King James Version
What Does Daniel 2:7 Mean?
“They answered again and said, Let the king tell his servants the dream, and we will shew the interpretation of it.”
Context
5
The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, The thing is gone from me: if ye will not make known unto me the dream, with the interpretation thereof, ye shall be cut in pieces, and your houses shall be made a dunghill. cut: Cald. made pieces
6
But if ye shew the dream, and the interpretation thereof, ye shall receive of me gifts and rewards and great honour: therefore shew me the dream, and the interpretation thereof. rewards: or, fee
7
They answered again and said, Let the king tell his servants the dream, and we will shew the interpretation of it.
8
The king answered and said, I know of certainty that ye would gain the time, because ye see the thing is gone from me. gain: Cald. buy
9
But if ye will not make known unto me the dream, there is but one decree for you: for ye have prepared lying and corrupt words to speak before me, till the time be changed: therefore tell me the dream, and I shall know that ye can shew me the interpretation thereof.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(7) **Let the king tell.—**The request was reasonable enough, according to the principles of Babylonian sorcery. Nebuchadnezzar’s doubts, however, were awakened, and he was not sure of the veracity of his magicians. He speaks with great common sense (Daniel 2:9), “If you can tell me the dream, I shall be sure that your interpretation is correct.”
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Daniel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Daniel 2:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Daniel 2:7
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge