Daniel 4:8
But at the last Daniel came in before me, whose name was Belteshazzar, according to the name of my god, and in whom is the spirit of the holy gods: and before him I told the dream, saying,
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Babylonian names for Hebrew captives represented cultural assimilation efforts (Daniel 1:7). 'Belteshazzar' honored Marduk (called 'Bel'), Babylon's patron deity, contrasting with Daniel's Hebrew name ('God is my judge'). Nebuchadnezzar's reference to Daniel by this name shows the ongoing tension between Jewish identity and Babylonian environment. The king's phrase 'spirit of the holy gods' reflects Mesopotamian polytheism's hierarchy—recognition that some spiritual forces transcend others, though still conceived pluralistically. Daniel's reputation had grown across decades of faithful service, making him the king's trusted interpreter despite being a conquered exile.
Questions for Reflection
- How do faithful Christians' lives cause even unbelievers to recognize God's work, even if misunderstanding its source?
- What does Nebuchadnezzar's mixed understanding (recognizing divine enablement but misconstruing it polytheistically) teach about incomplete spiritual knowledge?
- How can we maintain spiritual identity while living in cultures hostile or indifferent to biblical truth?
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Analysis & Commentary
Daniel's entrance is marked by Nebuchadnezzar noting his Babylonian name Belteshazzar ('Bel protect his life'), which the king explicitly connects to his chief god. Yet Nebuchadnezzar also acknowledges 'the spirit of the holy gods' is in Daniel—a polytheistic interpretation of the Holy Spirit's work. This mixed understanding shows the king's incomplete theological grasp: he recognizes divine enablement but misconstrues it through pagan categories. The phrase 'spirit of the holy gods' (רוּחַ אֱלָהִין קַדִּישִׁין/ruach elahin qadishin) uses plural 'gods' (reflecting Babylonian worldview) while 'holy' suggests transcendence beyond typical deities. Daniel's consistent witness throughout captivity had impressed the king, leading to recognition of supernatural ability even if imperfectly understood. This demonstrates the power of faithful testimony—even pagan rulers acknowledge God's work in His servants, though they may misinterpret its source.