{"id":1074,"date":"2018-01-30T16:03:08","date_gmt":"2018-01-30T15:03:08","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/?p=1074"},"modified":"2018-01-30T16:14:51","modified_gmt":"2018-01-30T15:14:51","slug":"studies-in-the-book-of-daniel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/2018\/01\/30\/studies-in-the-book-of-daniel\/","title":{"rendered":"Studies in the Book of Daniel"},"content":{"rendered":"

Studies in the Book of Daniel
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Installment IV
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THE GOLDEN IMAGE OF NEBUCHADNEZZAR
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IN THE SECOND CHAPTER of Daniel, as we have already seen, is a record of the metallic image vision which God had shown to Nebuchadnezzar, and which Daniel interpreted for him when the contents of the vision vanished from his mind. Doubtless Nebuchadnezzar had thought much concerning the significance of the revelation which God had made to him–especially so since he was represented as the head of gold. His thoughts and his imagination probably worked overtime. His self-glorification, his colossal conceit and his vain imaginings were running wild and probably were the occasion and cause of his erecting a golden image, which he set up in the plain of Dura of the Province of Babylon.<\/p>\n

I. Nebuchadnezzar’s Image<\/center><\/p>\n

„Nebuchadnezzar the king made an image of gold, whose height was threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof six cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon“ (Dan. 3:1).<\/p>\n

From this verse we learn that Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold and set it up in the plain of Dura.<\/p>\n

Someone has suggested that possibly Nebuchadnezzar was led to make this colossal image because on his invasion of Egypt he saw the mighty and impressive statue of Ramses the Great. Some of the Assyrian kings erected statues of themselves and set them up in conquered territories–symbols of their conquests. This supposition must be interpreted in the light of verse 14: „Nebuchadnezzar answered and said unto them, Is it of purpose, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, that ye serve not my god, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? It is quite possible that this statue was set up in honor of the Babylonian gods. The archeologists have not as yet located the plain of Dura. One may, be certain that it was somewhere not far distant from the great city of Babylon.<\/p>\n

The image was made of gold and was sixty cubits high and six cubits broad (90 feet high and 12 feet broad). Was the image made of solid gold, or was it made of some other metal and overlaid with gold? One can never be able to answer that question.<\/p>\n

We are told that history repeats itself. Recognizing this principle, one is reminded of the image of the Antichrist which will be dedicated in the ceremony of the Jewish Temple at Jerusalem in the middle of the Tribulation (Revelation, chapter 13).<\/p>\n

II. The Royal Proclamation<\/center><\/p>\n

„Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the satraps, the deputies, and the governors, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up. 3 Then the satraps, the deputies, and the governors, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, were gathered together unto the dedication of the image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up; and they stood before the image that Nebuchadnezzar had set up“ (Dan. 3:2,3).<\/p>\n

Nebuchadnezzar sent out a proclamation to the various officials of the government to attend a special dedicatory service of the image. This affair was of special national importance–probably unifying and strengthening the government in its various phases.<\/p>\n

III. The call to Worship<\/center><\/p>\n

„Then the herald cried aloud, To you it is commanded, O peoples, nations, and languages, 5 that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of music, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up; 6 and whoso falleth not down and worshippeth shall the same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. 7 Therefore at that time, when all the peoples heard the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and all kinds of music, all the peoples, the nations, and the languages, fell down and worshipped the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up“ (Dan. 3:4-7).<\/p>\n

At the proper time the herald sounded forth the call to worship. The response was all but unanimous. All the peoples, the nations, and the languages were united in their worship of the image. They were all of one mind and purpose.<\/p>\n

IV. Denunciation<\/center><\/p>\n

„Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and brought accusation against the Jews. 9 They answered and said to Nebuchadnezzar the king, O king, live for ever. 10 Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of music, shall fall down and worship the golden image; 11 and whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, shall be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. 12 There are certain Jews whom thou hast appointed over the affairs of the province of Babylon: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up“ (Dan. 3:8-12).<\/p>\n

Certain Chaldeans–the priestly group–brought accusation against the Jews, Note the reading; They „brought accusation against the Jews.“ From this circumstance we see that anti-Semitism was active and aggressive. In the customary manner these Chaldeans addressed Nebuchadnezzar, saying „0 King, live forever.“ They recalled that the king had issued a proclamation that every man at the proper time in the ceremony should fall down and worship the golden image which he had „set up,“ and that everyone who might not obey should be cast into the fiery furnace. Then, as proof of their allegation, they named the three Hebrews–Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego–as being guilty of violating the king’s orders, calling attention to the fact that „they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.“<\/p>\n

V. An Offer of Clemency<\/center><\/p>\n

„Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. Then they brought these men before the king. 14 Nebuchadnezzar answered and said unto them, Is it of purpose, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, that ye serve not my god, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? 15 Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of music, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made, well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that god that shall deliver you out of my hands?“ (Dan: 3:13-15).<\/p>\n

The fact that these three Hebrews had violated the positive decree of Nebuchadnezzar caused him to fly into a rage. The king interpreted their refusal to worship as a personal affront to himself. Somehow or other he was able to get possession of himself, became more considerate, and gave them another chance. He asked Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego if their refusal to worship was of purpose. Therefore, he was willing to allow them another opportunity to comply with the decree.<\/p>\n

VI. Unswerving Confidence in God<\/center><\/p>\n

„Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer thee in this matter. 17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out of thy hand, O king. 18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up“ (Dan. 3:16-18).<\/span><\/p>\n

These Hebrews knew that it was useless to argue with this enraged monarch, and therefore they said, „0 Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer thee in this matter. If it be so<\/i><\/span>, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out of thy hand, 0 king. But if not, be it known unto thee, 0 king that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.“ The immortal words of this quotation should encourage all believers to take a positive stand against evil and oppression. These men knew that the God who created the universe is able to solve every situation and to deliver His faithful servants who trust Him–if it be according to His will for them.<\/span><\/p>\n

