Daniel 4:12
The leaves thereof were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was meat for all: the beasts of the field had shadow under it, and the fowls of the heaven dwelt in the boughs thereof, and all flesh was fed of it.
Daniel 4:12 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse describes a tree that is abundant in both beauty and fruitfulness. The imagery of the leaves being fair and the fruit being plentiful paints a picture of a tree that is not only visually appealing but also productive. The tree provides sustenance for all creatures, as indicated by the mention of meat for all. The fact that the beasts of the field find shade under it and the birds of the air make their home in its branches further emphasizes the tree's significance as a provider of food and shelter for all living beings. The mention of 'all flesh was fed of it' highlights the tree's role in sustaining life and meeting the needs of all creatures. This verse can be seen as a metaphor for the abundance and generosity of nature, as well as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things.
Theological Overview
The verse you have just read describes a tree with beautiful leaves and abundant fruit that provide sustenance for all creatures. This imagery can be interpreted theologically as representing God’s provision and abundance for all living beings. The tree symbolizes the generosity and care of God towards his creation, ensuring that all creatures are fed and sheltered. The phrase “meat for all†highlights the idea that God’s provision is plentiful and meant to sustain all living things. The image of the beasts finding shade under the tree and the birds nesting in its branches further emphasizes the idea of God’s creation flourishing under His care. This verse serves as a reminder of God’s abundant provision and care for all creatures, reflecting His love and compassion for his creation.
Daniel 4:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
The leaves thereof were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was food for all: the beasts of the field had shadow under it, and the birds of the heavens dwelt in the branches thereof, and all flesh was fed from it.
World English Bible
The leaves of it were beautiful, and its fruit much, and in it was food for all: the animals of the field had shadow under it, and the birds of the sky lived in its branches, and all flesh was fed from it.
Douay-Rheims
Nevertheless, leave the stump of its roots in the earth, and let it be tied with a band of iron and of brass, among the grass, that is without, and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let its portion be with the wild beasts in the grass of the earth.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Neuerthelesse leaue the stumpe of his rootes in the earth, and with a band of yron and brasse binde it among the grasse of the fielde, and let it be wet with the dewe of heauen, and let his portion be with the beastes among the grasse of the fielde.