<hi type="bold">31. While, &c.--</hi>in the very act of speaking, so that there could be no doubt as to the connection between the crime and the punishment. So <reference osisRef="Luke.12.19">Lu 12:19</reference>, <reference osisRef="Luke.12.20">20</reference>.

<hi type="bold">O king ... to thee it is spoken--</hi>Notwithstanding thy kingly power, to thee thy doom is now spoken, there is to be no further respite.

31. While, &c.-- in the very act of speaking, so that there could be no doubt as to the connection between the crime and the punishment. So Lu 12:19, 20. O king... to thee it is spoken-- Notwithstanding thy kingly power, to thee thy doom is now spoken, there is to be no further respite.


<hi type="bold">33. driven from men--</hi>as a maniac fancying himself a wild beast. It is possible, a conspiracy of his nobles may have co-operated towards his having been "driven" forth as an outcast.

<hi type="bold">hairs ... eagles' feathers--</hi>matted together, as the hair-like, thick plumage of the ossifraga eagle. The "nails," by being left uncut for years, would become like "claws."

33. driven from men-- as a maniac fancying himself a wild beast. It is possible, a conspiracy of his nobles may have co-operated towards his having been "driven" forth as an outcast. hairs... eagles' feathers-- matted together, as the hair-like, thick plumage of the ossifraga eagle. The "nails," by being left uncut for years, would become like "claws."


<hi type="bold">34. lifted up mine eyes unto heaven--</hi>whence the "voice" had issued (<reference osisRef="Dan.4.31">Da 4:31</reference>) at the beginning of his visitation. Sudden mental derangement often has the effect of annihilating the whole interval, so that, when reason returns, the patient remembers only the event that immediately preceded his insanity. Nebuchadnezzar's looking up towards heaven was the first symptom of his "understanding" having "returned." Before, like the beasts, his eyes had been downward to the earth. Now, like Jonah's (<reference osisRef="Jonah.2.1">Jon 2:1</reference>, 2, 4) out of the fish's belly, they are lifted up to heaven in prayer. He turns to Him that smiteth him (<reference osisRef="Isa.9.13">Is 9:13</reference>), with the faint glimmer of reason left to him, and owns God's justice in punishing him.

<hi type="bold">praised ... him--</hi>Praise is a sure sign of a soul spiritually healed (<reference osisRef="Ps.116.12">Psa 116:12</reference>, <reference osisRef="Ps.116.14">14</reference>; <reference osisRef="Mark.5.15">Mr 5:15</reference>, 18, 19).

<hi type="bold">I ... honoured him--</hi>implying that the cause of his chastisement was that he had before robbed God of His honor.

<hi type="bold">everlasting dominion--</hi>not temporary or mutable, as a human king's dominion.

34. lifted up mine eyes unto heaven-- whence the "voice" had issued (Da 4:31) at the beginning of his visitation. Sudden mental derangement often has the effect of annihilating the whole interval, so that, when reason returns, the patient remembers only the event that immediately preceded his insanity. Nebuchadnezzar's looking up towards heaven was the first symptom of his "understanding" having "returned." Before, like the beasts, his eyes had been downward to the earth. Now, like Jonah's (Jon 2:1, 2, 4) out of the fish's belly, they are lifted up to heaven in prayer. He turns to Him that smiteth him (Is 9:13), with the faint glimmer of reason left to him, and owns God's justice in punishing him. praised... him-- Praise is a sure sign of a soul spiritually healed (Psa 116:12, 14; Mr 5:15, 18, 19). I... honoured him-- implying that the cause of his chastisement was that he had before robbed God of His honor. everlasting dominion-- not temporary or mutable, as a human king's dominion.


<hi type="bold">35. all ... as nothing--</hi>(<reference osisRef="Isa.40.15">Is 40:15</reference>, <reference osisRef="Isa.40.17">17</reference>).

<hi type="bold">according to his will in ... heaven--</hi>(<reference osisRef="Ps.115.3">Psa 115:3</reference>; <reference osisRef="Ps.135.6">135:6</reference>; <reference osisRef="Matt.6.10">Mt 6:10</reference>; <reference osisRef="Eph.1.11">Ep 1:11</reference>).

<hi type="bold">army--</hi>the heavenly hosts, angels and starry orbs (compare <reference osisRef="Isa.24.21">Is 24:21</reference>).

<hi type="bold">none ... stay his hand--</hi>literally, "strike His hand." Image from striking the hand of another, to check him in doing anything (<reference osisRef="Isa.43.13">Is 43:13</reference>; <reference osisRef="Isa.45.9">45:9</reference>).

<hi type="bold">What doest thou--</hi>(<reference osisRef="Job.9.12">Job 9:12</reference>; <reference osisRef="Rom.9.20">Ro 9:20</reference>).

35. all... as nothing-- (Is 40:15, 17). according to his will in... heaven-- (Psa 115:3; 135:6; Mt 6:10; Ep 1:11). army-- the heavenly hosts, angels and starry orbs (compare Is 24:21). none... stay his hand-- literally, "strike His hand." Image from striking the hand of another, to check him in doing anything (Is 43:13; 45:9). What doest thou-- (Job 9:12; Ro 9:20).


36. An inscription in the East India Company's Museum is read as describing the period of Nebuchadnezzar's insanity [G. V. Smith]. In the so-called standard inscription read by Sir H. Rawlinson, Nebuchadnezzar relates that during four (?) years he ceased to lay out buildings, or to furnish with victims Merodach's altar, or to clear out the canals for irrigation. No other instance in the cuneiform inscriptions occurs of a king recording his own inaction.

<hi type="bold">my counsellors ... sought unto me--</hi>desired to have me, as formerly, to be their head, wearied with the anarchy which prevailed in my absence (compare Note, see on <reference osisRef="Dan.4.33">Da 4:33</reference>); the likelihood of a conspiracy of the nobles is confirmed by this verse.

<hi type="bold">majesty was added--</hi>My authority was greater than ever before (<reference osisRef="Job.42.12">Job 42:12</reference>; <reference osisRef="Prov.22.4">Pr 22:4</reference>; "added," <reference osisRef="Matt.6.33">Mt 6:33</reference>).

36. An inscription in the East India Company's Museum is read as describing the period of Nebuchadnezzar's insanity [G. V. Smith]. In the so-called standard inscription read by Sir H. Rawlinson, Nebuchadnezzar relates that during four (?) years he ceased to lay out buildings, or to furnish with victims Merodach's altar, or to clear out the canals for irrigation. No other instance in the cuneiform inscriptions occurs of a king recording his own inaction. my counsellors... sought unto me-- desired to have me, as formerly, to be their head, wearied with the anarchy which prevailed in my absence (compare Note, see on Da 4:33); the likelihood of a conspiracy of the nobles is confirmed by this verse. majesty was added-- My authority was greater than ever before (Job 42:12; Pr 22:4; "added," Mt 6:33).


<hi type="bold">37. praise ... extol ... honour--</hi>He heaps word on word, as if he cannot say enough in praise of God.

<hi type="bold">all whose works ... truth ... judgment--</hi>that is, are true and just (<reference osisRef="Rev.15.3">Re 15:3</reference>; <reference osisRef="Rev.16.7">16:7</reference>). God has not dealt unjustly or too severely with me; whatever I have suffered, I deserved it all. It is a mark of true contrition to condemn one's self, and justify God (<reference osisRef="Ps.51.4">Psa 51:4</reference>).

<hi type="bold">those that walk in pride ... abase--</hi>exemplified in me. He condemns himself before the whole world, in order to glorify God. <chapter eID="Dan.4"/>

37. praise... extol... honour-- He heaps word on word, as if he cannot say enough in praise of God. all whose works... truth... judgment-- that is, are true and just (Re 15:3; 16:7). God has not dealt unjustly or too severely with me; whatever I have suffered, I deserved it all. It is a mark of true contrition to condemn one's self, and justify God (Psa 51:4). those that walk in pride... abase-- exemplified in me. He condemns himself before the whole world, in order to glorify God.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 5</title> <title type="x-s3"><reference osisRef="Dan.5.1-Dan.5.31">Da 5:1-31</reference>. Belshazzar's Impious Feast; the Handwriting on the Wall Interpreted by Daniel of the Doom of Babylon and Its King.</title>

<hi type="bold">1. Belshazzar--</hi>Rawlinson, from the Assyrian inscriptions, has explained the seeming discrepancy between Daniel and the heathen historians of Babylon, Berosus and Abydenus, who say the last king (Nabonidus) surrendered in Borsippa, after Babylon was taken, and had an honorable abode in Caramania assigned to him. Belshazzar was joint king with his father (called Minus in the inscriptions), but subordinate to him; hence the Babylonian account suppresses the facts which cast discredit on Babylon, namely, that Belshazzar shut himself up in that city and fell at its capture; while it records the surrender of the principal king in Borsippa (see my Introduction to Daniel). The heathen Xenophon's description of Belshazzar accords with Daniel's; he calls him "impious," and illustrates his cruelty by mentioning that he killed one of his nobles, merely because, in hunting, the noble struck down the game before him; and unmanned a courtier, Gadates, at a banquet, because one of the king's concubines praised him as handsome. Daniel shows none of the sympathy for him which he had for Nebuchadnezzar. Xenophon confirms Daniel as to Belshazzar's end. Winer explains the "shazzar" in the name as meaning "fire."

<hi type="bold">made ... feast--</hi>heaven-sent infatuation when his city was at the time being besieged by Cyrus. The fortifications and abundant provisions in the city made the king despise the besiegers. It was a festival day among the Babylonians [Xenophon].

<hi type="bold">drank ... before the thousand--</hi>The king, on this extraordinary occasion, departed from his usual way of feasting apart from his nobles (compare <reference osisRef="Esth.1.3">Es 1:3</reference>).

CHAPTER 5 Da 5:1-31. Belshazzar's Impious Feast; the Handwriting on the Wall Interpreted by Daniel of the Doom of Babylon and Its King. 1. Belshazzar-- Rawlinson, from the Assyrian inscriptions, has explained the seeming discrepancy between Daniel and the heathen historians of Babylon, Berosus and Abydenus, who say the last king (Nabonidus) surrendered in Borsippa, after Babylon was taken, and had an honorable abode in Caramania assigned to him. Belshazzar was joint king with his father (called Minus in the inscriptions), but subordinate to him; hence the Babylonian account suppresses the facts which cast discredit on Babylon, namely, that Belshazzar shut himself up in that city and fell at its capture; while it records the surrender of the principal king in Borsippa (see my Introduction to Daniel). The heathen Xenophon's description of Belshazzar accords with Daniel's; he calls him "impious," and illustrates his cruelty by mentioning that he killed one of his nobles, merely because, in hunting, the noble struck down the game before him; and unmanned a courtier, Gadates, at a banquet, because one of the king's concubines praised him as handsome. Daniel shows none of the sympathy for him which he had for Nebuchadnezzar. Xenophon confirms Daniel as to Belshazzar's end. Winer explains the "shazzar" in the name as meaning "fire." made... feast-- heaven-sent infatuation when his city was at the time being besieged by Cyrus. The fortifications and abundant provisions in the city made the king despise the besiegers. It was a festival day among the Babylonians [Xenophon]. drank... before the thousand-- The king, on this extraordinary occasion, departed from his usual way of feasting apart from his nobles (compare Es 1:3).


<hi type="bold">2. whiles he tasted the wine--</hi>While under the effects of wine, men will do what they dare not do when sober.

