Daniel 2:19
Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven.
Original Language Analysis
דִֽי
H1768
דִֽי
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
4 of 12
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
רָזָ֣א
was the secret
H7328
רָזָ֣א
was the secret
Strong's:
H7328
Word #:
6 of 12
to attenuate, i.e., (figuratively) hide; a mystery
Cross References
Numbers 12:6And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.Psalms 25:14The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.Amos 3:7Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.Daniel 7:7After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns.Daniel 1:17As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.Job 4:13In thoughts from the visions of the night, when deep sleep falleth on men,
Historical Context
Night visions were recognized means of divine communication in the ancient world (cf. Genesis 46:2; Job 33:15). Unlike divination which sought to manipulate divine knowledge through ritual, true prophecy came through God's initiative at His timing. The communal prayer meeting (2:17-18) reflects Jewish prayer practices emphasizing corporate intercession. Daniel and friends risked their lives on confidence that Yahweh, not Babylonian gods, controls mysteries.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's revelation in answer to prayer demonstrate His responsiveness to those who seek Him earnestly?
- What does Daniel's immediate worship response teach about proper reception of divine insight versus prideful self-exaltation?
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Analysis & Commentary
God reveals the mystery to Daniel 'in a night vision' after the prayer meeting with his companions (2:17-18). The Hebrew term chezev (vision) indicates direct divine disclosure, contrasting with the Chaldeans' interpretive methods. God answers prayer precisely at the point of need, demonstrating sovereignty and faithfulness. Daniel's immediate response is worship (2:20-23), modeling proper reception of revelation—thankfulness to God rather than personal pride. This reveals the proper relationship between prayer, revelation, and worship: we ask God, He reveals truth, we respond with gratitude and praise.