Daniel 4:20

Authorized King James Version

The tree that thou sawest, which grew, and was strong, whose height reached unto the heaven, and the sight thereof to all the earth;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אִֽילָנָא֙
The tree
a tree
#2
דִּ֣י
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
#3
חֲזַ֔יְתָ
that thou sawest
to gaze upon; mentally to dream, be usual (i.e., seem)
#4
דִּ֥י
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
#5
רְבָ֖ה
which grew
to increase (in whatever respect)
#6
וּתְקִ֑ף
and was strong
to become (causatively, make) mighty or (figuratively) obstinate
#7
וְרוּמֵהּ֙
whose height
(literally) altitude
#8
יִמְטֵ֣א
reached
to arrive, extend or happen
#9
לִשְׁמַיָּ֔א
unto the heaven
the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r
#10
וַחֲזוֹתֵ֖הּ
and the sight
a view
#11
לְכָל
thereof to all
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#12
אַרְעָֽא׃
the earth
the earth; by implication (figuratively) low

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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