What does Daniel 4:1 Mean?

Study Notes

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Nebuchadnezzar, first of the Gentile world-kings in whom the times of the Gentiles Luke 21:24 ; Revelation 16:14 began, perfectly comprehended the universality of the sway committed to him Daniel 2:37 ; Daniel 2:38 as also did Cyrus Ezra 1:2 . That they did not actually subject the known earth to their sway is true, but they might have done so. The earth lay in their power.

Verse Meaning

The fact that Nebuchadnezzar addressed what follows to everyone living on the earth, even though he did not rule over the entire earth, should not be a problem. This was the universal language that he customarily used (cf. Daniel 3:29). He did, in fact, rule over a very large portion of the ancient world. Likewise the benediction, "May your peace abound," seems to be a typical salutation formula (cf. Daniel 6:25). [source][source]

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Context Summary

Nebuchadnezzar was in the zenith of his fame and power. His wars were over; his prosperity was assured. But he attributed all to his own wisdom and prowess. There was no thought of God, who had raised him up and given him everything. He must be humbled, if his soul was to be saved; and the whole living world must know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men and gives it to whomsoever He pleases, Daniel 4:17. How gladly worldly men turn in hours of crisis to religious men, who draw upon unseen resources, and bear themselves with calm and unruffled peace, Daniel 4:9. The greatness of the King is set forth under the figure of a mighty tree, filling the earth and sheltering the nations. There was only one Being who came down, combining in Himself watchfulness and holiness. In Daniel 4:17 we learn that no destiny is decided apart from the careful sifting of the celestial council-chamber. How august is this conception of the matured judgment of heaven. Where should we stand apart from the pleading of the great High Priest? [source]

Chapter Summary: Daniel 4

¹  Nebuchadnezzar confesses God's kingdom,
⁴  makes relation of his dreams, which the magicians could not interpret
⁸  Daniel hears the dream
¹⁹  He interprets it
²⁸  The dream fulfilled