<hi type="bold">his father Nebuchadnezzar--</hi>that is, his forefather. So "Jesus ... the son of David, the son of Abraham" (<reference osisRef="Matt.1.1">Mt 1:1</reference>). Daniel does not say that the other kings mentioned in other writers did not reign between Belshazzar and Nebuchadnezzar, namely, Evil-merodach (<reference osisRef="Jer.52.31">Jr 52:31</reference>), Neriglissar, his brother-in-law, and Laborasoarchod (nine months). Berosus makes Nabonidus, the last king, to have been one of the people, raised to the throne by an insurrection. As the inscriptions show that Belshazzar was distinct from, and joint king with, him, this is not at variance with Daniel, whose statement that Belshazzar was son (grandson) of Nebuchadnezzar is corroborated by Jeremiah (<reference osisRef="Jer.27.7">Jr 27:7</reference>). Their joint, yet independent, testimony, as contemporaries, and having the best means of information, is more trustworthy than any of the heathen historians, if there were a discrepancy. Evil-merodach, son of Nebuchadnezzar (according to Berosus), reigned but a short time (one or two years), having, in consequence of his bad government, been dethroned by a plot of Neriglissar, his sister's husband; hence Daniel does not mention him. At the elevation of Nabonidus as supreme king, Belshazzar, the grandson of Nebuchadnezzar, was doubtless suffered to be subordinate king and successor, in order to conciliate the legitimate party. Thus the seeming discrepancy becomes a confirmation of genuineness when cleared up, for the real harmony must have been undesigned.

<hi type="bold">wives ... concubines--</hi>not usually present at feasts in the East, where women of the harem are kept in strict seclusion. Hence Vashti's refusal to appear at Ahasuerus' feast (<reference osisRef="Esth.1.9-Esth.1.12">Es 1:9-12</reference>). But the Babylonian court, in its reckless excesses, seems not to have been so strict as the Persian. Xenophon [Cyropædia, 5.2,28] confirms Daniel, representing a feast of Belshazzar where the concubines are present. At the beginning "the lords" (<reference osisRef="Dan.5.1">Da 5:1</reference>), for whom the feast was made, alone seem to have been present; but as the revelry advanced, the women were introduced. Two classes of them are mentioned, those to whom belonged the privileges of "wives," and those strictly concubines (<reference osisRef="2Sam.5.13">2Sa 5:13</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Kgs.11.3">1Ki 11:3</reference>; <reference osisRef="Song.6.8">So 6:8</reference>).

2. whiles he tasted the wine-- While under the effects of wine, men will do what they dare not do when sober. his father Nebuchadnezzar-- that is, his forefather. So "Jesus... the son of David, the son of Abraham" (Mt 1:1). Daniel does not say that the other kings mentioned in other writers did not reign between Belshazzar and Nebuchadnezzar, namely, Evil-merodach (Jr 52:31), Neriglissar, his brother-in-law, and Laborasoarchod (nine months). Berosus makes Nabonidus, the last king, to have been one of the people, raised to the throne by an insurrection. As the inscriptions show that Belshazzar was distinct from, and joint king with, him, this is not at variance with Daniel, whose statement that Belshazzar was son (grandson) of Nebuchadnezzar is corroborated by Jeremiah (Jr 27:7). Their joint, yet independent, testimony, as contemporaries, and having the best means of information, is more trustworthy than any of the heathen historians, if there were a discrepancy. Evil-merodach, son of Nebuchadnezzar (according to Berosus), reigned but a short time (one or two years), having, in consequence of his bad government, been dethroned by a plot of Neriglissar, his sister's husband; hence Daniel does not mention him. At the elevation of Nabonidus as supreme king, Belshazzar, the grandson of Nebuchadnezzar, was doubtless suffered to be subordinate king and successor, in order to conciliate the legitimate party. Thus the seeming discrepancy becomes a confirmation of genuineness when cleared up, for the real harmony must have been undesigned. wives... concubines-- not usually present at feasts in the East, where women of the harem are kept in strict seclusion. Hence Vashti's refusal to appear at Ahasuerus' feast (Es 1:9-12). But the Babylonian court, in its reckless excesses, seems not to have been so strict as the Persian. Xenophon [Cyropædia, 5.2,28] confirms Daniel, representing a feast of Belshazzar where the concubines are present. At the beginning "the lords" (Da 5:1), for whom the feast was made, alone seem to have been present; but as the revelry advanced, the women were introduced. Two classes of them are mentioned, those to whom belonged the privileges of "wives," and those strictly concubines (2Sa 5:13; 1Ki 11:3; So 6:8).


3. This act was not one of necessity, or for honor's sake, but in reckless profanity.


<hi type="bold">4. praised--</hi>sang and shouted praises to "gods," which being of gold, "are their own witnesses" (<reference osisRef="Isa.44.9">Is 44:9</reference>), confuting the folly of those who fancy such to be gods.

4. praised-- sang and shouted praises to "gods," which being of gold, "are their own witnesses" (Is 44:9), confuting the folly of those who fancy such to be gods.


<hi type="bold">5. In the same hour--</hi>that the cause of God's visitation might be palpable, namely, the profanation of His vessels and His holy name.

<hi type="bold">fingers of ... hand--</hi>God admonishes him, not by a dream (as Nebuchadnezzar had been warned), or by a voice, but by "fingers coming forth," the invisibility of Him who moved them heightening the awful impressiveness of the scene, the hand of the Unseen One attesting his doom before the eyes of himself and his guilty fellow revellers.

<hi type="bold">against the candlestick--</hi>the candelabra; where the mystic characters would be best seen. Barnes makes it the candlestick taken from the temple of Jerusalem, the nearness of the writing to it intimating that the rebuke was directed against the sacrilege.

<hi type="bold">upon the plaster of the wall of the king's palace--</hi>Written in cuneiform letters on slabs on the walls, and on the very bricks, are found the perpetually recurring recital of titles, victories, and exploits, to remind the spectator at every point of the regal greatness. It is significant, that on the same wall on which the king was accustomed to read the flattering legends of his own magnificence, he beholds the mysterious inscription which foretells his fall (compare <reference osisRef="Prov.16.18">Pr 16:18</reference>; <reference osisRef="Acts.12.21-Acts.12.23">Ac 12:21-23</reference>).

<hi type="bold">part of the hand--</hi>the anterior part, namely, the fingers.

5. In the same hour-- that the cause of God's visitation might be palpable, namely, the profanation of His vessels and His holy name. fingers of... hand-- God admonishes him, not by a dream (as Nebuchadnezzar had been warned), or by a voice, but by "fingers coming forth," the invisibility of Him who moved them heightening the awful impressiveness of the scene, the hand of the Unseen One attesting his doom before the eyes of himself and his guilty fellow revellers. against the candlestick-- the candelabra; where the mystic characters would be best seen. Barnes makes it the candlestick taken from the temple of Jerusalem, the nearness of the writing to it intimating that the rebuke was directed against the sacrilege. upon the plaster of the wall of the king's palace-- Written in cuneiform letters on slabs on the walls, and on the very bricks, are found the perpetually recurring recital of titles, victories, and exploits, to remind the spectator at every point of the regal greatness. It is significant, that on the same wall on which the king was accustomed to read the flattering legends of his own magnificence, he beholds the mysterious inscription which foretells his fall (compare Pr 16:18; Ac 12:21-23). part of the hand-- the anterior part, namely, the fingers.


<hi type="bold">6. countenance--</hi>literally, "brightness," that is, his bright look.

<hi type="bold">joints of his loins--</hi>"the vertebræ of his back" [Gesenius].

6. countenance-- literally, "brightness," that is, his bright look. joints of his loins-- "the vertebræ of his back" [Gesenius].


7. He calls for the magicians, who more than once had been detected in imposture. He neglects God, and Daniel, whose fame as an interpreter was then well-established. The world wishes to be deceived and shuts its eyes against the light [Calvin]. The Hebrews think the words were Chaldee, but in the old Hebrew character (like that now in the Samaritan Pentateuch).

<hi type="bold">third ruler--</hi>The first place was given to the king; the second, to the son of the king, or of the queen; the third, to the chief of the satraps.

7. He calls for the magicians, who more than once had been detected in imposture. He neglects God, and Daniel, whose fame as an interpreter was then well-established. The world wishes to be deceived and shuts its eyes against the light [Calvin]. The Hebrews think the words were Chaldee, but in the old Hebrew character (like that now in the Samaritan Pentateuch). third ruler-- The first place was given to the king; the second, to the son of the king, or of the queen; the third, to the chief of the satraps.


8. The words were in such a character as to be illegible to the Chaldees, God reserving this honor to Daniel.


<hi type="bold">10. queen--</hi>the queen mother, or grandmother, Nitocris, had not been present till now. She was wife either of Nebuchadnezzar or of Evil merodach; hence her acquaintance with the services of Daniel. She completed the great works which the former had begun. Hence Herodotus attributes them to her alone. This accounts for the deference paid to her by Belshazzar. (See on <reference osisRef="Dan.4.36">Da 4:36</reference>). Compare similar rank given to the queen mother among the Hebrews (<reference osisRef="1Kgs.15.13">1Ki 15:13</reference>).

10. queen-- the queen mother, or grandmother, Nitocris, had not been present till now. She was wife either of Nebuchadnezzar or of Evil merodach; hence her acquaintance with the services of Daniel. She completed the great works which the former had begun. Hence Herodotus attributes them to her alone. This accounts for the deference paid to her by Belshazzar. (See on Da 4:36). Compare similar rank given to the queen mother among the Hebrews (1Ki 15:13).


<hi type="bold">11. spirit of the holy gods--</hi>She remembers and repeats Nebuchadnezzar's language (<reference osisRef="Dan.4.8">Da 4:8</reference>, <reference osisRef="Dan.9.18">9, 18</reference>). As Daniel was probably, according to Oriental custom, deprived of the office to which Nebuchadnezzar had promoted him, as "master of the magicians" (<reference osisRef="Dan.4.9">Da 4:9</reference>), at the king's death, Belshazzar might easily be ignorant of his services.

<hi type="bold">the king ... thy father the king ... thy father--</hi>The repetition marks with emphatic gravity both the excellencies of Daniel, and the fact that Nebuchadnezzar, whom Belshazzar is bound to reverence as his father, had sought counsel from him in similar circumstances.

11. spirit of the holy gods-- She remembers and repeats Nebuchadnezzar's language (Da 4:8, 9, 18). As Daniel was probably, according to Oriental custom, deprived of the office to which Nebuchadnezzar had promoted him, as "master of the magicians" (Da 4:9), at the king's death, Belshazzar might easily be ignorant of his services. the king... thy father the king... thy father-- The repetition marks with emphatic gravity both the excellencies of Daniel, and the fact that Nebuchadnezzar, whom Belshazzar is bound to reverence as his father, had sought counsel from him in similar circumstances.


<hi type="bold">13. the captivity of Judah--</hi>the captive Jews residing in Babylon.

13. the captivity of Judah-- the captive Jews residing in Babylon.


17. Not inconsistent with <reference osisRef="Dan.5.29">Da 5:29</reference>. For here he declares his interpretation of the words is not from the desire of reward. The honors in <reference osisRef="Dan.5.29">Da 5:29</reference> were doubtless urged on him, without his wish, in such a way that he could not with propriety refuse them. Had he refused them after announcing the doom of the kingdom, he might have been suspected of cowardice or treason.

