Daniel 4:37

KJV

Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, all whose works [are] truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now {H3705} I {H576} Nebuchadnezzar {H5020} praise {H7624} and extol {H7313} and honour {H1922} the King {H4430} of heaven {H8065}, all {H3606} whose works {H4567} are truth {H7187}, and his ways {H735} judgment {H1780}: and those that walk {H1981} in pride {H1467} he is able {H3202} to abase {H8214}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So now I, N'vukhadnetzar, praise, exalt and honor the King of heaven: "'For all his works are truth, and his ways are just; and he can humble those who walk in pride.'"

Berean Standard Bible

Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, for all His works are true and all His ways are just. And He is able to humble those who walk in pride.

American Standard Version

Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven; for all his works are truth, and his ways justice; and those that walk in pride he is able to abase.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 4:37 serves as the climactic declaration of King Nebuchadnezzar's profound spiritual transformation, marking the culmination of his humbling experience and subsequent restoration. This verse captures his unequivocal renunciation of self-exaltation and his heartfelt, public confession of the absolute sovereignty, truth, and justice of the God of heaven. It stands as a powerful testament to divine power, demonstrating God's unique ability to abase the proud and to reveal His righteous character through His works and ways, ultimately leading even the most powerful earthly rulers to acknowledge His supreme authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 4:37 concludes Nebuchadnezzar's personal testimony, which forms the core of Daniel chapter 4. The chapter begins with the king's own recounting of a terrifying dream involving a magnificent tree that was cut down, leaving only a stump. Daniel, God's prophet, interpreted this dream as a divine warning to Nebuchadnezzar, prophesying that he would be driven from human society and live like a beast for "seven times" until he acknowledged the Most High's rule over all kingdoms ([Daniel 4:25](/daniel/4-25 "Daniel 4:25 - The Interpretation of the Dream")). The narrative then details the fulfillment of this prophecy, as Nebuchadnezzar succumbs to a period of severe mental illness, living in the wilderness. His restoration to sanity and kingship is immediately followed by his dramatic declaration of praise to God, which begins in [Daniel 4:34](/daniel/4-34 "Daniel 4:34 - Nebuchadnezzar's Restoration and Praise") and culminates in the profound confession of verse 37, solidifying the chapter's overarching message of divine sovereignty.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Nebuchadnezzar was the most powerful monarch of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, ruling from 605-562 BC. His empire was vast, and he was renowned for his military conquests, including the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of the Judeans. Babylon itself was a marvel of the ancient world, with its Hanging Gardens, massive walls, and ziggurats, all testaments to Nebuchadnezzar's power and ambition. In this polytheistic society, kings were often considered divine or divinely appointed, and their word was law. Nebuchadnezzar's pride was deeply ingrained in his cultural context, where human achievement and imperial might were celebrated as ultimate. His public confession of the God of Israel as the "King of heaven" was therefore an extraordinary and counter-cultural act, demonstrating a radical shift from the prevailing pagan worldview to the recognition of monotheistic divine supremacy, a concept deeply challenging to the Babylonian religious and political order.

* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme of Daniel chapter 4, powerfully reinforced by [Daniel 4:37](/daniel/4-37 "Daniel 4:37 - Nebuchadnezzar's Confession of God's Sovereignty"), is the **absolute sovereignty of God** over all earthly rulers and kingdoms. Nebuchadnezzar's experience vividly illustrates that no human power, however great, can stand against the will of the Most High. Closely related is the theme of the **humbling of pride**, as the king's self-exaltation is directly met with divine judgment, demonstrating that "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble" ([James 4:6](/james/4-6 "God Resists the Proud")). The verse also highlights God's **unwavering truth and righteous judgment**, affirming that His character is consistent and His actions are always just, even when they involve severe discipline. Finally, the narrative showcases the **transformative power of divine intervention**, as Nebuchadnezzar moves from arrogant self-sufficiency to genuine reverence, illustrating that true wisdom and restoration come through acknowledging God's supreme authority, as seen in his earlier declaration in [Daniel 4:34-35](/daniel/4-34 "Daniel 4:34-35 - Nebuchadnezzar's Praise and Acknowledgment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **praise (Aramaic, _shᵉbach'_):** (H7624) Corresponding to the Hebrew `shâbach`, this Aramaic term means "to adulate" or "to adore." In this context, it signifies Nebuchadnezzar's act of offering profound worship and commendation to God, moving beyond mere acknowledgment to a deep expression of reverence and admiration for His character and deeds.
* **pride (Aramaic, _gêvâh'_):** (H1467) Corresponding to the Hebrew `gêvâh`, this word denotes "exaltation" or, figuratively, "arrogance." It refers to an inflated sense of self-importance, a haughty disposition that attributes success and power to one's own abilities rather than to divine provision. Nebuchadnezzar's journey is a direct confrontation with this very sin.
* **abase (Aramaic, _shᵉphal'_):** (H8214) Corresponding to the Hebrew `shâfêl`, this term means "to depress or sink," or figuratively, "to humiliate." It describes God's active role in bringing low those who are proud, stripping them of their self-exalted status and power, thereby demonstrating His ultimate authority and the futility of human arrogance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven,"**: This opening clause marks a dramatic shift. The "Now" (Aramaic: `kᵉʻan`) emphasizes the immediate and profound change in the king's perspective following his restoration. The triple declaration—praise (`shᵉbach`), extol (`rûwm`), and honour (`hădar`)—underscores the depth and sincerity of his newfound reverence. He is no longer praising himself or pagan deities, but the "King of heaven" (Aramaic: `Melek Shamayin`), a title that explicitly acknowledges God's supreme authority not just over earth, but over the entire cosmos, transcending all earthly and pagan powers.
* **"all whose works [are] truth, and his ways judgment:"**: This clause articulates the foundational attributes of the "King of heaven" that Nebuchadnezzar has come to understand. "All whose works are truth" (Aramaic: `qᵉshôwṭ`) declares God's actions as utterly reliable, faithful, and consistent with His character, free from deception or error. His "ways" (Aramaic: `ʼôrach`), referring to His dealings and governance, are "judgment" (Aramaic: `dîyn`), meaning they are characterized by perfect justice, righteousness, and equity. This signifies Nebuchadnezzar's recognition that God's rule is not arbitrary but founded on perfect moral principles, even when it involves severe discipline.
* **"and those that walk in pride he is able to abase."**: This final, concluding statement serves as a theological summary of Nebuchadnezzar's personal experience and a universal principle of divine governance. "Those that walk in pride" (Aramaic: `hălak bᵉgêvâh`) describes a lifestyle characterized by arrogance and self-sufficiency. The phrase "he is able to abase" (Aramaic: `yᵉkêl lishpâl`) highlights God's omnipotence and His sovereign prerogative to humble, bring low, or degrade anyone who exalts themselves, demonstrating that no human power can withstand His will. This serves as both a warning and a testament to God's ultimate authority over all creation.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 4:37 is rich in literary devices that amplify its theological message. The most prominent is **Personal Testimony**, as the entire chapter, culminating in this verse, is presented as Nebuchadnezzar's own first-person account of his humbling and transformation. This narrative technique lends authenticity and power to the king's confession. **Parallelism** is evident in the phrase "all whose works are truth, and his ways judgment," where "works" parallels "ways" and "truth" parallels "judgment," emphasizing the consistent and righteous nature of God's character and actions. There is also a strong **Contrast** between Nebuchadnezzar's former state of pride and God's ability to "abase" him, highlighting the stark opposition between human arrogance and divine sovereignty. The use of a **Triad** in "praise and extol and honour" emphasizes the comprehensive and fervent nature of the king's worship. Finally, the verse functions as a **Climax** to the narrative of Nebuchadnezzar's transformation, providing a definitive statement of his newfound faith and understanding of God's ultimate authority.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 4:37 encapsulates profound theological truths about God's character and His interaction with humanity. It underscores the absolute and unchallengeable sovereignty of God, demonstrating that He is the ultimate ruler over all earthly kingdoms and the destinies of even the most powerful monarchs. Nebuchadnezzar's dramatic humbling serves as a vivid illustration of divine justice against human pride, affirming that God resists the arrogant but exalts the humble. The king's declaration that God's "works are truth, and his ways judgment" speaks to the inherent righteousness and reliability of God's character, assuring believers that His actions are always just and His promises always true, even when His methods involve severe discipline for the purpose of bringing about repentance and recognition of His supremacy.

