Daniel 4:24
This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the most High, which is come upon my lord the king:
Daniel 4:24 · King James Version
Meaning
When the prophet Daniel uttered these words to King Belshazzar, he was providing an interpretation of the mysterious writing on the wall that had appeared during a banquet in the king's palace. The writing was a message from God, foretelling the impending fall of the Babylonian Empire and the rise of the Persian Empire. By saying, "This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the most High, which is come upon my lord the king", Daniel was indicating that the message was not just a warning, but a divine decree that could not be avoided. The verse serves as a reminder of the power and sovereignty of God, who holds ultimate authority over the affairs of nations and individuals. Through Daniel's interpretation, King Belshazzar was confronted with the reality of his impending downfall, illustrating the consequences of arrogance and disobedience to God's will. This verse reminds readers of the importance of humility and obedience to God's commands, as well as the inevitability of divine judgment for those who defy His will.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the most High, which is come upon my lord the king," it is important to understand the context in which it is spoken. In this verse, the prophet Daniel is relaying God's message and decree to King Belshazzar of Babylon. The use of the phrase "the most High" emphasizes the supreme authority and sovereignty of God over all earthly kings and kingdoms. In this interpretation, Daniel is highlighting the divine judgment that is about to befall the king and his kingdom due to their arrogance and lack of reverence for God. This verse serves as a reminder of God's ultimate power and control over the affairs of humanity, and the consequences that can come from defying His will. By studying the original Hebrew and Aramaic words used in this passage, we can gain further insight into the significance of God's decree and the importance of heeding His messages.
Daniel 4:24 in other translations
American Standard Version
this is the interpretation, O king, and it is the decree of the Most High, which is come upon my lord the king:
World English Bible
this is the interpretation, O king, and it is the decree of the Most High, which has come on my lord the king:
Douay-Rheims
Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable to thee, and redeem thou thy sins with alms, and thy iniquities with works of mercy to the poor: perhaps he will forgive thy offences.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Wherefore, O King, let my counsell be acceptable vnto thee, and breake off thy sinnes by righteousnes, and thine iniquities by mercy toward the poore: lo, let there be an healing of thine errour.