Daniel carefully distinguished the dream ( Daniel 2:31-35) from its interpretation ( Daniel 2:36-45) for the sake of clarity. His reference to "we" telling the interpretation is probably an editorial plural. This form of speech allowed Daniel to present himself humbly to the king and at the same time remind him that God had given the dream and its interpretation (cf. 1 Corinthians 2:6). [source][source][source]
Context Summary
Daniel 2:36-49 - God's Kingdom Triumphant
Our Lord probably refers to these five empires when He speaks of "the times of the Gentiles." The empire of Babylon was followed by that of Medo-Persia under Cyrus; that by Greece under Alexander the Great; and that in turn by Rome led by the Caesars. Since the dissolution of the Roman Empire, the vast dominions of the East and the West have fallen, generally speaking, into some ten main divisions. There is, therefore, now nothing between us and the final setting up of the kingdom that is not made by human hands and shall never be destroyed. Note the striking anticipation of the outcome of Gentile dominion, in the prostration of supreme human power at the feet of a Jew. Evidently Daniel refused the king's homage, because we are told that Nebuchadnezzar "answered" him. Those who have shared our anxieties and prayers must not be forgotten in our hour of triumph, Daniel 2:49. The heart of man may not be able to recall its forgotten dreams of innocence and truth, but it will recognize them when presented by the servant of God. [source]
Chapter Summary: Daniel 2
1Nebuchadnezzar, forgetting his dream, 5requires it of the Chaldeans, by promises and threats 10They acknowledging their inability are judged to die 14Daniel obtaining some respite finds the dream 19He blesses God 24He staying the decree is brought to the king 31The dream 36The interpretation 46Daniel's advancement
What do the individual words in Daniel 2:36 mean?
This [is]dream theand the interpretation of itwe will tellbeforeking the