17. Not inconsistent with Da 5:29. For here he declares his interpretation of the words is not from the desire of reward. The honors in Da 5:29 were doubtless urged on him, without his wish, in such a way that he could not with propriety refuse them. Had he refused them after announcing the doom of the kingdom, he might have been suspected of cowardice or treason.


<hi type="bold">18. God gave--</hi>It was not his own birth or talents which gave him the vast empire, as he thought. To make him unlearn his proud thought was the object of God's visitation on him.

<hi type="bold">majesty--</hi>in the eyes of his subjects.

<hi type="bold">glory--</hi>from his victories.

<hi type="bold">honour--</hi>from the enlargement and decoration of the city.

18. God gave-- It was not his own birth or talents which gave him the vast empire, as he thought. To make him unlearn his proud thought was the object of God's visitation on him. majesty-- in the eyes of his subjects. glory-- from his victories. honour-- from the enlargement and decoration of the city.


19. A purely absolute monarchy (<reference osisRef="Jer.27.7">Jr 27:7</reference>).

19. A purely absolute monarchy (Jr 27:7).


<hi type="bold">21. heart was made like ... beasts--</hi>literally, "he made his heart like the beasts," that is, he desired to dwell with them.

21. heart was made like... beasts-- literally, "he made his heart like the beasts," that is, he desired to dwell with them.


22. Thou hast erred not through ignorance, but through deliberate contempt of God, notwithstanding that thou hadst before thine eyes the striking warning given in thy grandfather's case.


<hi type="bold">23. whose are all thy ways--</hi>(<reference osisRef="Jer.10.23">Jr 10:23</reference>).

23. whose are all thy ways-- (Jr 10:23).


<hi type="bold">24. Then--</hi>When thou liftedst up thyself against the Lord.

<hi type="bold">the part of the hand--</hi>the fore part, the fingers.

<hi type="bold">was ... sent from him--</hi>that is, from God.

24. Then-- When thou liftedst up thyself against the Lord. the part of the hand-- the fore part, the fingers. was... sent from him-- that is, from God.


<hi type="bold">25. Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin--</hi>literally, "numbered, weighed, and dividers."

25. Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin-- literally, "numbered, weighed, and dividers."


26. God hath fixed the number of years of thine empire, and that number is now complete.


<hi type="bold">27. weighed in the balances--</hi>The Egyptians thought that Osiris weighed the actions of the dead in a literal balance. The Babylonians may have had the same notion, which would give a peculiar appropriateness to the image here used.

<hi type="bold">found wanting--</hi>too light before God, the weigher of actions (<reference osisRef="1Sam.2.3">1Sa 2:3</reference>; <reference osisRef="Ps.62.9">Psa 62:9</reference>). Like spurious gold or silver (<reference osisRef="Jer.6.30">Jr 6:30</reference>).

27. weighed in the balances-- The Egyptians thought that Osiris weighed the actions of the dead in a literal balance. The Babylonians may have had the same notion, which would give a peculiar appropriateness to the image here used. found wanting-- too light before God, the weigher of actions (1Sa 2:3; Psa 62:9). Like spurious gold or silver (Jr 6:30).


<hi type="bold">28. Peres--</hi>the explanation of "dividers" (<reference osisRef="Dan.5.25">Da 5:25</reference>), the active participle plural there being used for the passive participle singular, "dividers" for "divided." The word "Peres" alludes to the similar word "Persia."

<hi type="bold">divided--</hi>namely, among the Medes and Persians [Maurer]; or, "severed" from thee [Grotius].

28. Peres-- the explanation of "dividers" (Da 5:25), the active participle plural there being used for the passive participle singular, "dividers" for "divided." The word "Peres" alludes to the similar word "Persia." divided-- namely, among the Medes and Persians [Maurer]; or, "severed" from thee [Grotius].


<hi type="bold">29. Belshazzar ... clothed Daniel with scarlet--</hi>To come from the presence of a prince in a dress presented to the wearer as a distinction is still held a great honor in the East. Daniel was thus restored to a similar rank to what he had held under Nebuchadnezzar (<reference osisRef="Dan.2.48">Da 2:48</reference>). Godly fidelity which might be expected to bring down vengeance, as in this case, is often rewarded even in this life. The king, having promised, was ashamed before his courtiers to break his word. He perhaps also affected to despise the prophecy of his doom, as an idle threat. As to Daniel's reasons for now accepting what at first he had declined, compare Note, see on <reference osisRef="Dan.5.17">Da 5:17</reference>. The insignia of honor would be witnesses for God's glory to the world of his having by God's aid interpreted the mystic characters. The cause of his elevation too would secure the favor of the new dynasty (<reference osisRef="Dan.6.2">Da 6:2</reference>) for both himself and his captive countrymen. As the capture of the city by Cyrus was not till near daylight, there was no want of time in that eventful night for accomplishing all that is here recorded. The capture of the city so immediately after the prophecy of it (following Belshazzar's sacrilege), marked most emphatically to the whole world the connection between Babylon's sin and its punishment.

29. Belshazzar... clothed Daniel with scarlet-- To come from the presence of a prince in a dress presented to the wearer as a distinction is still held a great honor in the East. Daniel was thus restored to a similar rank to what he had held under Nebuchadnezzar (Da 2:48). Godly fidelity which might be expected to bring down vengeance, as in this case, is often rewarded even in this life. The king, having promised, was ashamed before his courtiers to break his word. He perhaps also affected to despise the prophecy of his doom, as an idle threat. As to Daniel's reasons for now accepting what at first he had declined, compare Note, see on Da 5:17. The insignia of honor would be witnesses for God's glory to the world of his having by God's aid interpreted the mystic characters. The cause of his elevation too would secure the favor of the new dynasty (Da 6:2) for both himself and his captive countrymen. As the capture of the city by Cyrus was not till near daylight, there was no want of time in that eventful night for accomplishing all that is here recorded. The capture of the city so immediately after the prophecy of it (following Belshazzar's sacrilege), marked most emphatically to the whole world the connection between Babylon's sin and its punishment.


30. Herodotus and Xenophon confirm Daniel as to the suddenness of the event. Cyrus diverted the Euphrates into a new channel and, guided by two deserters, marched by the dry bed into the city, while the Babylonians were carousing at an annual feast to the gods. See also <reference osisRef="Isa.21.5">Is 21:5</reference>; <reference osisRef="Isa.44.27">44:27</reference>; <reference osisRef="Jer.50.38">Jr 50:38</reference>, <reference osisRef="Jer.50.39">39</reference>; <reference osisRef="Jer.51.36">51:36</reference>. As to Belshazzar's being slain, compare Is 14:18-20; 21:2-9; Jr 50:29-35; 51:57.

30. Herodotus and Xenophon confirm Daniel as to the suddenness of the event. Cyrus diverted the Euphrates into a new channel and, guided by two deserters, marched by the dry bed into the city, while the Babylonians were carousing at an annual feast to the gods. See also Is 21:5; 44:27; Jr 50:38, 39; 51:36. As to Belshazzar's being slain, compare Is 14:18-20; 21:2-9; Jr 50:29-35; 51:57.


<hi type="bold">31. Darius the Median--</hi>that is, Cyaxares II, the son and successor of Astyages, 569-536 B.C. Though Koresh, or Cyrus, was leader of the assault, yet all was done in the name of Darius; therefore, he alone is mentioned here; but <reference osisRef="Dan.6.28">Da 6:28</reference> shows Daniel was not ignorant of Cyrus' share in the capture of Babylon. <reference osisRef="Isa.13.17">Is 13:17</reference>; <reference osisRef="Isa.21.2">21:2</reference>, confirm Daniel in making the Medes the leading nation in destroying Babylon. So also <reference osisRef="Jer.51.11">Jr 51:11</reference>, <reference osisRef="Jer.51.28">28</reference>. Herodotus, on the other hand, omits mentioning Darius, as that king, being weak and sensual, gave up all the authority to his energetic nephew, Cyrus [Xenophon, Cyropædia, 1.5; 8.7].

<hi type="bold">threescore and two years old--</hi>This agrees with Xenophon [Cyropædia, 8.5,19], as to Cyaxares II.  <chapter eID="Dan.5"/>

31. Darius the Median-- that is, Cyaxares II, the son and successor of Astyages, 569-536 B.C. Though Koresh, or Cyrus, was leader of the assault, yet all was done in the name of Darius; therefore, he alone is mentioned here; but Da 6:28 shows Daniel was not ignorant of Cyrus' share in the capture of Babylon. Is 13:17; 21:2, confirm Daniel in making the Medes the leading nation in destroying Babylon. So also Jr 51:11, 28. Herodotus, on the other hand, omits mentioning Darius, as that king, being weak and sensual, gave up all the authority to his energetic nephew, Cyrus [Xenophon, Cyropædia, 1.5; 8.7]. threescore and two years old-- This agrees with Xenophon [Cyropædia, 8.5,19], as to Cyaxares II.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 6</title> <title type="x-s3"><reference osisRef="Dan.6.1-Dan.6.28">Da 6:1-28</reference>. Darius' Decree: Daniel's Disobedience, and Consequent Exposure to the Lions: His Deliverance by God, and Darius' Decree.</title>

<hi type="bold">1. Darius--</hi>Grotefend has read it in the cuneiform inscriptions at Persepolis, as Darheush, that is, "Lord-King," a name applied to many of the Medo-Persian kings in common. Three of that name occur: Darius Hystaspes, 521 B.C., in whose reign the decree was carried into effect for rebuilding the temple (<reference osisRef="Ezra.4.5">Ezr 4:5</reference>; <reference osisRef="Hag.1.1">Hag 1:1</reference>); Darius Codomanus, 336 B.C., whom Alexander overcame, called "the Persian" (<reference osisRef="Neh.12.22">Ne 12:22</reference>), an expression used after the rule of Macedon was set up; and Darius Cyaxares II, between Astyages and Cyrus [ÆSCHYLUS, The Persians, 762, 763].

<hi type="bold">hundred and twenty--</hi>satraps; set over the conquered provinces (including Babylon) by Cyrus [Xenophon, Cyropædia, 8.6.1]. No doubt Cyrus acted under Darius, as in the capture of Babylon; so that Daniel rightly attributes the appointment to Darius.

CHAPTER 6 Da 6:1-28. Darius' Decree: Daniel's Disobedience, and Consequent Exposure to the Lions: His Deliverance by God, and Darius' Decree. 1. Darius-- Grotefend has read it in the cuneiform inscriptions at Persepolis, as Darheush, that is, "Lord-King," a name applied to many of the Medo-Persian kings in common. Three of that name occur: Darius Hystaspes, 521 B.C., in whose reign the decree was carried into effect for rebuilding the temple (Ezr 4:5; Hag 1:1); Darius Codomanus, 336 B.C., whom Alexander overcame, called "the Persian" (Ne 12:22), an expression used after the rule of Macedon was set up; and Darius Cyaxares II, between Astyages and Cyrus [ÆSCHYLUS, The Persians, 762, 763]. hundred and twenty-- satraps; set over the conquered provinces (including Babylon) by Cyrus [Xenophon, Cyropædia, 8.6.1]. No doubt Cyrus acted under Darius, as in the capture of Babylon; so that Daniel rightly attributes the appointment to Darius.


<hi type="bold">3. Daniel was preferred--</hi>probably because of his having so wonderfully foretold the fall of Babylon. Hence the very expression used by the queen mother on that occasion (<reference osisRef="Dan.5.12">Da 5:12</reference>) is here used, "because an excellent spirit was in him."

<hi type="bold">king thought to set him over the whole realm--</hi>Agreeing with Darius' character, weak and averse to business, which he preferred to delegate to favorites. God overruled this to the good both of Daniel, and, through him, of His people.

3. Daniel was preferred-- probably because of his having so wonderfully foretold the fall of Babylon. Hence the very expression used by the queen mother on that occasion (Da 5:12) is here used, "because an excellent spirit was in him." king thought to set him over the whole realm-- Agreeing with Darius' character, weak and averse to business, which he preferred to delegate to favorites. God overruled this to the good both of Daniel, and, through him, of His people.


<hi type="bold">4. occasion ... concerning the kingdom--</hi>pretext for accusation in his administration (<reference osisRef="Eccl.4.4">Ec 4:4</reference>).

4. occasion... concerning the kingdom-- pretext for accusation in his administration (Ec 4:4).


5. It is the highest testimony to a godly man's walk, when his most watchful enemies can find no ground of censure save in that he walks according to the law of God even where it opposes the ways of the world.


<hi type="bold">6. assembled together--</hi>literally, "assembled hastily and tumultuously." Had they come more deliberately, the king might have refused their grant; but they gave him no time for reflection, representing that their test-decree was necessary for the safety of the king.

<hi type="bold">live for ever--</hi>Arrian [Alexander, 4] records that Cyrus was the first before whom prostration was practised. It is an undesigned mark of genuineness that Daniel should mention no prostration before Nebuchadnezzar or Darius (see on <reference osisRef="Dan.3.9">Da 3:9</reference>).

6. assembled together-- literally, "assembled hastily and tumultuously." Had they come more deliberately, the king might have refused their grant; but they gave him no time for reflection, representing that their test-decree was necessary for the safety of the king. live for ever-- Arrian [Alexander, 4] records that Cyrus was the first before whom prostration was practised. It is an undesigned mark of genuineness that Daniel should mention no prostration before Nebuchadnezzar or Darius (see on Da 3:9).


7. The Persian king was regarded as representative of the chief god, Ormuzd; the seven princes near him represented the seven Amshaspands before the throne of Ormuzd; hence Mordecai (<reference osisRef="Esth.3.4">Es 3:4</reference>) refused such homage to Haman, the king's prime minister, as inconsistent with what is due to God alone. A weak despot, like Darius, much under the control of his princes, might easily be persuaded that such a decree would test the obedience of the Chaldeans just conquered, and tame their proud spirits. So absolute is the king in the East, that he is regarded not merely as the ruler, but the owner, of the people.

<hi type="bold">All ... governors ... counsellors, &c.--</hi>Several functionaries are here specified, not mentioned in <reference osisRef="Dan.6.4">Da 6:4</reference>, <reference osisRef="Dan.6.6">6</reference>. They evidently exaggerated the case of the weak king, as if their request was that of all the officers in the empire.

<hi type="bold">den of lions--</hi>an underground cave or pit, covered with a stone. It is an undesigned proof of genuineness, that the "fiery furnace" is not made the means of punishment here, as in <reference osisRef="Dan.3.20">Da 3:20</reference>; for the Persians were fire-worshippers, which the Babylonians were not.

7. The Persian king was regarded as representative of the chief god, Ormuzd; the seven princes near him represented the seven Amshaspands before the throne of Ormuzd; hence Mordecai (Es 3:4) refused such homage to Haman, the king's prime minister, as inconsistent with what is due to God alone. A weak despot, like Darius, much under the control of his princes, might easily be persuaded that such a decree would test the obedience of the Chaldeans just conquered, and tame their proud spirits. So absolute is the king in the East, that he is regarded not merely as the ruler, but the owner, of the people. All... governors... counsellors, &c.-- Several functionaries are here specified, not mentioned in Da 6:4, 6. They evidently exaggerated the case of the weak king, as if their request was that of all the officers in the empire. den of lions-- an underground cave or pit, covered with a stone. It is an undesigned proof of genuineness, that the "fiery furnace" is not made the means of punishment here, as in Da 3:20; for the Persians were fire-worshippers, which the Babylonians were not.


<hi type="bold">8. decree--</hi>or, "interdict."

<hi type="bold">that it be not changed--</hi>(<reference osisRef="Esth.1.19">Es 1:19</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Cor.8.8">8:8</reference>). This immutability of the king's commands was peculiar to the Medes and Persians: it was due to their regarding him infallible as the representative of Ormuzd; it was not so among the Babylonians.

<hi type="bold">Medes and Persians--</hi>The order of the names is an undesigned mark of genuineness. Cyrus the Persian reigned subordinate to Darius the Mede as to dignity, though exercising more real power. After Darius' death, the order is "the Persians and Medes" (<reference osisRef="Esth.1.14">Es 1:14</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Cor.1.19">19</reference>, &c.).

8. decree-- or, "interdict." that it be not changed-- (Es 1:19; 8:8). This immutability of the king's commands was peculiar to the Medes and Persians: it was due to their regarding him infallible as the representative of Ormuzd; it was not so among the Babylonians. Medes and Persians-- The order of the names is an undesigned mark of genuineness. Cyrus the Persian reigned subordinate to Darius the Mede as to dignity, though exercising more real power. After Darius' death, the order is "the Persians and Medes" (Es 1:14, 19, &c.).


9. Such a despotic decree is quite explicable by remembering that the king, as the incarnation of Ormuzd, might demand such an act of religious obedience as a test of loyalty. Persecuting laws are always made on false pretenses. Instead of bitter complaints against men, Daniel prays to God. Though having vast business as a ruler of the empire, he finds time to pray thrice a day. Daniel's three companions (<reference osisRef="Dan.3.12">Da 3:12</reference>), are not alluded to here, nor any other Jew who conscientiously may have disregarded the edict, as the conspirators aimed at Daniel alone (<reference osisRef="Dan.6.5">Da 6:5</reference>).

9. Such a despotic decree is quite explicable by remembering that the king, as the incarnation of Ormuzd, might demand such an act of religious obedience as a test of loyalty. Persecuting laws are always made on false pretenses. Instead of bitter complaints against men, Daniel prays to God. Though having vast business as a ruler of the empire, he finds time to pray thrice a day. Daniel's three companions (Da 3:12), are not alluded to here, nor any other Jew who conscientiously may have disregarded the edict, as the conspirators aimed at Daniel alone (Da 6:5).


<hi type="bold">10. when Daniel knew ... writing ... signed--</hi>and that, therefore, the power of advising the king against it was taken from him.

<hi type="bold">went into his house--</hi>withdrawing from the God-dishonoring court.

<hi type="bold">windows ... open--</hi>not in vainglory, but that there might be no obstruction to his view of the direction in which Jerusalem, the earthly seat of Jehovah under the Old Testament, lay; and that the sight of heaven might draw his mind off from earthly thoughts. To Christ in the heavenly temple let us turn our eyes in prayer, from this land of our captivity (<reference osisRef="1Kgs.8.44">1Ki 8:44</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Kgs.8.48">48</reference>; <reference osisRef="2Chr.6.29">2Ch 6:29</reference>, 34, 38; <reference osisRef="Ps.5.7">Psa 5:7</reference>).

<hi type="bold">chamber--</hi>the upper room, where prayer was generally offered by the Jews (<reference osisRef="Acts.1.13">Ac 1:13</reference>). Not on the housetop (<reference osisRef="Acts.10.9">Ac 10:9</reference>), where he would be conspicuous.

<hi type="bold">upon his knees--</hi>Humble attitudes in prayer become humble suppliants.

<hi type="bold">three times a day--</hi>(<reference osisRef="Ps.55.17">Psa 55:17</reference>). The third, sixth, and ninth hour; our nine, twelve, and three o'clock (<reference osisRef="Acts.2.15">Ac 2:15</reference>; <reference osisRef="2Cor.10.9">10:9</reference>; <reference osisRef="2Cor.3.1">3:1</reference>; 10:30; compare <reference osisRef="Dan.9.21">Da 9:21</reference>).

<hi type="bold">as ... aforetime--</hi>not from contempt of the king's command.

10. when Daniel knew... writing... signed-- and that, therefore, the power of advising the king against it was taken from him. went into his house-- withdrawing from the God-dishonoring court. windows... open-- not in vainglory, but that there might be no obstruction to his view of the direction in which Jerusalem, the earthly seat of Jehovah under the Old Testament, lay; and that the sight of heaven might draw his mind off from earthly thoughts. To Christ in the heavenly temple let us turn our eyes in prayer, from this land of our captivity (1Ki 8:44, 48; 2Ch 6:29, 34, 38; Psa 5:7). chamber-- the upper room, where prayer was generally offered by the Jews (Ac 1:13). Not on the housetop (Ac 10:9), where he would be conspicuous. upon his knees-- Humble attitudes in prayer become humble suppliants. three times a day-- (Psa 55:17). The third, sixth, and ninth hour; our nine, twelve, and three o'clock (Ac 2:15; 10:9; 3:1; 10:30; compare Da 9:21). as... aforetime-- not from contempt of the king's command.


<hi type="bold">11. assembled--</hi>as in <reference osisRef="Dan.6.6">Da 6:6</reference>, "assembled" or "ran hastily," so as to come upon Daniel suddenly and detect him in the act.

11. assembled-- as in Da 6:6, "assembled" or "ran hastily," so as to come upon Daniel suddenly and detect him in the act.


12. They preface their attack by alleging the king's edict, so as to get him again to confirm it unalterably, before they mention Daniel's name. Not to break a wicked promise, is not firmness, but guilty obstinacy (<reference osisRef="Matt.14.9">Mt 14:9</reference>; <reference osisRef="Mark.6.26">Mr 6:26</reference>).

12. They preface their attack by alleging the king's edict, so as to get him again to confirm it unalterably, before they mention Daniel's name. Not to break a wicked promise, is not firmness, but guilty obstinacy (Mt 14:9; Mr 6:26).


<hi type="bold">13. That Daniel--</hi>contemptuously.

<hi type="bold">of ... captivity of Judah--</hi>recently a captive among thy servants, the Babylonians--one whom humble obedience most becomes. Thus they aggravate his guilt, omitting mention of his being prime minister, which might only remind Darius of Daniel's state services.

<hi type="bold">regardeth not thee--</hi>because he regarded God (<reference osisRef="Acts.4.19">Ac 4:19</reference>; <reference osisRef="Acts.5.29">5:29</reference>).

13. That Daniel-- contemptuously. of... captivity of Judah-- recently a captive among thy servants, the Babylonians--one whom humble obedience most becomes. Thus they aggravate his guilt, omitting mention of his being prime minister, which might only remind Darius of Daniel's state services. regardeth not thee-- because he regarded God (Ac 4:19; 5:29).


<hi type="bold">14. displeased with himself--</hi>for having suffered himself to be entrapped into such a hasty decree (<reference osisRef="Prov.29.20">Pr 29:20</reference>). On the one hand he was pressed by the immutability of the law, fear that the princes might conspire against him, and desire to consult for his own reputation, not to seem fickle; on the other, by regard for Daniel, and a desire to save him from the effects of his own rash decree.

<hi type="bold">till ... going down of ... sun--</hi>The king took this time to deliberate, thinking that after sunset Daniel would be spared till morning, and that meanwhile some way of escape would turn up. But (<reference osisRef="Dan.6.15">Da 6:15</reference>) the conspirators "assembled tumultuously" (literally) to prevent this delay in the execution, lest the king should meantime change his decree.

14. displeased with himself-- for having suffered himself to be entrapped into such a hasty decree (Pr 29:20). On the one hand he was pressed by the immutability of the law, fear that the princes might conspire against him, and desire to consult for his own reputation, not to seem fickle; on the other, by regard for Daniel, and a desire to save him from the effects of his own rash decree. till... going down of... sun-- The king took this time to deliberate, thinking that after sunset Daniel would be spared till morning, and that meanwhile some way of escape would turn up. But (Da 6:15) the conspirators "assembled tumultuously" (literally) to prevent this delay in the execution, lest the king should meantime change his decree.


<hi type="bold">16. Thy God ... will deliver thee--</hi>The heathen believed in the interposition of the gods at times in favor of their worshippers. Darius recognized Daniel's God as a god, but not the only true God. He had heard of the deliverance of the three youths in <reference osisRef="Dan.3.26">Da 3:26</reference>, <reference osisRef="Dan.3.27">27</reference> and hence augurs Daniel's deliverance. I am not my own master, and cannot deliver thee, however much I wish it. "Thy God will." Kings are the slaves of their flatterers. Men admire piety to God in others, however disregarding Him themselves.

16. Thy God... will deliver thee-- The heathen believed in the interposition of the gods at times in favor of their worshippers. Darius recognized Daniel's God as a god, but not the only true God. He had heard of the deliverance of the three youths in Da 3:26, 27 and hence augurs Daniel's deliverance. I am not my own master, and cannot deliver thee, however much I wish it. "Thy God will." Kings are the slaves of their flatterers. Men admire piety to God in others, however disregarding Him themselves.


<hi type="bold">17. stone ... sealed--</hi>typical of Christ's entombment under a seal (<reference osisRef="Matt.27.66">Mt 27:66</reference>). Divinely ordered, that the deliverance might be the more striking.

<hi type="bold">his own signet, and ... of his lords--</hi>The concurrence of the lords was required for making laws. In this kingly power had fallen since it was in Nebuchadnezzar's hands. The Median king is a puppet in his lords' hands; they take the security of their own seal as well as his, that he should not release Daniel. The king's seal guaranteed Daniel from being killed by them, should he escape the lions.

17. stone... sealed-- typical of Christ's entombment under a seal (Mt 27:66). Divinely ordered, that the deliverance might be the more striking. his own signet, and... of his lords-- The concurrence of the lords was required for making laws. In this kingly power had fallen since it was in Nebuchadnezzar's hands. The Median king is a puppet in his lords' hands; they take the security of their own seal as well as his, that he should not release Daniel. The king's seal guaranteed Daniel from being killed by them, should he escape the lions.


<hi type="bold">18. neither were instruments of music, &c.--</hi>Gesenius translates, "concubines." Daniel's mentioning to us as an extraordinary thing of Darius, that he neither approached his table nor his harem, agrees with Xenophon's picture of him as devoted to wine and women, vain, and without self-control. He is sorry for the evil which he himself had caused, yet takes no steps to remedy it. There are many such halters between good and bad, who are ill at ease in their sins, yet go forward in them, and are drawn on by others.

18. neither were instruments of music, &c.-- Gesenius translates, "concubines." Daniel's mentioning to us as an extraordinary thing of Darius, that he neither approached his table nor his harem, agrees with Xenophon's picture of him as devoted to wine and women, vain, and without self-control. He is sorry for the evil which he himself had caused, yet takes no steps to remedy it. There are many such halters between good and bad, who are ill at ease in their sins, yet go forward in them, and are drawn on by others.


19. His grief overcame his fear of the nobles.


<hi type="bold">20. living God--</hi>having life Himself, and able to preserve thy life; contrasted with the lifeless idols. Darius borrowed the phrase from Daniel; God extorting from an idolater a confession of the truth.

<hi type="bold">thou servest continually--</hi>in times of persecution, as well as in times of peace.

<hi type="bold">is thy God ... able--</hi>the language of doubt, yet hope.

20. living God-- having life Himself, and able to preserve thy life; contrasted with the lifeless idols. Darius borrowed the phrase from Daniel; God extorting from an idolater a confession of the truth. thou servest continually-- in times of persecution, as well as in times of peace. is thy God... able-- the language of doubt, yet hope.


21. Daniel might have indulged in anger at the king, but does not; his sole thought is, God's glory has been set forth in his deliverance.


<hi type="bold">22. his angel--</hi>the instrument, not the author, of his deliverance (<reference osisRef="Ps.91.11">Psa 91:11</reference>; <reference osisRef="Ps.34.7">34:7</reference>).

<hi type="bold">shut ... lions' mouths--</hi>(<reference osisRef="Heb.11.33">He 11:33</reference>). So spiritually, God will shut the roaring lion's mouth (<reference osisRef="1Pet.5.8">1Pe 5:8</reference>) for His servants.

<hi type="bold">forasmuch as before him innocency--</hi>not absolutely (in <reference osisRef="Dan.9.7">Da 9:7</reference>, <reference osisRef="Dan.9.18">18</reference> he disclaims such a plea), but relatively to this case. God has attested the justice of my cause in standing up for His worship, by delivering me. Therefore, the "forasmuch" does not justify Rome's doctrine of works meriting salvation.

<hi type="bold">before thee--</hi>Obedience to God is in strictest compatibility with loyalty to the king (<reference osisRef="Matt.22.21">Mt 22:21</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Pet.2.17">1Pe 2:17</reference>). Daniel's disobedience to the king was seeming, not real, because it was not from contempt of the king, but from regard to the King of kings (compare <reference osisRef="Acts.24.16">Ac 24:16</reference>).

22. his angel-- the instrument, not the author, of his deliverance (Psa 91:11; 34:7). shut... lions' mouths-- (He 11:33). So spiritually, God will shut the roaring lion's mouth (1Pe 5:8) for His servants. forasmuch as before him innocency-- not absolutely (in Da 9:7, 18 he disclaims such a plea), but relatively to this case. God has attested the justice of my cause in standing up for His worship, by delivering me. Therefore, the "forasmuch" does not justify Rome's doctrine of works meriting salvation. before thee-- Obedience to God is in strictest compatibility with loyalty to the king (Mt 22:21; 1Pe 2:17). Daniel's disobedience to the king was seeming, not real, because it was not from contempt of the king, but from regard to the King of kings (compare Ac 24:16).


<hi type="bold">23. because he believed--</hi>"Faith" is stated in <reference osisRef="Heb.11.33">He 11:33</reference> to have been his actuating principle: a prelude to the Gospel. His belief was not with a view to a miraculous deliverance. He shut his eyes to the event, committing the keeping of his soul to God, in well-doing, as unto a faithful Creator (<reference osisRef="1Pet.4.19">1Pe 4:19</reference>), sure of deliverance in a better life, if not in this.

23. because he believed-- "Faith" is stated in He 11:33 to have been his actuating principle: a prelude to the Gospel. His belief was not with a view to a miraculous deliverance. He shut his eyes to the event, committing the keeping of his soul to God, in well-doing, as unto a faithful Creator (1Pe 4:19), sure of deliverance in a better life, if not in this.


24. (<reference osisRef="Deut.19.19">De 19:19</reference>; <reference osisRef="Prov.19.5">Pr 19:5</reference>).

<hi type="bold">accused--</hi>literally, "devoured the bones and flesh." It was just that they who had torn Daniel's character, and sought the tearing of his person, should be themselves given to be torn in pieces (<reference osisRef="Prov.11.8">Pr 11:8</reference>).

<hi type="bold">their children--</hi>Among the Persians, all the kindred were involved in the guilt of one culprit. The Mosaic law expressly forbade this (<reference osisRef="Deut.24.16">De 24:16</reference>; <reference osisRef="2Kgs.14.6">2Ki 14:6</reference>).

<hi type="bold">or ever--</hi>that is, "before ever." The lions' sparing Daniel could not have been because they were full, as they showed the keenness of their hunger on the accusers.

24. (De 19:19; Pr 19:5). accused-- literally, "devoured the bones and flesh." It was just that they who had torn Daniel's character, and sought the tearing of his person, should be themselves given to be torn in pieces (Pr 11:8). their children-- Among the Persians, all the kindred were involved in the guilt of one culprit. The Mosaic law expressly forbade this (De 24:16; 2Ki 14:6). or ever-- that is, "before ever." The lions' sparing Daniel could not have been because they were full, as they showed the keenness of their hunger on the accusers.


26. Stronger than the decree (<reference osisRef="Dan.3.29">Da 3:29</reference>). That was negative; this, positive; not merely men must say "nothing amiss of," but must "fear before God."

26. Stronger than the decree (Da 3:29). That was negative; this, positive; not merely men must say "nothing amiss of," but must "fear before God."


28. It was in the third year of Cyrus that Daniel's visions (Da 10:<reference osisRef="1Cor.12.13">1-12:13</reference>) were given. Daniel "prospered" because of his prophecies (<reference osisRef="Ezra.1.1">Ezr 1:1</reference>, <reference osisRef="2Cor.1.2">2</reference>). <chapter eID="Dan.6"/>

28. It was in the third year of Cyrus that Daniel's visions (Da 10:1-12:13) were given. Daniel "prospered" because of his prophecies (Ezr 1:1, 2).


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 7</title> <title type="x-s3"><reference osisRef="Dan.7.1-Dan.7.28">Da 7:1-28</reference>. Vision of the Four Beasts.</title>
 This chapter treats of the same subject as the second chapter. But there the four kingdoms, and Messiah's final kingdom, were regarded according to their external political aspect, but here according to the mind of God concerning them, and their moral features. The outward political history had been shown in its general features to the world ruler, whose position fitted him for receiving such a revelation. But God's prophet here receives disclosures as to the characters of the powers of the world, in a religious point of view, suited to his position and receptivity. Hence in the second chapter the images are taken from the inanimate sphere; in the seventh chapter they are taken from the animate. Nebuchadnezzar saw superficially the world power as a splendid human figure, and the kingdom of God as a mere stone at the first. Daniel sees the world kingdoms in their inner essence as of an animal nature lower than human, being estranged from God; and that only in the kingdom of God ("the Son of man," the representative man) is the true dignity of man realized. So, as contrasted with Nebuchadnezzar's vision, the kingdom of God appears to Daniel, from the very first, superior to the world kingdom. For though in physical force the beasts excel man, man has essentially spiritual powers. Nebuchadnezzar's colossal image represents mankind in its own strength, but only the outward man. Daniel sees man spiritually degraded to the beast level, led by blind impulses, through his alienation from God. It is only from above that the perfect Son of man comes, and in His kingdom man attains his true destiny. Compare <reference osisRef="Ps.8.1-Ps.8.9">Psa 8:1-9</reference> with <reference osisRef="Gen.1.26-Gen.1.28">Ge 1:26-28</reference>. Humanity is impossible without divinity: it sinks to bestiality (<reference osisRef="Ps.32.9">Psa 32:9</reference>; <reference osisRef="Ps.49.20">49:20</reference>; <reference osisRef="Ps.73.22">73:22</reference>). Obstinate heathen nations are compared to "bulls" (<reference osisRef="Ps.68.30">Psa 68:30</reference>); Egypt to the dragon in the Nile (<reference osisRef="Isa.27.1">Is 27:1</reference>; <reference osisRef="Isa.51.9">51:9</reference>; <reference osisRef="Ezek.29.3">Eze 29:3</reference>). The animal with all its sagacity looks always to the ground, without consciousness of relation to God. What elevates man is communion with God, in willing subjection to Him. The moment he tries to exalt himself to independence of God, as did Nebuchadnezzar (<reference osisRef="Dan.4.30">Da 4:30</reference>), he sinks to the beast's level. Daniel's acquaintance with the animal colossal figures in Babylon and Nineveh was a psychological preparation for his animal visions. <reference osisRef="Hos.13.7">Ho 13:7</reference>, <reference osisRef="Hos.13.8">8</reference> would occur to him while viewing those ensigns of the world power. Compare <reference osisRef="Jer.2.15">Jr 2:15</reference>; <reference osisRef="2Cor.4.7">4:7</reference>; <reference osisRef="2Cor.5.6">5:6</reference>.