When King Herod put forth his hand against the Apostle James, he slew him. At the same time he purposed to slay the Apostle Peter, who was in prison and who was scheduled to die the next day; but the Lord sent His angel who opened the doors of the prison and delivered him. It was not the will of God to deliver the Apostle James because his work on earth, was done. But it was His will to deliver Peter for further service. God works all things together for good for those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28).<\/p>\n

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VII. The Enraged Monarch
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„Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace seven times more than it was wont to be heated. 20 And he commanded certain mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace. 21 Then these men were bound in their hosen, their tunics, and their mantles, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. 22 Therefore because the king’s commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. 23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace“ (Dan. 3:19-23).<\/span><\/p>\n

When these Hebrews took a bold stand for God, saying the Almighty was able to deliver them out of Nebuchadnezzar’s hand, the king’s rage and fury knew no bounds. He therefore ordered that the fiery furnace be made seven times hotter than usual. Moreover, he commanded that these Hebrews should be bound hand and foot and be thrown into the fiery furnace. The mighty men who put them into the furnace were overcome with heat and killed.<\/p>\n

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VIII. Four in Fiery Furnace
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„Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste: he spake and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. 25 He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the aspect of the fourth is like a son of the gods“ (Dan. 3:24,25).<\/span><\/p>\n

When Nebuchadnezzar saw that Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego were not harmed by the roaring flames, he was astounded. Then he arose in haste to consult with his counsellors, asking them if they had not thrown three men into the fire. They replied in the affirmative. Then Nebuchadnezzar exclaimed, „Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the aspect of the fourth is like a son of the gods.“<\/p>\n

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IX. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego Unharmed
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„Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace: he spake and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, ye servants of the Most High God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego came forth out of the midst of the fire. 27 And the satraps, the deputies, and the governors, and the king’s counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, that the fire had no power upon their bodies, nor was the hair of their head singed, neither were their hosen changed, nor had the smell of fire passed on them “ (Dan. 3:26,27).<\/span><\/p>\n

Nebuchadnezzar came near the mouth of the furnace and spoke to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, „Ye servants of the Most High God, come forth, and come hither.“ When they came forth, all the officers noted the fact that these three men were unharmed, there being no visible sign of their having been near the fire.<\/p>\n

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X. An Unexpected Decree
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„Nebuchadnezzar spake and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king’s word, and have yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. 29 Therefore I make a decree, that every people, nation, and language, which speak anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill; because there is no other god that is able to deliver after this sort. 30 Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego in the province of Babylon“ (Dan. 3:28-30).<\/span><\/p>\n

The Lord God Almighty who created the entire universe, and in whom we live and move and have our continual being, on this occasion demonstrated that He was, He is, and He shall continue to be the unquestioned Sovereign of the universe. He is able to solve all problems of His children who trust Him. If necessary, He will perform a miracle in behalf of His faithful servants.<\/p>\n

The Scriptures teach that in the last days perilous times will come. If persecution should come upon any of us, let us take our stand definitely as did Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, being convinced that „our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out of thy hand, 0 king. But if not, be it known unto thee, 0 king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.“<\/p>\n

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Studies in the Book of Daniel<\/p>\n

Installment V<\/p>\n

THE VISION OF THE TREE<\/p>\n

IN DANIEL, CHAPTER 4, one reads of another vision granted to Nebuchadnezzar. In the Masoretic text of the Hebrew Scriptures the first three verses of chapter 4 are considered a conclusion to the third chapter. Some scholars have argued that these verses are a fitting sequel to the third chapter. The American Standard Version 1901 edition, however, understands that they are an introduction to chapter 4. In view of all the facts it is quite possible that the second interpretation is the correct one.<\/p>\n

I. The Royal Proclamation<\/p>\n

„Nebuchadnezzar the king, unto all the peoples, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth: Peace be multiplied unto you. 2 It hath seemed good unto me to show the signs and wonders that the Most High God hath wrought toward me. 3 How great are his signs! and how mighty are his wonders! his kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and his dominion is from generation to generation“ (Dan. 4:1-3).<\/p>\n

This proclamation is addressed to all peoples, nations, and languages that dwell in all the earth. It is quite probable that this proclamation, broad as it is, is an echo of Nebuchadnezzar’s understanding of the Lord’s promise to him, found in Daniel 2:38: „and wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the birds of the heavens hath he given into thy hand, and hath made thee to rule over them all: thou art the head of gold.“ Nebuchadnezzar, being the proud, haughty monarch that he was, could very easily proclaim to all peoples that he was lord of the earth. The words, „Peace be multiplied unto you,“ was characteristic of oriental monarchs of his day.<\/p>\n

Notwithstanding his inflated ego, he declared that it was his purpose to show to the world the signs and the wonders which the Most High God had wrought. He could not get away from the impact which the mighty words of God made upon his heart. He therefore shouted aloud that the Most High God is the Creator of the universe, whose Kingdom will last forever and ever.<\/p>\n

II. A Disturbed Rest<\/p>\n

„I, Nebuchadnezzar, was at rest in my house, and flourishing in my palace. 5 I saw a dream which made me afraid; and the thoughts upon my bed and the visions of my head troubled me. 6 Therefore made I a decree to bring in all the wise men of Babylon before me, that they might make known unto me the interpretation of the dream. 7 Then came in the magicians, the enchanters, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers; and I told the dream before them; but they did not make known unto me the interpretation thereof“ (Dan. 4:4-7).<\/p>\n

As Nebuchadnezzar was at rest in his palace and was flourishing in his kingdom he lay down in peaceful rest. Suddenly he had a dream that terrified him. He immediately issued a decree that all the magicians the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers come at once to interpret the dream. The Chaldeans and those dabbling in the occult responded to the royal summon, but were not able to interpret the dream.<\/p>\n

