Daniel 4:14
He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cut off his branches, shake off his leaves, and scatter his fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from his branches:
Daniel 4:14 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the speaker is giving a command to cut down a tree and remove all its branches, leaves, and fruit. The imagery of cutting down the tree symbolizes destruction and the end of something important or significant. The removal of the branches, leaves, and fruit represents a complete uprooting and eradication of not only the tree itself but also everything it has produced. The instruction to let the beasts and fowls get away from under the tree and its branches implies a displacement or dispersal of living creatures that may have sought shelter or sustenance from the tree. This verse can be interpreted as a metaphor for upheaval, judgment, or punishment, where the tree represents a powerful entity or individual who is being brought down and stripped of all influence and support. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of pride, arrogance, or wrongdoing, as well as the inevitability of facing the repercussions of one's actions.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, it is important to consider the symbolism behind the tree that is being hewn down. In many biblical passages, trees are often used as representations of people or nations. In this case, the tree could be seen as representing a ruler or leader who has become prideful and corrupt. By commanding for the tree to be cut down, it could be interpreted as a warning from God to humble oneself and turn away from sinful behaviors. The imagery of shaking off leaves and scattering fruit can further symbolize the removal of outward appearances of righteousness and the dispersal of any false prosperity or success. Finally, the instruction to let the beasts and fowls get away from under the tree could signify the need for all followers or supporters of this corrupt leader to abandon their allegiance for their own safety and well-being. Overall, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of pride and corruption.
Daniel 4:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cut off its branches, shake off its leaves, and scatter its fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from its branches.
World English Bible
He cried aloud, and said thus, Cut down the tree, and cut off its branches, shake off its leaves, and scatter its fruit: let the animals get away from under it, and the fowls from its branches.
Douay-Rheims
This is the decree by the sentence of the watchers, and the word and demand of the holy ones: till the living know, that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men: and he will give it to whomsoever it shall please him, and he will appoint the basest man over it.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The sentence is according to the decree of the watchmen, and according to the word of the holy ones: the demaunde was answered, to the intent that liuing men may knowe, that the most High hath power ouer the kingdome of men, and giueth it to whomsoeuer he will, and appointeth ouer it the most abiect among men.