<hi type="bold">1. Belshazzar--</hi>Good Hebrew manuscripts have "Belshazzar"; meaning "Bel is to be burnt with hostile fire" (<reference osisRef="Jer.50.2">Jr 50:2</reference>; <reference osisRef="Jer.51.44">51:44</reference>). In the history he is called by his ordinary name; in the prophecy, which gives his true destiny, he is called a corresponding name, by the change of a letter.

<hi type="bold">visions of his head--</hi>not confused "dreams," but distinct images seen while his mind was collected.

<hi type="bold">sum--</hi>a "summary." In predictions, generally, details are not given so fully as to leave no scope for free agency, faith, and patient waiting for God manifesting His will in the event. He "wrote" it for the Church in all ages; he "told" it for the comfort of his captive fellow countrymen.

CHAPTER 7 Da 7:1-28. Vision of the Four Beasts. This chapter treats of the same subject as the second chapter. But there the four kingdoms, and Messiah's final kingdom, were regarded according to their external political aspect, but here according to the mind of God concerning them, and their moral features. The outward political history had been shown in its general features to the world ruler, whose position fitted him for receiving such a revelation. But God's prophet here receives disclosures as to the characters of the powers of the world, in a religious point of view, suited to his position and receptivity. Hence in the second chapter the images are taken from the inanimate sphere; in the seventh chapter they are taken from the animate. Nebuchadnezzar saw superficially the world power as a splendid human figure, and the kingdom of God as a mere stone at the first. Daniel sees the world kingdoms in their inner essence as of an animal nature lower than human, being estranged from God; and that only in the kingdom of God ("the Son of man," the representative man) is the true dignity of man realized. So, as contrasted with Nebuchadnezzar's vision, the kingdom of God appears to Daniel, from the very first, superior to the world kingdom. For though in physical force the beasts excel man, man has essentially spiritual powers. Nebuchadnezzar's colossal image represents mankind in its own strength, but only the outward man. Daniel sees man spiritually degraded to the beast level, led by blind impulses, through his alienation from God. It is only from above that the perfect Son of man comes, and in His kingdom man attains his true destiny. Compare Psa 8:1-9 with Ge 1:26-28. Humanity is impossible without divinity: it sinks to bestiality (Psa 32:9; 49:20; 73:22). Obstinate heathen nations are compared to "bulls" (Psa 68:30); Egypt to the dragon in the Nile (Is 27:1; 51:9; Eze 29:3). The animal with all its sagacity looks always to the ground, without consciousness of relation to God. What elevates man is communion with God, in willing subjection to Him. The moment he tries to exalt himself to independence of God, as did Nebuchadnezzar (Da 4:30), he sinks to the beast's level. Daniel's acquaintance with the animal colossal figures in Babylon and Nineveh was a psychological preparation for his animal visions. Ho 13:7, 8 would occur to him while viewing those ensigns of the world power. Compare Jr 2:15; 4:7; 5:6. 1. Belshazzar-- Good Hebrew manuscripts have "Belshazzar"; meaning "Bel is to be burnt with hostile fire" (Jr 50:2; 51:44). In the history he is called by his ordinary name; in the prophecy, which gives his true destiny, he is called a corresponding name, by the change of a letter. visions of his head-- not confused "dreams," but distinct images seen while his mind was collected. sum-- a "summary." In predictions, generally, details are not given so fully as to leave no scope for free agency, faith, and patient waiting for God manifesting His will in the event. He "wrote" it for the Church in all ages; he "told" it for the comfort of his captive fellow countrymen.


<hi type="bold">2. the four winds--</hi>answering to the "four beasts"; their several conflicts in the four quarters or directions of the world.

<hi type="bold">strove--</hi>burst forth (from the abyss) [Maurer].

<hi type="bold">sea--</hi>The world powers rise out of the agitations of the political sea (<reference osisRef="Jer.46.7">Jr 46:7</reference>, <reference osisRef="Jer.46.8">8</reference>; <reference osisRef="Luke.21.25">Lu 21:25</reference>; compare <reference osisRef="Rev.13.1">Re 13:1</reference>; <reference osisRef="Rev.17.15">17:15</reference>; <reference osisRef="Rev.21.1">21:1</reference>); the kingdom of God and the Son of man from the clouds of heaven (<reference osisRef="Dan.7.13">Da 7:13</reference>; compare <reference osisRef="John.8.23">Joh 8:23</reference>). Tregelles takes "the great sea" to mean, as always elsewhere in Scripture (<reference osisRef="Josh.1.4">Jos 1:4</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Cor.9.1">9:1</reference>), the Mediterranean, the center territorially of the four kingdoms of the vision, which all border on it and have Jerusalem subject to them. Babylon did not border on the Mediterranean, nor rule Jerusalem, till Nebuchadnezzar's time, when both things took place simultaneously. Persia encircled more of this sea, namely, from the Hellespont to Cyrene. Greece did not become a monarchy before Alexander's time, but then, succeeding to Persia, it became mistress of Jerusalem. It surrounded still more of the Mediterranean, adding the coasts of Greece to the part held by Persia. Rome, under Augustus, realized three things at once--it became a monarchy; it became mistress of the last of the four parts of Alexander's empire (symbolized by the four heads of the third beast), and of Jerusalem; it surrounded all the Mediterranean.

2. the four winds-- answering to the "four beasts"; their several conflicts in the four quarters or directions of the world. strove-- burst forth (from the abyss) [Maurer]. sea-- The world powers rise out of the agitations of the political sea (Jr 46:7, 8; Lu 21:25; compare Re 13:1; 17:15; 21:1); the kingdom of God and the Son of man from the clouds of heaven (Da 7:13; compare Joh 8:23). Tregelles takes "the great sea" to mean, as always elsewhere in Scripture (Jos 1:4; 9:1), the Mediterranean, the center territorially of the four kingdoms of the vision, which all border on it and have Jerusalem subject to them. Babylon did not border on the Mediterranean, nor rule Jerusalem, till Nebuchadnezzar's time, when both things took place simultaneously. Persia encircled more of this sea, namely, from the Hellespont to Cyrene. Greece did not become a monarchy before Alexander's time, but then, succeeding to Persia, it became mistress of Jerusalem. It surrounded still more of the Mediterranean, adding the coasts of Greece to the part held by Persia. Rome, under Augustus, realized three things at once--it became a monarchy; it became mistress of the last of the four parts of Alexander's empire (symbolized by the four heads of the third beast), and of Jerusalem; it surrounded all the Mediterranean.


<hi type="bold">3. beasts--</hi>not living animals, as the cherubic four in <reference osisRef="Rev.4.7">Re 4:7</reference> (for the original is a different word from "beasts," and ought to be there translated, living animals). The cherubic living animals represent redeemed man, combining in himself the highest forms of animal life. But the "beasts" here represent the world powers, in their beast-like, grovelling character. It is on the fundamental harmony between nature and spirit, between the three kingdoms of nature, history, and revelation, that Scripture symbolism rests. The selection of symbols is not arbitrary, but based on the essence of things.

3. beasts-- not living animals, as the cherubic four in Re 4:7 (for the original is a different word from "beasts," and ought to be there translated, living animals). The cherubic living animals represent redeemed man, combining in himself the highest forms of animal life. But the "beasts" here represent the world powers, in their beast-like, grovelling character. It is on the fundamental harmony between nature and spirit, between the three kingdoms of nature, history, and revelation, that Scripture symbolism rests. The selection of symbols is not arbitrary, but based on the essence of things.


<hi type="bold">4. lion--</hi>the symbol of strength and courage; chief among the kingdoms, as the lion among the beasts. Nebuchadnezzar is called "the lion" (<reference osisRef="Jer.4.7">Jr 4:7</reference>).

<hi type="bold">eagle's wings--</hi>denoting a widespread and rapidly acquired (<reference osisRef="Isa.46.11">Is 46:11</reference>; <reference osisRef="Jer.4.13">Jr 4:13</reference>; <reference osisRef="Lam.4.19">La 4:19</reference>; <reference osisRef="Hab.1.6">Ha 1:6</reference>) empire (<reference osisRef="Jer.48.40">Jr 48:40</reference>).

<hi type="bold">plucked--</hi>Its ability for widespread conquests passed away under Evil-merodach, &c. [Grotius]; rather, during Nebuchadnezzar's privation of his throne, while deranged.

<hi type="bold">it was lifted up from the earth--</hi>that is, from its grovelling bestiality.

<hi type="bold">made stand ... as a man--</hi>So long as Nebuchadnezzar, in haughty pride, relied on his own strength, he forfeited the true dignity of man, and was therefore degraded to be with the beasts. <reference osisRef="Dan.4.16">Da 4:16</reference>: "Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him." But after he learned by this sore discipline that "the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men" (<reference osisRef="Dan.4.35">Da 4:35</reference>, <reference osisRef="Dan.4.36">36</reference>), the change took place in him, "a man's heart is given to him; instead of his former beast's heart, he attains man's true position, namely, to be consciously dependent on God." Compare <reference osisRef="Ps.9.20">Psa 9:20</reference>.

4. lion-- the symbol of strength and courage; chief among the kingdoms, as the lion among the beasts. Nebuchadnezzar is called "the lion" (Jr 4:7). eagle's wings-- denoting a widespread and rapidly acquired (Is 46:11; Jr 4:13; La 4:19; Ha 1:6) empire (Jr 48:40). plucked-- Its ability for widespread conquests passed away under Evil-merodach, &c. [Grotius]; rather, during Nebuchadnezzar's privation of his throne, while deranged. it was lifted up from the earth-- that is, from its grovelling bestiality. made stand... as a man-- So long as Nebuchadnezzar, in haughty pride, relied on his own strength, he forfeited the true dignity of man, and was therefore degraded to be with the beasts. Da 4:16: "Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him." But after he learned by this sore discipline that "the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men" (Da 4:35, 36), the change took place in him, "a man's heart is given to him; instead of his former beast's heart, he attains man's true position, namely, to be consciously dependent on God." Compare Psa 9:20.


<hi type="bold">5. bear--</hi>symbolizing the austere life of the Persians in their mountains, also their cruelty (<reference osisRef="Isa.13.17">Is 13:17</reference>, <reference osisRef="Isa.13.18">18</reference>; Cambyses, Ochus, and other of the Persian princes were notoriously cruel; the Persian laws involved, for one man's offense, the whole kindred and neighborhood in destruction, <reference osisRef="Dan.6.24">Da 6:24</reference>) and rapacity. "A bear is an all-devouring animal" [Aristotle, 8.5], (<reference osisRef="Jer.51.48">Jr 51:48</reference>, <reference osisRef="Jer.51.56">56</reference>).

<hi type="bold">raised ... itself on one side--</hi>but the Hebrew, "It raised up one dominion." The Medes, an ancient people, and the Persians, a modern tribe, formed one united sovereignty in contrast to the third and fourth kingdoms, each originally one, afterwards divided. English Version is the result of a slight change of a Hebrew letter. The idea then would be, "It lay on one of its fore feet, and stood on the other"; a figure still to be seen on one of the stones of Babylon [Munter, The Religion of Babylonia, 112]; denoting a kingdom that had been at rest, but is now rousing itself for conquest. Media is the lower side, passiveness; Persia, the upper, active element [Auberlen]. The three ribs in its mouth are Media, Lydia, and Babylon, brought under the Persian sway. Rather, Babylon, Lydia, and Egypt, not properly parts of its body, but seized by Medo-Persia [Sir Isaac Newton]. Called "ribs" because they strengthened the Medo-Persian empire. "Between its teeth," as being much grinded by it.

<hi type="bold">devour much flesh--</hi>that is, subjugate many nations.

5. bear-- symbolizing the austere life of the Persians in their mountains, also their cruelty (Is 13:17, 18; Cambyses, Ochus, and other of the Persian princes were notoriously cruel; the Persian laws involved, for one man's offense, the whole kindred and neighborhood in destruction, Da 6:24) and rapacity. "A bear is an all-devouring animal" [Aristotle, 8.5], (Jr 51:48, 56). raised... itself on one side-- but the Hebrew, "It raised up one dominion." The Medes, an ancient people, and the Persians, a modern tribe, formed one united sovereignty in contrast to the third and fourth kingdoms, each originally one, afterwards divided. English Version is the result of a slight change of a Hebrew letter. The idea then would be, "It lay on one of its fore feet, and stood on the other"; a figure still to be seen on one of the stones of Babylon [Munter, The Religion of Babylonia, 112]; denoting a kingdom that had been at rest, but is now rousing itself for conquest. Media is the lower side, passiveness; Persia, the upper, active element [Auberlen]. The three ribs in its mouth are Media, Lydia, and Babylon, brought under the Persian sway. Rather, Babylon, Lydia, and Egypt, not properly parts of its body, but seized by Medo-Persia [Sir Isaac Newton]. Called "ribs" because they strengthened the Medo-Persian empire. "Between its teeth," as being much grinded by it. devour much flesh-- that is, subjugate many nations.


<hi type="bold">6. leopard--</hi>smaller than the lion; swift (<reference osisRef="Hab.1.8">Ha 1:8</reference>); cruel (<reference osisRef="Isa.11.6">Is 11:6</reference>), the opposite of tame; springing suddenly from its hiding place on its prey (<reference osisRef="Hos.13.7">Ho 13:7</reference>); spotted. So Alexander, a small king, of a small kingdom, Macedon, attacked Darius at the head of the vast empire reaching from the Ægean Sea to the Indies. In twelve years he subjugated part of Europe, and all Asia from Illyricum and the Adriatic to the Ganges, not so much fighting as conquering [Jerome]. Hence, whereas Babylon is represented with two wings, Macedon has four, so rapid were its conquests. The various spots denote the various nations incorporated into his empire [Bochart]; or Alexander's own variation in character, at one time mild, at another cruel, now temperate, and now drunken and licentious.

<hi type="bold">four heads--</hi>explained in <reference osisRef="Dan.8.8">Da 8:8</reference>, <reference osisRef="Dan.8.22">22</reference>; the four kingdoms of the Diadochi or "successors" into which the Macedonian empire was divided at the death of Alexander, namely, Macedon and Greece under Cassander, Thrace and Bithynia under Lysimachus, Egypt under Ptolemy, and Syria under Seleucus.

<hi type="bold">dominion ... given to it--</hi>by God; not by Alexander's own might. For how unlikely it was that thirty thousand men should overthrow several hundreds of thousands! Josephus [Antiquities, 11.6] says that Alexander adored the high priest of Jerusalem, saying that he at Dium in Macedonia had seen a vision of God so habited, inviting him to go to Asia, and promising him success.

6. leopard-- smaller than the lion; swift (Ha 1:8); cruel (Is 11:6), the opposite of tame; springing suddenly from its hiding place on its prey (Ho 13:7); spotted. So Alexander, a small king, of a small kingdom, Macedon, attacked Darius at the head of the vast empire reaching from the Ægean Sea to the Indies. In twelve years he subjugated part of Europe, and all Asia from Illyricum and the Adriatic to the Ganges, not so much fighting as conquering [Jerome]. Hence, whereas Babylon is represented with two wings, Macedon has four, so rapid were its conquests. The various spots denote the various nations incorporated into his empire [Bochart]; or Alexander's own variation in character, at one time mild, at another cruel, now temperate, and now drunken and licentious. four heads-- explained in Da 8:8, 22; the four kingdoms of the Diadochi or "successors" into which the Macedonian empire was divided at the death of Alexander, namely, Macedon and Greece under Cassander, Thrace and Bithynia under Lysimachus, Egypt under Ptolemy, and Syria under Seleucus. dominion... given to it-- by God; not by Alexander's own might. For how unlikely it was that thirty thousand men should overthrow several hundreds of thousands! Josephus [Antiquities, 11.6] says that Alexander adored the high priest of Jerusalem, saying that he at Dium in Macedonia had seen a vision of God so habited, inviting him to go to Asia, and promising him success.


<hi type="bold">7. As Daniel lived under the kingdom of the first beast, and therefore needed not to describe it, and as the second and third are described fully in the second part of the book, the chief emphasis falls on the fourth. Also prophecy most dwells on the end, which is the consummation of the preceding series of events. It is in the fourth that the world power manifests fully its God-opposing nature. Whereas the three former kingdoms were designated respectively, as a lion, bear, and leopard, no particular beast is specified as the image of the fourth; for Rome is so terrible as to be not describable by any one, but combines in itself all that we can imagine inexpressibly fierce in all beasts. Hence thrice (<reference osisRef="Dan.7.7">Da 7:7</reference>, 19, 23) it is repeated, that the fourth was "diverse from all" the others. The formula of introduction, "I saw in the night visions," occurs here, as at <reference osisRef="Dan.7.2">Da 7:2</reference>, and again at <reference osisRef="Dan.7.13">Da 7:13</reference>, thus dividing the whole vision into three parts--</hi>the first embracing the three kingdoms, the second the fourth and its overthrow, the third Messiah's kingdom. The first three together take up a few centuries; the fourth, thousands of years. The whole lower half of the image in the second chapter is given to it. And whereas the other kingdoms consist of only one material, this consists of two, iron and clay (on which much stress is laid, <reference osisRef="Dan.2.41-Dan.2.43">Da 2:41-43</reference>); the "iron teeth" here allude to one material in the fourth kingdom of the image.

<hi type="bold">ten horns--</hi>It is with the crisis, rather than the course, of the fourth kingdom that this seventh chapter is mainly concerned. The ten kings (<reference osisRef="Dan.7.24">Da 7:24</reference>, the "horns" representing power), that is, kingdoms, into which Rome was divided on its incorporation with the Germanic and Slavonic tribes, and again at the Reformation, are thought by many to be here intended. But the variation of the list of the ten, and their ignoring the eastern half of the empire altogether, and the existence of the Papacy before the breaking up of even the Western empire, instead of being the "little horn" springing up after the other ten, are against this view. The Western Roman empire continued till A.D. 731, and the Eastern, till A.D. 1453. The ten kingdoms, therefore, prefigured by the ten "toes" (<reference osisRef="Dan.2.41">Da 2:41</reference>; compare <reference osisRef="Rev.13.1">Re 13:1</reference>; <reference osisRef="Rev.17.12">17:12</reference>), are the ten kingdoms into which Rome shall be found finally divided when Antichrist shall appear [Tregelles]. These, probably, are prefigured by the number ten being the prevalent one at the chief turning points of Roman history.

7. As Daniel lived under the kingdom of the first beast, and therefore needed not to describe it, and as the second and third are described fully in the second part of the book, the chief emphasis falls on the fourth. Also prophecy most dwells on the end, which is the consummation of the preceding series of events. It is in the fourth that the world power manifests fully its God-opposing nature. Whereas the three former kingdoms were designated respectively, as a lion, bear, and leopard, no particular beast is specified as the image of the fourth; for Rome is so terrible as to be not describable by any one, but combines in itself all that we can imagine inexpressibly fierce in all beasts. Hence thrice (Da 7:7, 19, 23) it is repeated, that the fourth was "diverse from all" the others. The formula of introduction, "I saw in the night visions," occurs here, as at Da 7:2, and again at Da 7:13, thus dividing the whole vision into three parts-- the first embracing the three kingdoms, the second the fourth and its overthrow, the third Messiah's kingdom. The first three together take up a few centuries; the fourth, thousands of years. The whole lower half of the image in the second chapter is given to it. And whereas the other kingdoms consist of only one material, this consists of two, iron and clay (on which much stress is laid, Da 2:41-43); the "iron teeth" here allude to one material in the fourth kingdom of the image. ten horns-- It is with the crisis, rather than the course, of the fourth kingdom that this seventh chapter is mainly concerned. The ten kings (Da 7:24, the "horns" representing power), that is, kingdoms, into which Rome was divided on its incorporation with the Germanic and Slavonic tribes, and again at the Reformation, are thought by many to be here intended. But the variation of the list of the ten, and their ignoring the eastern half of the empire altogether, and the existence of the Papacy before the breaking up of even the Western empire, instead of being the "little horn" springing up after the other ten, are against this view. The Western Roman empire continued till A.D. 731, and the Eastern, till A.D. 1453. The ten kingdoms, therefore, prefigured by the ten "toes" (Da 2:41; compare Re 13:1; 17:12), are the ten kingdoms into which Rome shall be found finally divided when Antichrist shall appear [Tregelles]. These, probably, are prefigured by the number ten being the prevalent one at the chief turning points of Roman history.


<hi type="bold">8. little horn--</hi>little at first, but afterwards waxing greater than all others. He must be sought "among them," namely, the ten horns. The Roman empire did not represent itself as a continuation of Alexander's; but the Germanic empire calls itself "the holy Roman empire." Napoleon's attempted universal monarchy was avowedly Roman: his son was called king of Rome. The czar (Cæsar) also professes to represent the eastern half of the Roman empire. The Roman civilization, church, language, and law are the chief elements in Germanic civilization. But the Romanic element seeks universal empire, while the Germanic seeks individualization. Hence the universal monarchies attempted by the Papacy, Charlemagne, Charles V, and Napoleon have failed, the iron not amalgamating with the clay. In the king symbolized by "the little horn," the God-opposing, haughty spirit of the world, represented by the fourth monarchy, finds its intensest development. "The man of sin," "the son of perdition" (<reference osisRef="2Thess.2.3">2Th 2:3</reference>). Antichrist (<reference osisRef="1John.2.18">1Jo 2:18</reference>, 22; <reference osisRef="2Cor.4.3">4:3</reference>). It is the complete evolution of the evil principle introduced by the fall.

<hi type="bold">three of the first horns plucked up--</hi>the exarchate of Ravenna, the kingdom of the Lombards and the state of Rome, which constituted the Pope's dominions at the first; obtained by Pope Zachary and Stephen II in return for acknowledging the usurper Pepin lawful king of France [Newton]. See Tregelles' objections, <reference osisRef="Dan.7.7">Da 7:7</reference>, "ten horns," Note. The "little horn," in his view, is to be Antichrist rising three and a half years before Christ's second advent, having first overthrown three of the ten contemporaneous kingdoms, into which the fourth monarchy, under which we live, shall be finally divided. Popery seems to be a fulfilment of the prophecy in many particulars, the Pope claiming to be God on earth and above all earthly dominions; but the spirit of Antichrist prefigured by Popery will probably culminate in ONE individual, to be destroyed by Christ's coming; He will be the product of the political world powers, whereas Popery which prepares His way, is a Church become worldly.

<hi type="bold">eyes of man--</hi>Eyes express intelligence (<reference osisRef="Ezek.1.18">Eze 1:18</reference>); so (<reference osisRef="Gen.3.5">Ge 3:5</reference>) the serpent's promise was, man's "eyes should be opened," if he would but rebel against God. Antichrist shall consummate the self-apotheosis, begun at the fall, high intellectual culture, independent of God. The metals representing Babylon and Medo-Persia, gold and silver, are more precious than brass and iron, representing Greece and Rome; but the latter metals are more useful to civilization (<reference osisRef="Gen.4.22">Ge 4:22</reference>). The clay, representing the Germanic element, is the most plastic material. Thus there is a progress in culture; but this is not a progress necessarily in man's truest dignity, namely, union and likeness to God. Nay, it has led him farther from God, to self-reliance and world-love. The beginnings of civilization were among the children of Cain (<reference osisRef="Gen.4.17-Gen.4.24">Ge 4:17-24</reference>; <reference osisRef="Luke.16.8">Lu 16:8</reference>). Antiochus Epiphanes, the first Antichrist, came from civilized Greece, and loved art. As Hellenic civilization produced the first, so modern civilization under the fourth monarchy will produce the last Antichrist. The "mouth" and "eyes" are those of a man, while the symbol is otherwise brutish, that is, it will assume man's true dignity, namely, wear the guise of the kingdom of God (which comes as the "Son of man" from above), while it is really bestial, namely, severed from God. Antichrist promises the same things as Christ, but in an opposite way: a caricature of Christ, offering a regenerated world without the cross. Babylon and Persia in their religion had more reverence for things divine than Greece and Rome in the imperial stages of their history. Nebuchadnezzar's human heart, given him (<reference osisRef="Dan.4.16">Da 4:16</reference>) on his repentance, contrasts with the human eyes of Antichrist, the pseudo son of man, namely, intellectual culture, while heart and mouth blaspheme God. The deterioration politically corresponds: the first kingdom, an organic unity; the second, divided into Median and Persian; the third branches off into four; the fourth, into ten. The two eastern kingdoms are marked by nobler metals; the two western, by baser; individualization and division appear in the latter, and it is they which produce the two Antichrists.

8. little horn-- little at first, but afterwards waxing greater than all others. He must be sought "among them," namely, the ten horns. The Roman empire did not represent itself as a continuation of Alexander's; but the Germanic empire calls itself "the holy Roman empire." Napoleon's attempted universal monarchy was avowedly Roman: his son was called king of Rome. The czar (Cæsar) also professes to represent the eastern half of the Roman empire. The Roman civilization, church, language, and law are the chief elements in Germanic civilization. But the Romanic element seeks universal empire, while the Germanic seeks individualization. Hence the universal monarchies attempted by the Papacy, Charlemagne, Charles V, and Napoleon have failed, the iron not amalgamating with the clay. In the king symbolized by "the little horn," the God-opposing, haughty spirit of the world, represented by the fourth monarchy, finds its intensest development. "The man of sin," "the son of perdition" (2Th 2:3). Antichrist (1Jo 2:18, 22; 4:3). It is the complete evolution of the evil principle introduced by the fall. three of the first horns plucked up-- the exarchate of Ravenna, the kingdom of the Lombards and the state of Rome, which constituted the Pope's dominions at the first; obtained by Pope Zachary and Stephen II in return for acknowledging the usurper Pepin lawful king of France [Newton]. See Tregelles' objections, Da 7:7, "ten horns," Note. The "little horn," in his view, is to be Antichrist rising three and a half years before Christ's second advent, having first overthrown three of the ten contemporaneous kingdoms, into which the fourth monarchy, under which we live, shall be finally divided. Popery seems to be a fulfilment of the prophecy in many particulars, the Pope claiming to be God on earth and above all earthly dominions; but the spirit of Antichrist prefigured by Popery will probably culminate in ONE individual, to be destroyed by Christ's coming; He will be the product of the political world powers, whereas Popery which prepares His way, is a Church become worldly. eyes of man-- Eyes express intelligence (Eze 1:18); so (Ge 3:5) the serpent's promise was, man's "eyes should be opened," if he would but rebel against God. Antichrist shall consummate the self-apotheosis, begun at the fall, high intellectual culture, independent of God. The metals representing Babylon and Medo-Persia, gold and silver, are more precious than brass and iron, representing Greece and Rome; but the latter metals are more useful to civilization (Ge 4:22). The clay, representing the Germanic element, is the most plastic material. Thus there is a progress in culture; but this is not a progress necessarily in man's truest dignity, namely, union and likeness to God. Nay, it has led him farther from God, to self-reliance and world-love. The beginnings of civilization were among the children of Cain (Ge 4:17-24; Lu 16:8). Antiochus Epiphanes, the first Antichrist, came from civilized Greece, and loved art. As Hellenic civilization produced the first, so modern civilization under the fourth monarchy will produce the last Antichrist. The "mouth" and "eyes" are those of a man, while the symbol is otherwise brutish, that is, it will assume man's true dignity, namely, wear the guise of the kingdom of God (which comes as the "Son of man" from above), while it is really bestial, namely, severed from God. Antichrist promises the same things as Christ, but in an opposite way: a caricature of Christ, offering a regenerated world without the cross. Babylon and Persia in their religion had more reverence for things divine than Greece and Rome in the imperial stages of their history. Nebuchadnezzar's human heart, given him (Da 4:16) on his repentance, contrasts with the human eyes of Antichrist, the pseudo son of man, namely, intellectual culture, while heart and mouth blaspheme God. The deterioration politically corresponds: the first kingdom, an organic unity; the second, divided into Median and Persian; the third branches off into four; the fourth, into ten. The two eastern kingdoms are marked by nobler metals; the two western, by baser; individualization and division appear in the latter, and it is they which produce the two Antichrists.


<hi type="bold">9. I beheld till--</hi>I continued looking till.

<hi type="bold">thrones ... cast down--</hi>rather, "thrones were placed" [Vulgate and Luther], namely, for the saints and elect angels to whom "judgment is given" (<reference osisRef="Dan.7.22">Da 7:22</reference>), as assessors with the Judge. Compare <reference osisRef="Dan.7.10">Da 7:10</reference>, "thousand thousands ministered unto Him" (<reference osisRef="Matt.19.28">Mt 19:28</reference>; <reference osisRef="Luke.22.30">Lu 22:30</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Cor.6.2">1Co 6:2</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Cor.6.3">3</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Tim.5.21">1Ti 5:21</reference>; <reference osisRef="Rev.2.26">Re 2:26</reference>; <reference osisRef="2Cor.4.4">4:4</reference>). In English Version the thrones cast down are those of the previously mentioned kings who give place to Messiah.

<hi type="bold">Ancient of days--</hi>"The everlasting Father" (<reference osisRef="Isa.9.6">Is 9:6</reference>). He is the Judge here, as THE Son does not judge in His own cause, and it is His cause which is the one at issue with Antichrist.

<hi type="bold">sit--</hi>the attitude of a judge about to pass sentence.

<hi type="bold">white--</hi>The judicial purity of the Judge, and of all things round Him, is hereby expressed (<reference osisRef="Rev.1.14">Re 1:14</reference>).

<hi type="bold">wheels--</hi>as Oriental thrones move on wheels. Like the rapid flame, God's judgments are most swift in falling where He wills them (<reference osisRef="Ezek.1.15">Eze 1:15</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Cor.1.16">16</reference>). The judgment here is not the last judgment, for then there will be no beast, and heaven and earth shall have passed away; but it is that on Antichrist (the last development of the fourth kingdom), typical of the last judgment: Christ coming to substitute the millennial kingdom of glory for that of the cross (<reference osisRef="Rev.17.12-Rev.14.19">Re 17:12-14; 19</reference>:15-21; <reference osisRef="Rev.11.15">11:15</reference>).

9. I beheld till-- I continued looking till. thrones... cast down-- rather, "thrones were placed" [Vulgate and Luther], namely, for the saints and elect angels to whom "judgment is given" (Da 7:22), as assessors with the Judge. Compare Da 7:10, "thousand thousands ministered unto Him" (Mt 19:28; Lu 22:30; 1Co 6:2, 3; 1Ti 5:21; Re 2:26; 4:4). In English Version the thrones cast down are those of the previously mentioned kings who give place to Messiah. Ancient of days-- "The everlasting Father" (Is 9:6). He is the Judge here, as THE Son does not judge in His own cause, and it is His cause which is the one at issue with Antichrist. sit-- the attitude of a judge about to pass sentence. white-- The judicial purity of the Judge, and of all things round Him, is hereby expressed (Re 1:14). wheels-- as Oriental thrones move on wheels. Like the rapid flame, God's judgments are most swift in falling where He wills them (Eze 1:15, 16). The judgment here is not the last judgment, for then there will be no beast, and heaven and earth shall have passed away; but it is that on Antichrist (the last development of the fourth kingdom), typical of the last judgment: Christ coming to substitute the millennial kingdom of glory for that of the cross (Re 17:12-14; 19:15-21; 11:15).


<hi type="bold">10. thousand ... ministered unto him--</hi>so at the giving of the law (<reference osisRef="Deut.33.2">De 33:2</reference>; <reference osisRef="Ps.68.17">Psa 68:17</reference>; <reference osisRef="Heb.12.22">He 12:22</reference>; Jude 14).

<hi type="bold">ten ... thousand before him--</hi>image from the Sanhedrim, in which the father of the consistory sat with his assessors on each side, in the form of a semicircle, and the people standing before him.

<hi type="bold">judgment was set--</hi>The judges sat (<reference osisRef="Rev.20.4">Re 20:4</reference>).

<hi type="bold">books ... opened--</hi>(<reference osisRef="Rev.20.12">Re 20:12</reference>). Forensic image; all the documents of the cause at issue, connected with the condemnation of Antichrist and his kingdom, and the setting up of Messiah's kingdom. Judgment must pass on the world as being under the curse, before the glory comes; but Antichrist offers glory without the cross, a renewed world without the world being judged.

10. thousand... ministered unto him-- so at the giving of the law (De 33:2; Psa 68:17; He 12:22; Jude 14). ten... thousand before him-- image from the Sanhedrim, in which the father of the consistory sat with his assessors on each side, in the form of a semicircle, and the people standing before him. judgment was set-- The judges sat (Re 20:4). books... opened-- (Re 20:12). Forensic image; all the documents of the cause at issue, connected with the condemnation of Antichrist and his kingdom, and the setting up of Messiah's kingdom. Judgment must pass on the world as being under the curse, before the glory comes; but Antichrist offers glory without the cross, a renewed world without the world being judged.


11. Here is set forth the execution on earth of the judgment pronounced in the unseen heavenly court of judicature (<reference osisRef="Dan.7.9">Da 7:9</reference>, <reference osisRef="Dan.7.10">10</reference>).

<hi type="bold">body ... given to ... flame--</hi>(<reference osisRef="Rev.19.20">Re 19:20</reference>).

11. Here is set forth the execution on earth of the judgment pronounced in the unseen heavenly court of judicature (Da 7:9, 10). body... given to... flame-- (Re 19:20).