III. Daniel’s Appearance<\/p>\n

„But at the last Daniel came in before me, whose name was Belteshazzar, according to the name of my god, and in whom is the spirit of the holy gods: and I told the dream before him, saying, 9 O Belteshazzar, master of the magicians, because I know that the spirit of the holy gods is in thee, and no secret troubleth thee, tell me the visions of my dream that I have seen, and the interpretation thereof“ (Dan. 4:8, 9).<\/p>\n

Although Daniel was the master of the magicians, for some reason he did not appear when the others came to interpret the dream. When they signally failed to give the interpretation, Daniel put in his appearance. Nebuchadnezzar had a very high regard for him, because he believed that the „spirit of the holy gods“ was in Daniel. He therefore believed that Daniel would speak the truth, and give the interpretation.<\/p>\n

IV. The Tree of the Vision<\/p>\n

„Thus were the visions of my head upon my bed: I saw, and, behold, a tree in the midst of the earth; and the height thereof was great. 11 The tree grew, and was strong, and the height thereof reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to the end of all the earth. 12 The leaves thereof were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was food for all: the beasts of the field had shadow under it, and the birds of the heavens dwelt in the branches thereof, and all flesh was fed from it“ (Dan. 4:10-12).<\/p>\n

In this block of Scripture we see the tree which was shown to Nebuchadnezzar in his dream. This tree was a mighty one. It grew, became strong, and its height reached to heaven, and the sight of it extended to the ends of all the earth. It afforded food and shelter for both man and beast.<\/p>\n

V. Pronouncement of Judgment<\/p>\n

„I saw in the visions of my head upon my bed, and, behold, a watcher and a holy one came down from heaven. 14 He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cut off its branches, shake off its leaves, and scatter its fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from its branches. 15 Nevertheless leave the stump of its roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven: and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth: 16 let his heart be changed from man’s, and let a beast’s heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him“ (Dan. 4:13-16).<\/p>\n

As Nebuchadnezzar was alarmingly transfixed by the sight of the wonderful tree, „A watcher and a holy one came down from heaven“ and with a shout ordered: „Hew down the tree, and cut off its branches, shake off its leaves, and scatter its fruit….“ The stump was to be left with a band of iron and brass.<\/p>\n

The appearance of the celestial herald, his message, and the authority with which he ordered the destruction of the tree are reminiscent of certain fundamental passages which speak of the Almighty as being the supreme ruler of His universe and His Kingdom. Read I Kings 22:19; Job, chapters 1 and 2; Jeremiah 23:18; Daniel 7:9; Psalm 103:19,20. From the Scriptures we get a glimpse at the Kingdom of God and the innumerable hosts of celestial beings who carry out and execute the orders of the Almighty.<\/p>\n

The hewing down of the tree and the binding of the stump of the tree with a band of iron and brass are thus interpreted: „Let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth: 16 let his heart be changed from man’s, and let a beast’s heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him.“ It is clear in the light of this quotation that the tree symbolizes Nebuchadnezzar. The changing of a king’s heart from that of a man into that of a beast signifies that he would be smitten with some form of mental derangement in which he thought of himself as being a certain beast. Thus imagining himself to be a beast, he acted like one. He was to remain in this state for a period of seven times. What is a time? By comparing related passages in the Book of Daniel with those in Revelation, we see that this word is a Biblical synonym for a year.<\/p>\n

VI. Conclusion of the Dream<\/p>\n

„The sentence 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 lowest of men. 18 This dream I, king Nebuchadnezzar, have seen; and thou, O Belteshazzar, declare the interpretation, forasmuch as all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known unto me the interpretation; but thou art able; for the spirit of the holy gods is in thee“ (Dan. 4:17,18).<\/p>\n

The sentence, which is mentioned in verses 13-16, Nebuchadnezzar is told, is „the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones.“ But what the watchers and the holy ones (celestial beings) do is but the carrying out of the will of the Almighty. God wants men to know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men and that He turns over authority to rule to whomsoever He will–even setting over it in certain instances „the lowest of men.“ Read carefully Jeremiah 27:1-11. In this last statement is echoed the fact that Nebuchadnezzar was from humble origin.<\/p>\n

Since the wise men were unable to interpret the dream, Nebuchadnezzar requested Daniel to interpret it.<\/p>\n

VII. Daniel Perturbed<\/p>\n

„Then Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, was stricken dumb for a while, and his thoughts troubled him. The king answered and said, Belteshazzar, let not the dream, or the interpretation, trouble thee. Belteshazzar answered and said, My lord, the dream be to them that hate thee, and the interpretation thereof to thine adversaries“ (Dan. 4:19).<\/p>\n

Figuratively speaking, Daniel was swept off his feet and could not speak for a while. When at Nebuchadnezzar’s insistence that he should speak, Daniel replied: „My lord, the dream be to them that hate thee, and the interpretation thereof to thine adversaries.“<\/p>\n

VIII. The King’s Greatness<\/p>\n

„The tree that thou sawest, which grew, and was strong, whose height reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to all the earth; 21 whose leaves were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was food for all; under which the beasts of the field dwelt, and upon whose branches the birds of the heavens had their habitation: 22 it is thou, O king, that art grown and become strong; for thy greatness is grown, and reacheth unto heaven, and thy dominion to the end of the earth“ (Dan. 4:20-22).<\/p>\n

Daniel interpreted the vision of this mighty tree as the setting forth of Nebuchadnezzar to whom had been given world dominion, as a mighty sovereign.<\/p>\n

IX. The Sentence<\/p>\n

„And whereas the king saw a watcher and a holy one coming down from heaven, and saying, Hew down the tree, and destroy it; nevertheless leave the stump of the roots thereof in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field, and let it be wet with the dew of heaven: and let his portion be with the beasts of the field, till seven times pass over him; 24 this is the interpretation, O king, and it is the decree of the Most High, which is come upon my lord the king: 25 that thou shalt be driven from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and thou shalt be made to eat grass as oxen, and shalt be wet with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over thee; till thou know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will. 26 And whereas they commanded to leave the stump of the roots of the tree; thy kingdom shall be sure unto thee, after that thou shalt have known that the heavens do rule“ (Dan 4:23-26).<\/p>\n

