Daniel 4:16

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּלְבַ֥ב
Let his heart
the heart (as the most interior organ)
#2
מִן
from
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of
#3
אֲנָושָׁ֣א
man's
a man
#4
יְשַׁנּ֔וֹן
be changed
to alter
#5
וּלְבַ֥ב
Let his heart
the heart (as the most interior organ)
#6
חֵיוָ֖ה
and let a beast's
an animal
#7
יִתְיְהִ֣ב
be given
to give (whether literal or figurative); generally, to put; imperatively (reflexive) come
#8
לֵ֑הּ
H0
#9
וְשִׁבְעָ֥ה
unto him and let seven
seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number
#10
עִדָּנִ֖ין
times
a set time; technically, a year
#11
יַחְלְפ֥וּן
pass
to pass on (of time)
#12
עֲלֽוֹהִי׃
over
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Daniel. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People