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Daniel 2:40

And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron: forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth all things: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in pieces and bruise.

Daniel 2:40 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse you are referring to comes from the Book of Daniel in the Old Testament. In this verse, it describes a vision that the prophet Daniel had, where he saw a fourth kingdom that was strong as iron. The symbolism of iron in this context represents strength and power. Iron is known for its ability to break and subdue all things, illustrating the might and dominance of this kingdom. Just as iron can break and bruise all in its path, so too shall this fourth kingdom conquer and assert its authority over others. This powerful imagery serves to emphasize the immense strength and power that this kingdom possesses, highlighting its ability to crush any opposition and establish itself as a force to be reckoned with. Overall, this verse underscores the formidable nature of the fourth kingdom and sets the stage for the unfolding of future events in the prophetic vision.

Theological Overview

Some theologians view the mention of iron in this verse from the book of Daniel as symbolizing strength and power. Iron is known for its hardness and ability to break and subdue all things, which could be seen as representing the might of the fourth kingdom that will arise. The imagery of iron breaking in pieces and bruising evokes a sense of dominance and destruction. This interpretation suggests that the fourth kingdom will be a formidable force that will conquer and overpower others. Additionally, the mention of iron can also be seen as foreshadowing the durability and lasting impact of this kingdom. Overall, this verse is often interpreted as indicating a time of great power and authority for the fourth kingdom, characterized by its strength and ability to crush all opposition.

Daniel 2:40 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron, forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth all things; and as iron that crusheth all these, shall it break in pieces and crush.

World English Bible

The fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron, because iron breaks in pieces and subdues all things; and as iron that crushes all these, shall it break in pieces and crush.

Douay-Rheims

And the fourth kingdom shall be as iron. As iron breaketh into pieces, and subdueth all things, so shall that break, and destroy all these.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And the fourth kingdome shall be strong as yron: for as yron breaketh in pieces, and subdueth all things, and as yron bruiseth all these things, so shall it breake in pieces, and bruise all.