In this block of Scripture Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar’s dream to him. Although in the dream the watcher and the holy one pronounces the sentence of judgment against Nebuchadnezzar, Daniel shows that the Most High is the one who issues the decree. Nebuchadnezzar is to remain in this wretched condition—living on the level with the beasts–for seven years „till thou know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.“ Daniel assures the king that when he had learned his lesson well, he would be restored to his kingdom.<\/p>\n

X. Daniel’s Plea<\/p>\n

„Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by showing mercy to the poor; if there may be a lengthening of thy tranquility“ (Dan. 4:27).<\/p>\n

Daniel insisted that the king break off his sins by living righteously and administering a righteous rule over his subjects and by extending mercy to the poor–instead of grinding them to powder, as so many rulers do.<\/p>\n

XI. Royal Pride<\/p>\n

„All this came upon the king Nebuchadnezzar. 29 At the end of twelve months he was walking in the royal palace of Babylon. 30 The king spake and said, Is not this great Babylon, which I have built for the royal dwelling-place, by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?“ (Dan 4:28-30).<\/p>\n

Pride was the cause of Satan’s rebellion and downfall.
\n„Pride goeth before destruction,
\nAnd a haughty spirit before a fall“ (Prov. 16:18).<\/p>\n

Pride is a spiritual disease which afflicts the bulk of humanity. Almost every type of sin can result from it. Pride is an abomination in the sight of God.<\/p>\n

Man is utterly dependent upon God for all things. „Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights. …“ (James 1:17a). „A man can receive nothing, except it have been given him from heaven“ (John 3:27). It is difficult for men to learn some of the rudimentary, elementary principles of life. Unfortunately most people have to learn the hard way. It does seem incredible that Nebuchadnezzar, after having so very many marvelous experiences and after witnessing such great manifestations of God’s overruling providence, could still strut around like a peacock and say „Is not this great Babylon, which I have built … by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?“<\/p>\n

XII. The Fall of Judgment<\/p>\n

„While the word was in the king’s mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, saying, O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken: The kingdom is departed from thee: 32 and thou shalt be driven from men; and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field; thou shalt be made to eat grass as oxen; and seven times shall pass over thee; until thou know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will. 33 The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar: and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hair was grown like eagles‘ feathers, and his nails like birds‘ claws“ (Dan 4:31-33).<\/p>\n

It is certain that Satan had blinded the eyes of Nebuchadnezzar. Only on this basis can one understand the seeming dullness of an otherwise shrewd executive and ruler.<\/p>\n

XIII. Recovery<\/p>\n

„And at the end of the days I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the Most High, and I praised and honored him that liveth for ever; for his dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom from generation to generation. 35 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?“ (Dan 4:34-35).<\/p>\n

By the mercies and the goodness of God, the Lord lifted the thick veil of darkness with which Satan had blinded Nebuchadnezzar. For the good of humanity and for Nebuchadnezzar’s sake the Lord extended to Nebuchadnezzar special grace on this occasion, that all men might know that the Most High is the lone sovereign of the universe and that His kingdom is an everlasting one. In this connection the reader should Study I Chronicles 29:10-19.<\/p>\n

XIV. Restoration of the Kingdom<\/p>\n

„At the same time mine understanding returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, my majesty and brightness returned unto me; and my counsellors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent greatness was added unto me. 37 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“ (Dan. 4:36,37).<\/p>\n

Nebuchadnezzar learned that those that walk in pride, He (God) will abase. He therefore addressed a proclamation to all nations that God is the lone Sovereign of the universe and that His kingdom is an everlasting one.<\/p>\n

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Studies in the Book of Daniel
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Installment VI
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BELSHAZZAR’S DOWNFALL
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THE HISTORICAL PORTION of the book of Daniel, consisting of chapters 3 to 6, is of utmost value and should be studied prayerfully and carefully by every child of God; for they present the great and fundamental principles on which God deals with both individuals and empires. There is no wonder that the Apostle Paul, guided by the Holy Spirit, spoke of the Sacred Writings of the Scriptures as being profitable for teaching, correction, and instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work: „Every scripture inspired of God is also profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness: 17 that the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work.“ (II Tim. 3:16,17).<\/p>\n

I. Belshazzar’s Feast<\/center><\/p>\n

„Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand. 2 Belshazzar, while he tasted the wine, commanded to bring the golden and silver vessels which Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken out of the temple which was in Jerusalem; that the king and his lords, his wives and his concubines, might drink therefrom. 3 Then they brought the golden vessels that were taken out of the temple of the house of God which was at Jerusalem; and the king and his lords, his wives and his concubines, drank from them. 4 They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of stone.“ (Dan. 5:1-4).<\/p>\n

When Nebuchadnezzar died, his profligate son, Evil-Merodach, succeeded him on the throne of Babylon and reigned for less than two years. He was murdered by his brother-in-law, Neriglissar. He in turn was succeeded by his son Labashi-Marduk, who was overthrown by certain conspirators, chief among whom was Nabonidus, a native Babylonian. Nebonidus associated with himself his son, Belshazzar, in the government. Daniel speaks of Belshazzar as king, whereas Nebonidus was king. The true explanation of the facts was that probably Belshazzar was acting as his father’s viceroy. Daniel speaks of Nebuchadnezzar as being Belshazzar’s father. Whether or not Belshazzar was the grandson of Nebuchadnezzar by the marriage of Nebonidus to a daughter of Nebuchadnezzar, it is not possible to be positive. None of the contemporary tablets which record business transactions of the merchants of the city have the name of Belshazzar as king. „But this is to be expected since they would be dated in relation to the reigning king and not to a viceroy.“<\/p>\n

