Daniel 2:20

Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his:

Word-by-Word Analysis

עָנֵ֤ה

H6032

answered

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

דָֽנִיֵּאל֙

H1841

Daniel

danijel, the hebrew prophet

וְאָמַ֔ר

H560

and said

to speak, to command

לֶהֱוֵ֨א

H1934

to exist; used in a great variety of applications (especially in connection with other words)

שְׁמֵ֤הּ

H8036

the name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

דִּֽי

H1768

that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of

אֱלָהָא֙

H426

of God

god

מְבָרַ֔ךְ

H1289

Blessed

to bless

מִן

H4481

for

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of

#10

עָלְמָ֑א

H5957

ever

remote time, i.e., the future or past indefinitely; often adverb, forever

#11

וְעַ֣ד

H5705

and ever

until

#12

עָלְמָ֑א

H5957

ever

remote time, i.e., the future or past indefinitely; often adverb, forever

#13

דִּ֧י

H1768

that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of

#14

חָכְמְתָ֛א

H2452

for wisdom

wisdom

#15

וּגְבוּרְתָ֖א

H1370

and might

power

#16

דִּ֥י

H1768

that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of

#17

לֵֽהּ

#18

הִֽיא׃

H1932

are

he (she or it); self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demonstrative) this or that; occasionally (instead of copula) as or are

Analysis

Within the broader context of Daniel, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of wisdom connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about wisdom, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Daniel.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Daniel Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes wisdom in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does understanding wisdom in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of wisdom differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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