I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my fathers, who hast given me wisdom and might, and hast made known unto me now what we desired of thee: for thou hast now made known unto us the king's matter.
DANIEL 2:23KJVWhat does Daniel 2:23 mean?
Daniel 2:23 is Daniel’s prayer of thanks to God after God reveals the meaning of King Nebuchadnezzar’s troubling dream to him. Daniel praises God for giving him wisdom and strength, and for answering his request by making known the secret of the king’s dream.
Daniel is speaking directly to God, calling Him the “God of my fathers,” which shows Daniel’s connection to his ancestors’ faith. This verse comes right after Daniel receives a vision in the night, solving the mystery that had threatened the lives of Daniel and his friends. Daniel’s words highlight his gratitude and recognition that true wisdom and power come from God alone.
The Aramaic behind Daniel 2:23
- “thank” (יְדָה, yedah): This word means to give thanks or acknowledge. Daniel is not just expressing gratitude but also publicly recognizing God’s action.
- “praise” (שְׁבַח, shevach): This word carries the sense of giving honor or acclaim. Daniel is lifting up God’s reputation, not just his own feelings.
- “wisdom” (חָכְמָה, chokhmah): This word refers to insight or understanding, which is what Daniel needed to interpret the king’s dream.
- “might” (גְּבוּרָה, gevurah): This word means strength or power, emphasizing that God not only gives knowledge but also the ability to act.
Why Daniel 2:23 matters
- Daniel 2:23 shows that Daniel credits God, not himself, for the insight and ability to interpret the king’s dream, correcting any idea that Daniel’s wisdom is his own achievement.
- The verse connects Daniel’s faith to the faith of his ancestors, showing continuity in trusting God across generations.
- Daniel’s prayer sets an example of humility and gratitude before God, especially in moments of crisis or when receiving answers to prayer.