Daniel, chapter 5, is one of the most vivid, graphic, and dramatic chapters in the Book. One writer described the festival of Belshazzar in the following words: „It was clearly a scene of reckless abandon, of wanton folly, and of intolerable blasphemy, in which it was made suddenly and perfectly plain that the Almighty has not surrendered the control of the world or of the destinies of men.“<\/p>\n

Ancient oriental kings usually invited only the most important and highest dignitaries to their banquets. Belshazzar, on the other hand, invited a thousand of his nobles to this great banquet. Moreover, he invited his wives and his concubines.<\/p>\n

From verse 1 we learn that Belshazzar drank wine before the thousand of his lords. According to the customs of the times, such banquets as this one were started by the worship of pagan gods. The fact that Belshazzar drank wine before the thousand seems to imply that he had drunk quite a bit of wine and that it was taking effect upon him. Some expositors think, however, that Belshazzar, when he first tasted the wine, ordered his servants „to bring the golden and silver vessels which Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken out of the temple which was in Jerusalem,“ that he and his lords might drink therefrom. They therefore see a deliberate and wilful effort to defy and blaspheme God. Others think that he, being under the influence of wine, gave orders for bringing the vessels of the temple. Regardless of whether or not he, in his sober moments, gave the order to bring the vessels, or whether he was under the influence of liquor when he did so, he defied the true and living God.<\/p>\n

II. The Handwriting on the Wall<\/center><\/p>\n

„In the same hour came forth the fingers of a man’s hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaster of the wall of the king’s palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote. 6 Then the king’s countenance was changed in him, and his thoughts troubled him; and the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees smote one against another. 7 The king cried aloud to bring in the enchanters, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers. The king spake and said to the wise men of Babylon, Whosoever shall read this writing, and show me the interpretation thereof, shall be clothed with purple, and have a chain of gold about his neck, and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom. 8 Then came in all the king’s wise men; but they could not read the writing, nor make known to the king the interpretation. 9 Then was king Belshazzar greatly troubled, and his countenance was changed in him, and his lords were perplexed“ (vv. 5-9).<\/p>\n

Suddenly in the midst of the banquet appeared the fingers of a man’s hand, writing on the plaster of the wall over against the candlestick. The revelers were thrown into a panic when they came face to face with the supernatural. The miracle which was wrought was evidently accomplished by a celestial being who veiled his presence, allowing only the hand which was doing the writing to be seen. Belshazzar, terrified and trembling from head to foot, and with a changed countenance of bewilderment, called for the enchanters, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers to be brought into the banquet hall, that they might read and interpret the handwriting on the wall. When they came into the presence of the king, he demanded of them to read the inscription and to interpret its significance. He promised that the one who could read and interpret the writing correctly should be clothed in royal purple, that a chain of gold be placed about his neek, and that he be made the third ruler in the kingdom. But no one was able to interpret and read the writing.<\/p>\n

III. The Queen’s Intervention<\/center><\/p>\n

„Now the queen by reason of the words of the king and his lords came into the banquet house: the queen spake and said, O king, live forever; let not thy thoughts trouble thee, nor let thy countenance be changed. 11 There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of thy father light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, were found in him; and the king Nebuchadnezzar thy father, the king, I say, thy father, made him master of the magicians, enchanters, Chaldeans, and soothsayers; 12 forasmuch as an excellent spirit, and knowledge, and understanding, interpreting of dreams, and showing of dark sentences, and dissolving of doubts, were found in the same Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar. Now let Daniel be called, and he will show the interpretation“ (vv. 10-12).<\/p>\n

The queen came into the banquet hall because of the words of the king and his nobles when the entire audience was paralyzed with fear and expectation of what was about to be done. Who was this queen? Certainly she was not Belshazzar’s wife, for his wives and his concubines were already in the banquet hall. It has been suggested that probably she was the queen mother, the wife of the late Nebuchadnezzar.<\/p>\n

If this supposition be accepted as true, she was preeminently qualified to make the speech recorded in verses 10-12 of this chapter, for without a doubt she knew her husband as no one else knew him and was familiar with the historical facts concerning God’s special dealings with her husband. Moreover, she knew of Daniel and of his being a true prophet of God Most High. What she said, therefore, and the advice which she gave were eagerly received by Belshazzar and quickly acted upon.<\/p>\n

IV. Daniel Summoned<\/center><\/p>\n

„Then was Daniel brought in before the king. The king spake and said unto Daniel, Art thou that Daniel, who art of the children of the captivity of Judah, whom the king my father brought out of Judah? 14 I have heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom are found in thee. 15 And now the wise men, the enchanters, have been brought in before me, that they should read this writing, and make known unto me the interpretation thereof; but they could not show the interpretation of the thing. 16 But I have heard of thee, that thou canst give interpretations, and dissolve doubts; now if thou canst read the writing, and make known to me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with purple, and have a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdom“ (vv. 13-16).<\/p>\n

When Daniel stood before King Belshazzar, the latter wanted to be certain that he was the Daniel of whom the queen mother had spoken, the one of whom he had heard that „the spirit of the holy gods“ inspired. Moreover, he had heard that this Daniel could give interpretation and dissolve doubts.<\/p>\n

Being convinced that the man standing before him was the true Daniel of whom he had heard, Belshazzar promised him that, if he would read the writing and make known to him the interpretation thereof, he (Daniel) would be clothed with purple, would have a chain of gold about his neck, and should be the third ruler in the kingdom.<\/p>\n

What is the significance of the promise to make Daniel the third ruler of the kingdom? As we have already seen, Nebonidus was king, and Belshazzar was his viceroy. Then Daniel would be next in rank below Belshazzar.<\/p>\n

V. The Gift Refused<\/center><\/p>\n

„Then Daniel answered and said before the king. Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another; nevertheless I will read the writing unto the king, and make known to him the interpretation“ (v. 17).<\/p>\n

