Daniel 2:32

Authorized King James Version

This image's head was of fine gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his thighs of brass,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ה֣וּא
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
#2
צַלְמָ֗א
This image's
an idolatrous figure
#3
רֵאשֵׁהּ֙
head
the head; figuratively, the sum
#4
דִּֽי
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
#5
דְהַ֣ב
gold
gold
#6
טָ֔ב
was of fine
good
#7
חֲד֥וֹהִי
his breast
a breast
#8
וּדְרָע֖וֹהִי
and his arms
an arm
#9
דִּ֣י
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
#10
כְסַ֑ף
of silver
silver money
#11
מְע֥וֹהִי
his belly
only in plural the bowels
#12
וְיַרְכָתֵ֖הּ
and his thighs
a thigh
#13
דִּ֥י
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
#14
נְחָֽשׁ׃
of brass
copper

Analysis

Within the broader context of Daniel, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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