* [Psalm 75:6-7](/psalms/75-6 "Psalm 75:6-7 - God is the Judge")
* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")
* [1 Peter 5:6](/1_peter/5-6 "1 Peter 5:6 - Humble Yourselves Under God's Mighty Hand")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 4:37 offers timeless and profound lessons for every individual, regardless of their station in life. For those in positions of power, it serves as a stark reminder that all authority is delegated by God and is ultimately accountable to Him. True leadership, therefore, must be characterized by humility and a recognition of divine sovereignty, rather than self-exaltation. For all believers, this verse underscores the inherent danger of pride, which God actively opposes and is able to bring low. It calls us to cultivate a spirit of humility, acknowledging that our achievements, talents, and even our very breath are gifts from God. When we walk in humility, we align ourselves with God's will and open ourselves to His grace and exaltation in due time. Furthermore, Nebuchadnezzar's testimony encourages us to trust in God's perfect truth and judgment, even when His ways seem difficult or mysterious. His discipline is always purposeful, aiming to draw us closer to Him and to reveal His righteous character.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might pride be subtly influencing your thoughts or actions?**
* **How does Nebuchadnezzar's transformation challenge your understanding of God's power and His methods of working in the lives of individuals, even those who initially oppose Him?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate a deeper sense of humility and acknowledge God's sovereignty in your daily life?**
* **How does the truth that God's "works are truth, and his ways judgment" bring you comfort or challenge in your current circumstances?**

### FAQ

**What does "King of heaven" mean in this context?**
Answer: The title "King of heaven" (Aramaic: `Melek Shamayin`) is highly significant. It represents Nebuchadnezzar's profound theological shift from worshipping pagan deities, who were often associated with specific earthly domains or limited cosmic powers, to recognizing the one true God as the supreme, universal ruler. This title emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty not only over earthly kingdoms and human affairs but also over the entire celestial realm, signifying His ultimate authority over all creation, far surpassing any other god or king. It highlights that no power, earthly or spiritual, can compare to Him, as demonstrated by Nebuchadnezzar's humbling experience and subsequent restoration, found in [Daniel 4:34-36](/daniel/4-34 "Daniel 4:34-36 - Nebuchadnezzar's Restoration and Praise").

**How does Nebuchadnezzar's experience relate to the biblical teaching on pride?**
Answer: Nebuchadnezzar's experience in Daniel 4 is a quintessential biblical narrative illustrating the dangers of pride and God's opposition to it. His self-exaltation and failure to acknowledge God's sovereignty led directly to his humbling, as prophesied in [Daniel 4:25](/daniel/4-25 "Daniel 4:25 - The Interpretation of the Dream"). The verse explicitly states that God "is able to abase" those who "walk in pride." This aligns perfectly with broader biblical themes, such as [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction"), which warns that "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall," and [James 4:6](/james/4-6 "James 4:6 - God Resists the Proud"), which declares that "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." Nebuchadnezzar's story serves as a powerful, real-life demonstration of these spiritual truths.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 4:37, though an Old Testament passage, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Nebuchadnezzar's declaration of the "King of heaven" points forward to Jesus, who is the true and ultimate King of heaven, not merely by decree but by divine nature, as affirmed in [John 1:1-3](/john/1-1 "John 1:1-3 - The Word Became Flesh"). While Nebuchadnezzar was humbled *because* of his pride, Christ, the King of glory, chose to humble Himself, taking "the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation")). His works were perfectly "truth," as He declared Himself to be "the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), and His "ways" were always "judgment," not in the sense of condemnation for the repentant, but in upholding divine righteousness and establishing true justice through His atoning sacrifice. Ultimately, Jesus, who was "able to abase" the proud, instead allowed Himself to be abased on the cross, only to be supremely exalted by God ([Philippians 2:8-9](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8-9 - Christ's Exaltation")). Thus, Nebuchadnezzar's testimony of God's sovereignty and ability to humble the proud foreshadows the greater truth that in Christ, God's ultimate power is revealed not only in judgment but supremely in redemptive humility, offering grace to all who, like Nebuchadnezzar, acknowledge His supreme Kingship and humble themselves before Him ([Matthew 23:12](/matthew/23-12 "Matthew 23:12 - Humility and Exaltation")).

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

James 4:6

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

James 4:7

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Psalms 33:4

For the word of the LORD [is] right; and all his works [are done] in truth.

Psalms 33:5

He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.

1 Peter 5:5

¶ Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

1 Peter 5:6

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

1 Samuel 2:3

Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let [not] arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the LORD [is] a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.