One expositor explains why Daniel spurned Belshazzar’s gifts and honors, whereas he accepted honors and position from Nebuchadnezzar: „Daniel contemptuously refused the gifts proffered by the impious king and treated Belshazzar with the utmost asperity. The gifts of a king whose doom was sealed were of little value. However, he would read and interpret the mysterious writing, but without regard to any gift that might be offered. He had previously accepted gifts and honors from Nebuchadnezzar, of whose repentance there had been no doubt, but nothing would he accept from an unrepentant, though fearful, Belshazzar.“<\/p>\n

VI. The Example of Nebuchadnezzar<\/center><\/p>\n

„O thou king, the Most High God gave Nebuchadnezzar thy father the kingdom, and greatness, and glory, and majesty: 19 and because of the greatness that he gave him, all the peoples, nations, and languages trembled and feared before him: whom he would he slew, and whom he would he kept alive; and whom he would he raised up, and whom he would he put down. 20 But when his heart was lifted up, and his spirit was hardened so that he dealt proudly, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him: 21 and he was driven from the sons of men, and his heart was made like the beasts‘, and his dwelling was with the wild asses; he was fed with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven; until he knew that the Most High God ruleth in the kingdom of men, and that he setteth up over it whomsoever he will“ (vv. 18-21).<\/p>\n

In this section of the chapter, verses 18-21, with boldness and directness Daniel speaks of Belshazzar, calling attention to God’s dealing with Nebuchadnezzar. According to Daniel, God raised up Nebuchadnezzar from a lowly position in life to become an absolute monarch. God, so to speak, has a blueprint of the human family and the territories where each group should reside. His invisible hand is directing the movements of history, ruling and overruling all events and making everything work together in the carrying out of his plan of the ages. „The God that made the world and all things therein, he, being Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25 neither is he served by men’s hands, as though be needed anything, seeing he himself giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; 26 and he made of one every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed seasons, and the bounds of their habitation“ (Acts 17:24-26). The inspired writer of Psalm 135 informs us that God does His pleasure throughout the entire universe;<\/p>\n

„For I know that Jehovah is great,
\nAnd that our Lord is above all gods.
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\nIn heaven and in earth, in the seas and in all deeps;
\n7 Who causeth the vapors to ascend from the ends of the earth;
\nWho maketh lightnings for the rain;
\nWho bringeth forth the wind out of his treasuries“ (Ps. 135:5-7).<\/p>\n

God gave Nebuchadnezzar, „greatness, and glory and majesty.“ Because of such unlimited authority, all peoples, nations, and languages trembled at the presence of Nebuchadnezzar. On account of his having such absolute authority, he dealt with all according to his own pleasure and pride. When he became so very proud, God had to depose him for seven years until he knew that „the Most High God ruleth in the kingdom of men, and that he setteth up over it whomsoever he will“ (v. 21).<\/p>\n

As the curse which fell upon the world changed nature to a certain extent, so God’s curse fell upon Nebuchadnezzar, changing his thoughts and actions to those of a beast–for a seven year period. Thus Daniel held up the case of Nebuchadnezzar as a warning to Belshazzar, but the latter was impervious to truth and facts.<\/p>\n

VII. The Defiance of Belshazzar<\/center><\/p>\n

„And thou his son, 0 Belshazzar, hast not humbled thy heart, though thou knewest all this, 23 but hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou and thy lords, thy wives and thy concubines, have drunk wine from them; and thou hast praised the gods of silver and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know; and the God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast thou not glorified. 24 Then was the part of the hand sent from before him, and this writing was inscribed“ (vv. 22-24).<\/p>\n

Although Belshazzar had his father Nebuchadnezzar as a stern warning against pride, conceit, and self-sufficiency, he reached the point at which he did not hesitate to defy God Almighty. Like many people, Belshazzar learned his lesson the hard way. Setting his face like a flint against the Most High God, he sinned against light and did not hesitate to fling defiance in the face of God by giving the order that the vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the temple in Jerusalem, be prostituted to an unholy use. Evidently his rejection of the light, which shown from God’s dealing with Nebuchadnezzar, blinded his eyes so that he could not see facts and truths which were as clear as the noon-day sun.<\/p>\n

VIII. Daniel’s Interpretation of the Writing<\/center><\/p>\n

„And this is the writing that was inscribed: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN. 26 This is the interpretation of the thing: MENE; God hath numbered thy kingdom, and brought it to an end; 27 TEKEL; thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting. 28 PERES; thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians“ (vv. 25-28).<\/p>\n

Neither King Belshazzar nor anyone present could read the writing and give its interpretation. Why the difficulty? Some think the writing was Aramaic or Sumerian. Others think that it was not written in the usual contemporary style, but in an archaic type of Aramaic. Still others suggest that the difficulty lay in the arrangement of the letters and of the words. Since there is no positive evidence as to which position is the correct one, and since this uncertainty does not affect the import of the writing, we do well not to speculate. The word MENE is repeated, which means „numbered.“ TEKEL means Weighed“ and PERES means „divided.“ It is quite evident that this writing is elliptical. This fact is seen by Daniel’s reading an explanation, for the Prophet said that MENE means „God has numbered thy kingdom, and brought it to an end“; the word TEKEL means „Thou art weighed in the balances and found wanting“; PERES, according to Daniel, means „divided.“ „Thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians.“ Some interpreters see in this last word a play on words, for Daniel said that the kingdom was given to the Medes and Persians.<\/p>\n

IX. Daniel’s Reward<\/center><\/p>\n

„Then commanded Belshazzar, and they clothed Daniel with purple, and put a chain of gold about his neck, and made proclamation concerning him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom“ (v. 29).<\/p>\n

When Belshazzar offered to heap honors upon Daniel, the prophet refused them. When, however, the prophet read and interpreted the writing, Belshazzar commanded that the honors be bestowed on Daniel. Was Daniel fickle in refusing the honors and then accepting them? Daniel could have politely refused the honors, but he could not reject them when the king commanded that these honors be bestowed upon him. „The laws of the Medes and Persians altereth not,“ He therefore accepted them because he was convinced that God overrules all events and makes them contribute to the carrying on of His eternal plans and purposes.<\/p>\n

