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse climaxes King Nebuchadnezzar's personal testimony in [Daniel chapter 4](/daniel/4 "Daniel 4 - Nebuchadnezzar's Dream and Humbling"), a unique chapter in the book written from the perspective of a pagan king. Following a dream that troubled him, Daniel interpreted it as a prophetic warning of divine judgment due to Nebuchadnezzar's pride. The dream foretold that the king would be driven from human society and live like a beast for "seven times" until he acknowledged that "the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will" ([Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms")). After the prophecy's fulfillment and Nebuchadnezzar's subsequent restoration to sanity and his throne, this verse represents his ultimate, humbled confession of God's universal dominion, serving as the theological capstone to his dramatic personal narrative.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Nebuchadnezzar ruled the Neo-Babylonian Empire, the dominant world power of his time, renowned for its military might and architectural marvels like the Hanging Gardens. In the ancient Near East, kings often considered themselves divine or divinely appointed, wielding absolute power. Nebuchadnezzar's initial pride, evident in his boasting about Babylon's grandeur ([Daniel 4:30](/daniel/4-30 "Daniel 4:30 - Nebuchadnezzar's Pride")), was characteristic of such rulers. This context makes his confession in [Daniel 4:35](/daniel/4-35 "Daniel 4:35 - God's Unchallengeable Sovereignty") all the more remarkable: the most powerful man on earth, from a polytheistic culture, publicly acknowledges the singular, supreme, and irresistible authority of the God of Israel, a stark contrast to the prevailing worldview and a powerful testament to Yahweh's unique nature.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme of [Daniel chapter 4](/daniel/4 "Daniel 4 - God's Sovereignty Over All") and particularly this verse is the **absolute divine sovereignty** of God. It asserts that God's rule extends over all creation, both heavenly and earthly, and that His will is executed without hindrance. This directly challenges **human pride and self-sufficiency**, demonstrating that even the most powerful earthly rulers are utterly dependent on and subordinate to God. The verse also underscores the theme of **God's unchallengeable authority**, emphasizing that no one, whether human or angelic, can thwart His plans or question His actions. This divine prerogative is a recurring motif in Scripture, affirming God's ultimate control over history and destiny, as also seen in [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons") and [Daniel 4:25](/daniel/4-25 "Daniel 4:25 - The Most High Rules").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **reputed (Aramaic, _chăshab'_):** Corresponding to the Hebrew _chāshab_, this Aramaic term means "to regard" or "to repute." In the context of Daniel 4:35, when applied to the "inhabitants of the earth," it conveys the idea that they are "accounted as nothing" or "considered utterly insignificant." This is not merely a statement of worthlessness but a declaration of their comparative non-existence or utter powerlessness when measured against the infinite might and majesty of God.
* **army (Aramaic, _chayil'_):** This word, corresponding to the Hebrew _chayil_, typically means "strength" or "army." In the phrase "army of heaven," it refers to the celestial hosts, which can encompass both the angelic beings who serve God's purposes and, at times, the heavenly bodies (stars, planets) that operate under His command. The term emphasizes the organized, powerful, and obedient nature of God's heavenly forces, all of whom are instruments of His sovereign will.
* **hand (Aramaic, _yad'_):** Corresponding to the Hebrew _yad_, this term signifies "a hand," but more broadly represents "power," "means," or "direction." The phrase "stay his hand" (with _mᵉchâʼ_ meaning "to strike in pieces" or "to arrest") powerfully communicates the impossibility of resisting, hindering, or striking back against God's actions. It highlights God's irresistible power and the futility of any attempt to oppose His divine will.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And all the inhabitants of the earth [are] reputed as nothing":** This clause establishes a radical contrast between human existence and divine omnipotence. It declares that in the face of God's absolute sovereignty, all humanity, with its power, achievements, and aspirations, holds no intrinsic significance or independent authority. They are not merely small or weak, but "as nothing," utterly inconsequential in their capacity to influence or resist God's cosmic plan.
* **"and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and [among] the inhabitants of the earth":** This is the central affirmation of God's universal dominion. It asserts that God's actions are not random or reactive but are meticulously executed "according to his will" (Aramaic _tsᵉbâʼ_, meaning "to please" or "will"). His sovereign will is implemented seamlessly across both the heavenly realm, where the angelic hosts and celestial bodies obey His every command, and the earthly realm, where human affairs, nations, and individuals are ultimately subject to His overarching purpose.
* **"and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?":** This concluding clause powerfully underscores the irresistibility and unquestionable nature of God's authority. "None can stay his hand" signifies that no one possesses the power or ability to hinder, resist, or thwart God's actions. Furthermore, "or say unto him, What doest thou?" emphasizes that no one has the right or standing to challenge, interrogate, or demand an account from God regarding His choices or methods. His actions are beyond human comprehension and accountability.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 4:35 is rich in **Hyperbole**, particularly in the phrase "all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing," which dramatically emphasizes human insignificance in comparison to God's infinite majesty. The verse employs **Parallelism** by stating God's dominion "in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth," highlighting His comprehensive rule over both celestial and terrestrial spheres. **Anthropomorphism** is present in "none can stay his hand," attributing a human characteristic (a hand as an instrument of action and power) to God to convey His irresistible might in a relatable way. Finally, the verse utilizes **Rhetorical Question** implicitly in "or say unto him, What doest thou?", which is not an actual question but a powerful assertion that no one has the authority to question God's actions.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly articulates the doctrine of divine sovereignty, asserting that God's will is the ultimate governing principle of the universe. It teaches that God is not merely powerful, but His power is absolute, irresistible, and extends over all creation, both visible and invisible. This truth provides both comfort and challenge: comfort in knowing that a wise and benevolent God is ultimately in control, even amidst chaos, and challenge in reminding humanity of its finite nature and utter dependence on the Creator. It calls for humility, trust, and worship, recognizing that all authority and glory belong to Him alone.

