Daniel 2:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Daniel 2:20
20 Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his:
Chapter Context
Daniel 2 is a apocalyptic and narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, truth, discipleship. Written during the Babylonian and Persian periods (c. 605-530 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Demonstrates faithful living under foreign rule during the Babylonian and Persian empires.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-49: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Daniel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Daniel 2:20
20 Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his:
Analysis
Daniel's doxology 'Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever' begins his worship response to answered prayer. The phrase 'for ever and ever' (Hebrew: min olam v'ad olam, from eternity to eternity) proclaims God's eternal nature. Attributing 'wisdom and might' to God emphasizes His comprehensive sovereignty—He knows all things (wisdom) and controls all things (might). This combination means God both understands and accomplishes His purposes without limitation. Daniel's worship focuses entirely on God's character rather than the personal benefit of receiving revelation.
Historical Context
Jewish doxological prayers typically blessed God's name, acknowledging His attributes and deeds. This form appears throughout Scripture (cf. Psalm 41:13; 106:48; 1 Chronicles 29:10-13). The dual attribution of wisdom and might reflects ancient Near Eastern royal ideology—kings claimed wisdom to govern and might to conquer. Daniel ascribes these supremely to God, implicitly subordinating all earthly kings including Nebuchadnezzar.
Reflection
- How does focusing worship on God's eternal character rather than His temporal blessings demonstrate mature faith?
- What does combining wisdom and might in God's character teach about His perfect knowledge and sovereign power working together?
Cross-References
- Blessing: 1 Kings 8:56, Psalms 113:2, 115:18, Revelation 5:12
- Parallel theme: Job 12:13, Psalms 147:5, Proverbs 8:14, Jeremiah 32:19, Jude 1:24