X. The Passing Away of the Babylonian Empire<\/center><\/p>\n

„In that night Belshazzar the Chaldean king was slain. 31 And Darius the Mede received the kingdom, being about threescore and two years old“ (vv. 30,31).<\/span><\/p>\n

The prophecy concerning the fall of Babylon in Isaiah, chapters 13 and 14, has never been fulfilled, but awaits its fulfillment in the Day of Jehovah, the Great Tribulation. The prophecies seen in Jeremiah, chapters 50 and 51, have been only partially fulfilled, but certain portions of them await fulfillment in the Tribulation. These prophecies of Jeremiah constitute an example of the Law of Double Reference. The prophecies concerning the overthrow of Babylon, of Revelation, chapter 18, most definitely await fulfillment in the Great Tribulation.<\/p>\n

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Studies in the Book of Daniel<\/p>\n

Installment VII<\/p>\n

DANIEL IN THE LION’S DEN<\/p>\n

DARIUS, THE MEDE received the kingdom of Babylon when it was conquered and taken over by the Medes and the Persians. This event occurred in the year 538 B.C. For two years Darius administered the affairs of state. Nothing is known for certain about the happenings of his time except the beginning of his reign.<\/p>\n

I. Organization of the Medo-Persian Empire<\/p>\n

„It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom a hundred and twenty satraps, who should be throughout the whole kingdom; 2 and over them three presidents, of whom Daniel was one; that these satraps might give account unto them, and that the king should have no damage. 3 Then this Daniel was distinguished above the presidents and the satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm“ (Dan. 6:1-3).<\/p>\n

One of Darius‘ first official acts seems to have been to appoint a satrap over each of the one hundred and twenty provinces into which the empire was divided. Over these officials he appointed a committee of three, who are called presidents. As the chairman of this supreme body, Daniel was chosen. Thus he was what might be termed in modem political language the prime minister. In this position he exercised the authority next to the king himself.<\/p>\n

Men of intelligence and reason always select men who are qualified to fill the positions of trust and responsibility. We are told (6:3) that Daniel was chosen by Darius, because „an excellent spirit was in him.“ Volumes are wrapped up in that quotation. Daniel had the right outlook and the correct attitude toward God, the king, his immediate associates of the committee, and the satraps who were under him, and his colleagues. An excellent spirit is one that is cheerful and happy. It holds the highest ideals of righteousness and justice toward all and desires nothing but the best for everyone concerned.<\/p>\n

In addition to possessing an excellent spirit, we may be sure that he was thoroughly qualified to perform the duties of the office to which the king appointed him. Those men today who are filling positions of honor and trust qualify, not only from an intellectual and experimental standpoint, but also from the spiritual aspect. The finer qualities of life are located in this realm. All things being equal, those possessing these characteristics are the ones who are always elevated to the higher callings of life.<\/p>\n

II. An Attack of Satan<\/p>\n

„Then the presidents and the satraps sought to find occasion against Daniel as touching the kingdom; but they could find no occasion nor fault, forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him. 5 Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of his God“ (Dan. 6:4,5).<\/p>\n

Satan hates God and all the people of God. He is ever on the alert to make a stroke at the Almighty, by whatever means he can. Furthermore, the closer one lives to the Lord, the more vehement is Satan’s anger against him. To everyone who reads the book of Daniel, it becomes apparent that Daniel was a God-fearing man–one who worshiped his God, and who served his fellowman to the best of his ability. Such a person is an immediate target for Satan. He, therefore, stirred up the hearts of Daniel’s immediate colleagues and their subordinate satraps to manufacture a complaint against him. His walk was so very straight, his dealings so very just, and his life so very free from sin that they could not conjure up a case against him in any wise. Being determined, however, to accomplish his downfall, his enemies conspired against him and influenced the king to issue a strong interdict forbidding one’s calling upon any god for a period of thirty days or making a request of anyone except the king.<\/p>\n

III. A Foolish, Hasty Decree<\/p>\n

„Then these presidents and satraps assembled together to the king, and said thus unto him. King, Darius, live forever, 7 All the presidents of the kingdom, the deputies and the satraps, the counsellors and the governors, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a strong interdict, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any god or man for thirty days, save of thee, 0 king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. 8 Now, 0 king, establish the interdict, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. 9 Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the interdict“ (Dan. 6:6-9).<\/p>\n

When this decree had been drawn up, the king unwittingly signed it. With the Medes and Persians the laws never altered. Thus a grave situation confronted Daniel.<\/p>\n

IV. Daniel, a Man of Prayer<\/p>\n

And when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; (now his windows were open in his chamber toward Jerusalem;) and he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime. 11 Then these men assembled together, and found Daniel making petition and supplication before his God“ (Dan. 6:10,11).<\/p>\n

In this great crisis Daniel, according to his custom, continued to worship God. From verse 10 we see that it was his custom to pray at his open window looking toward Jerusalem, as Solomon (I Kings 8) had designated. In this connection keep in mind that that royal decree forbade anyone’s praying to his god or making any request of anyone except of the king. The question for Daniel to decide was whether or not he would be true to his God or yield to the unrighteous and unreasonable interdict. Daniel, knowing God and walking with Him, believed that He does hear the cries of His people. Hence he continued his prayer-life as he had always done. He went to his accustomed place, worshiped, and thanked God–offering his petitions three times a day as he was accustomed to do.<\/p>\n

V. Report to the King<\/p>\n

„Then they came near, and spake before the king concerning the king’s interdict: Hast thou not signed an interdict, that every man that shall make petition unto any god or man within thirty days, save unto thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions? The king answered and said, The thing is true, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. 13 Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, who is of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the interdict that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day“ (Dan. 6:12,13).<\/p>\n