* [Psalm 115:3](/psalm/115-3 "Psalm 115:3 - Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases.")
* [Isaiah 40:15](/isaiah/40-15 "Isaiah 40:15 - Nations are as a drop in a bucket before God.")
* [Romans 9:20](/romans/9-20 "Romans 9:20 - Who are you, O man, to answer back to God?")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 4:35 offers timeless truths that deeply impact our understanding of God and our place in His world. It compels us to cultivate a profound sense of humility, recognizing that our lives, achievements, and even our very breath are gifts from His sovereign hand. In a world often characterized by human pride, self-reliance, and a desire for control, this verse serves as a powerful antidote, reminding us that true wisdom begins with acknowledging God's supreme authority and our utter dependence upon Him. Furthermore, it provides immense comfort and security, especially in times of uncertainty or suffering. Knowing that an all-wise, all-powerful, and all-loving God "doeth according to his will" means that nothing is outside of His providential care. We can rest in the assurance that His purposes will prevail, and His ultimate plan for good will unfold, even when we cannot discern it. This truth invites us to surrender our anxieties, trust His perfect timing, and align our wills with His, finding peace in His unshakeable dominion.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does acknowledging God's absolute sovereignty impact your daily decisions and long-term plans?**
* **In what areas of your life do you struggle to surrender control to God's will, and how might this verse encourage greater trust?**
* **If all inhabitants of the earth are "reputed as nothing" before God, what does this imply about the importance of humility in our spiritual walk?**
* **How does the unchallengeable nature of God's hand provide comfort or challenge in times of personal or global turmoil?**

### FAQ

**Does God's absolute sovereignty negate human free will or responsibility?**

Answer: Daniel 4:35 emphasizes God's ultimate control and the fact that His will cannot be thwarted. However, the Bible consistently presents a tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, rather than a contradiction. While God's plan will ultimately prevail, He uses human choices, both good and bad, to accomplish His purposes. Nebuchadnezzar's humbling was a direct consequence of his pride, demonstrating that human actions have real consequences and that individuals are accountable for their choices, even within God's sovereign framework. The verse highlights God's *ultimate* authority, not necessarily a deterministic control over every minute human decision in a way that removes moral agency.

**What is meant by the "army of heaven" in this context?**

Answer: The "army of heaven" (Aramaic _chayil shâmayin_) most commonly refers to the angelic host – the vast multitude of spiritual beings who serve God and carry out His commands. They are His obedient agents in the spiritual realm and often intervene in earthly affairs according to His will. While less common in this specific phrasing, it can also encompass the celestial bodies (stars, planets), which the ancients sometimes viewed as divine entities or forces, but which the biblical worldview asserts are merely creations under God's absolute command, serving His purposes. In either interpretation, the phrase underscores God's dominion over all spiritual and cosmic forces.

**If humans are "reputed as nothing," does that mean God doesn't care about us?**

Answer: Absolutely not. The phrase "reputed as nothing" in Daniel 4:35 is a statement of comparative power and significance, not a declaration of God's disregard or lack of love for humanity. It emphasizes human insignificance *in comparison to God's infinite majesty and power*, particularly in our ability to resist or question His will. The same God who humbles Nebuchadnezzar is the one who restores him, demonstrating His redemptive care. Throughout Scripture, God's sovereignty is often paired with His profound love and care for His creation, especially humanity, culminating in His redemptive plan. Our insignificance in power does not diminish our value in His eyes.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 4:35, with its resounding declaration of God's absolute sovereignty, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "Most High" who rules in the kingdom of men is none other than the Father, who has committed all authority to the Son. Jesus Himself declared, "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). The "army of heaven" and the "inhabitants of the earth" are now under the direct authority of the resurrected Christ, who is "far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which to come" ([Ephesians 1:21](/ephesians/1-21 "Ephesians 1:21 - Christ's Supreme Authority")). No one can "stay His hand" because He is the Lamb of God who was slain, yet now reigns as King of kings and Lord of lords ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")). His will, which perfectly aligns with the Father's, is sovereign over all creation, over sin and death, and over the destiny of every individual. In Christ, God's unchallengeable will is not an abstract force but a redemptive purpose, culminating in the reconciliation of all things to Himself through the cross ([Colossians 1:19-20](/colossians/1-19 "Colossians 1:19 - All Fullness Dwells in Christ")). Thus, Daniel's vision of an all-powerful God is fully realized in the cosmic reign of the crucified and risen Lord, through whom God's sovereign plan of salvation is accomplished.

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

Job 42:2

I know that thou canst do every [thing], and [that] no thought can be withholden from thee.

Psalms 135:6

Whatsoever the LORD pleased, [that] did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places.

Psalms 115:3

But our God [is] in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.

Romans 11:33

¶ O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable [are] his judgments, and his ways past finding out!

Romans 11:36

For of him, and through him, and to him, [are] all things: to whom [be] glory for ever. Amen.

Isaiah 40:15

Behold, the nations [are] as a drop of a bucket, and are counted as the small dust of the balance: behold, he taketh up the isles as a very little thing.

Isaiah 40:17

All nations before him [are] as nothing; and they are counted to him less than nothing, and vanity.