Daniel 5:4

Authorized King James Version

They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of stone.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אִשְׁתִּ֖יו
They drank
to imbibe (literally or figuratively)
#2
חַמְרָ֑א
wine
wine
#3
וְ֠שַׁבַּחוּ
and praised
to adulate, i.e., adore
#4
לֵֽאלָהֵ֞י
the gods
god
#5
דַּהֲבָ֧א
of gold
gold
#6
וְכַסְפָּ֛א
and of silver
silver money
#7
נְחָשָׁ֥א
of brass
copper
#8
פַרְזְלָ֖א
of iron
iron
#9
אָעָ֥א
of wood
a tree or wood
#10
וְאַבְנָֽא׃
H69
and of stone
a stone

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Daniel. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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