This situation was exactly what his enemies had desired. Hence, upon seeing him praying, they immediately went to the king and brought an indictment against him for having disregarded the imperial decree. Daniel enjoyed the king’s favor. Since the laws of the Medes and Persians neither varied nor altered, the monarch was in a most embarrassing position. His heart was grieved because his friend and favorite officer had been ensnared in this trap, which the devil had set for him.<\/p>\n

VI. The Execution of the Decree<\/p>\n

„Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him; and he labored till the going down of the sun to rescue him. 15 Then these men assembled together unto the king, and said unto the king, Know, O king, that it is a law of the Medes and Persians, that no interdict nor statute which the king establisheth may be changed. 16 Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee. 17 And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel. 18 Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting; neither were instruments of music brought before him: and his sleep fled from him“ (Dan. 6:14-18).<\/p>\n

The penalty according to the interdict was that Daniel should be cast into the den of the lions to be torn limb from limb by them. Although Darius wished to deliver Daniel from such a horrible experience, he was unable to do so. Nevertheless he hoped that God in some miraculous way would preserve him. His words to this faithful man of God before he was cast into the den of lions were, „Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee.“ Evidently Daniel had lived an exemplary life before Darius. God had answered his prayers in such a way as to impress the heart of the king that God does hear and answer prayer. Hence Darius thus spoke. It is not to be inferred that he believed in the true God, for he was a heathen. Without doubt his respect for Daniel’s God was very great.<\/p>\n

Since the laws of the realm could not be altered, a stone was brought and laid over the mouth of the den and the king’s signet was placed upon it and that of his lords in order that no one would make any attempt to deliver Daniel. When this was done, the king returned to his palace, passing the night in fasting. His heart was burdened and distressed; hence he would not have any instruments of music brought before him. That night he could not sleep. It probably was one of the most restless nights that he ever spent.<\/p>\n

VII. God’s Answering Prayer<\/p>\n

„Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions. 20 And when he came near unto the den to Daniel, he cried with a lamentable voice; the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions? 21 Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever. 22 My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions‘ mouths, and they have not hurt me; forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt. 23 Then was the king exceeding glad, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he had trusted in his God“ (Dan. 6:19-23).<\/p>\n

Early the next morning the king hastened to the lion’s den. Upon arrival he cried with a lamentable voice, „0 Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?“ This statement shows that, though he did have faith in Daniel’s God, he did not understand the Almighty’s purpose. Daniel’s immediate reply was, „0 king, live forever. My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions‘ mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, 0 king, have I done no hurt.“ He had no resentment in his heart because of what had been done to him. This is a most excellent example for us to follow.<\/p>\n

This great man of God understood that his preservation was due to a miracle–the Lord sent His angel who shut the mouths of the lions. On account of the erroneous teaching in the world today concerning the ministry of angels, many of us refrain from calling attention to the service which they render to the people of God. The writer of Hebrews (1:14) declares that they are ministering spirits sent forth to do service for them that shall inherit salvation. The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear the Lord and delivereth them. Our lives would have been snuffed out many a time if it had not been for the service rendered by these ministering angels.<\/p>\n

The Lord is looking after every one of His children. He always plans that which will bring the greatest amount of good to each one. In fact He has a plan and purpose for each of them. If they yield to Him, He will use them in the highest and noblest manner. On the other hand, if they will not yield, He will use them in a less honorable plan. Nevertheless He will use them.<\/p>\n

Man’s extremity is God’s opportunity. Daniel was in a helpless condition. He called upon his God and looked to Him for deliverance. The Lord never disappoints one when he is absolutely trusting.<\/p>\n

The king was delighted that the Lord had preserved the life of His faithful servant. Daniel was immediately taken from the lions‘ den and restored, evidently, to his former position.<\/p>\n

VIII. The Retribution of the Wicked<\/p>\n

„And the king commanded, and they brought those men that had accused Daniel, and they cast them into the den of lions, them, their children, and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and brake all their bones in pieces, before they came to the bottom of the den“ (Dan. 6:24).<\/p>\n

Man reaps what he sows. This is a law which is unchangeable and is operative in both the physical and spiritual realms. The king, realizing that Daniel’s enemies had through jealousy ensnared him into issuing the decree and seeing that God delivered His faithful servant, immediately commanded that they, together with their families, should be thrown into the lions‘ den. This edict was carried out and the lions immediately crushed their bodies. Sooner or later in God’s good time He will bring retribution upon men for all their wickedness.<\/p>\n

IX. The Recognition of the Almighty<\/p>\n

„Then king Darius wrote unto all the peoples, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth: Peace be multiplied unto you. 26 I make a decree, that in all the dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel; for he is the living God, and stedfast for ever, And his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed; and his dominion shall be even unto the end. 27 He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions“ (Dan. 6:25-27).<\/p>\n

Darius, seeing that which had been done immediately issued a decree which was to be effective throughout his dominion. According to it, men should fear the God of Daniel, who, he declared, was the living God and whose dominion shall be unto the end. Following this declaration he proclaimed the fact that God, who rescued Daniel, can and does perform miracles. When it is necessary, the Lord will break through the natural order and rescue his faithful servants.<\/p>\n

X. Daniel’s Prosperity<\/p>\n

„So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian“ (Dan. 6:28).<\/p>\n

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weiter<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Studies in the Book of Daniel Installment IV THE GOLDEN IMAGE OF NEBUCHADNEZZAR IN THE SECOND CHAPTER of Daniel, as we have already seen, is a record of the metallic image vision which God had shown to Nebuchadnezzar, and which Daniel interpreted for him when the contents of the vision vanished from his mind. Doubtless … <\/p>\n

\u201eStudies in the Book of Daniel\u201c <\/span>weiterlesen<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1074","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-allgemein"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1074","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1074"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1074\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1095,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1074\/revisions\/1095"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1074"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1074"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/buch.jehovah-shammah.de\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1074"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}