King James Version
What Does Daniel 4:16 Mean?
“Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him.”
Daniel 4:16 · KJV
Context
14
He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cut off his branches, shake off his leaves, and scatter his fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from his branches: aloud: Cald. with might
15
Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth:
16
Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him.
17
This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.
18
This dream I king Nebuchadnezzar have seen. Now thou, O Belteshazzar, declare the interpretation thereof, forasmuch as all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known unto me the interpretation: but thou art able; for the spirit of the holy gods is in thee.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe transformation intensifies: 'Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him.' The heart (לֵבַב/lebab) in biblical thought represents the inner person—mind, will, emotions, character. Changing from human to beast heart indicates complete loss of rational faculties, moral consciousness, and social capacity. This isn't merely physical degradation but mental and spiritual transformation—Nebuchadnezzar will think, feel, and behave like an animal. The 'seven times' that must pass likely indicates seven years (though some suggest seven periods/seasons). This specific duration shows God's control—the judgment isn't random madness but purposeful discipline with defined limits. Like Job's suffering, it has appointed boundaries. This teaches that God's disciplines, though severe, are measured and purposeful, designed to produce repentance rather than destruction.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Historical records show gaps in Nebuchadnezzar's documented activities around 582-575 BC, possibly corresponding to this seven-year period. The illness described resembles clinical lycanthropy or boanthropy—rare psychiatric conditions where patients believe themselves to be animals, exhibiting appropriate behavior (eating grass, living outdoors, etc.). Modern medicine recognizes such conditions; Scripture presents this specific instance as divinely imposed for redemptive purposes. The seven-year duration provided sufficient time for complete humiliation—long enough to break pride thoroughly, not so long as to be merely punitive. Ancient medicine had no treatment for such conditions, making the king's eventual recovery (v.34-36) obviously miraculous, vindicating Daniel's prophecy.
Reflection Questions
- What does the transformation of the 'heart' from human to beast teach about the seriousness of pride's spiritual effects?
- How does the specific seven-year duration demonstrate God's control and purpose in discipline?
- Why is temporary rather than permanent judgment often more effective in producing repentance?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 12 wordsיִתְיְהִ֣ב7 of 12
“be given”
H3052to give (whether literal or figurative); generally, to put; imperatively (reflexive) come
לֵ֑הּ8 of 12
H0וְשִׁבְעָ֥ה9 of 12
“unto him and let seven”
H7655seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number
עֲלֽוֹהִי׃12 of 12
“over”
H5922above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Study Guide
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 4:16 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 4:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge