Daniel 3:2
Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the governors, and the captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.
Daniel 3:2 · King James Version
Meaning
During the time of King Nebuchadnezzar, he ordered the gathering of all the prominent leaders, officials, and rulers from the provinces under his rule to attend the dedication of a large golden image that he had erected. This event was of great significance as it symbolized the power and authority of the king, who expected everyone to worship the image as a display of loyalty and submission to his rule. The inclusion of various officials such as princes, governors, judges, treasurers, counsellors, sheriffs, and rulers highlighted the importance of unity and obedience among the government officials and leaders under Nebuchadnezzar's reign. It also emphasized the king's desire for absolute control and reverence from all those under his rule. The dedication of the image was a momentous occasion that showcased the king's power and influence over his kingdom.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, gathers together various officials and leaders from his kingdom to participate in the dedication of an image that he had set up. This act of gathering all these high-ranking officials emphasizes the importance and significance of the event in the eyes of the king. The word "dedication" in this context can be interpreted as a consecration or setting apart of the image for a specific purpose or worship. The inclusion of specific titles like princes, governors, judges, and treasurers provides insight into the organizational structure of Babylonian society at that time. The word "sheriffs" in this verse can refer to high-ranking officers or administrators in charge of overseeing regions within the kingdom. This verse highlights the power and authority of Nebuchadnezzar as the king, as he commands the presence of all these officials to partake in the dedication of the image, showcasing his control and influence over his realm.
Daniel 3:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the satraps, the deputies, and the governors, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.
World English Bible
Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the satraps, the deputies, and the governors, the judges, the treasurers, the counselors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.
Douay-Rheims
Then Nabuchodonosor, the king, sent to call together the nobles, the magistrates, and the judges, the captains, the rulers, and governors, and all the chief men of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the statue which king Nabuchodonosor had set up.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then Nebuchad-nezzar ye King sent foorth to gather together the nobles, the princes and the dukes, the iudges, the receiuers, the counsellers, the officers, and all the gouernours of the prouinces, that they should come to the dedication of the image, which Nebuchad-nezzar the King had set vp.