“Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery?”
The full verse · Daniel 2:47 · KJV
The unto , and , a it is, your is a of , and a of , and a of , seeing thou .
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Why It Was Asked
The purpose behind the questionNebuchadnezzar’s question arises from amazement and a genuine desire to acknowledge the source of Daniel’s insight. It serves to exalt the God of Israel above Babylonian gods, recognizing Him as ‘God of gods and Lord of kings’ (Daniel 2:47). The question also serves as a narrative climax, validating God’s power over earthly kingdoms (Daniel 2:44).
The Response
What Scripture recordsDaniel responds humbly, attributing the revelation of the king’s dream and its interpretation solely to God, who reveals mysteries to His servants (Daniel 2:27-28). Daniel emphasizes God’s sovereign power and wisdom, not his own abilities, leading to the king’s acknowledgment of God’s supreme authority (Daniel 2:47).
The Bigger Picture
Where this fits in God's storyWiersbe highlights Nebuchadnezzar’s recognition as a profound moment where pagan authority acknowledges the God of Israel’s supremacy. He notes Daniel’s humility in attributing the revelation to God alone, underscoring the theme that wisdom and revelation come from God, not human effort. Matthew Henry emphasizes the king’s confession as a testimony to God’s power and mercy in revealing secrets. Both commentators see this question as genuine praise that closes the narrative tension, pointing believers to trust God’s sovereignty amid worldly powers. The passage reminds us that God reveals His truth to those who seek Him and that all authority belongs to Him (Daniel 2:47; Matthew 28:18). The king’s question invites us to recognize God’s lordship in the mysteries of life and history.
Believers today can trust God as the supreme revealer of truth, especially in times of uncertainty or confusion (Proverbs 3:5-6). Like Daniel, we should humbly acknowledge God’s sovereignty and rely on His wisdom rather than human knowledge (James 1:5). This encourages faith in God’s control over worldly powers and His providential guidance (Romans 8:28). It also challenges pride and self-reliance.
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Keep questioning
“The king answered and said to Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, Art thou able to make known unto me the dream which I have seen, and the interpretation thereof?”
“I know that the spirit of the holy gods is in you, and no mystery is too difficult for you. Here is my dream; interpret it for me?”
“No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about?”
“Why is the decree so hasty from the king?”