Daniel 2:36 (KJV)

What does Daniel 2:36 mean?

Daniel 2:36 is Daniel’s announcement to King Nebuchadnezzar that he is about to explain the meaning of the king’s dream. Daniel states plainly that he and his companions will give the interpretation of the dream in the king’s presence.

Daniel is speaking directly to Nebuchadnezzar after recounting the dream the king had. The setting is the royal court, where Daniel has just described the dream that troubled the king. Now, Daniel shifts from telling the dream itself to revealing its significance, making it clear that the explanation is about to begin.

The Aramaic behind Daniel 2:36

• "This" (דְּנָה, denāh): This word points specifically to the dream Daniel has just described, showing he is referring to something definite and known to the audience.
• "Interpretation" (פְּשַׁר, peshar): This Aramaic word means an explanation or the act of making something clear, emphasizing that Daniel is not just retelling the dream but will reveal its deeper meaning.
• "Before" (קֳדָם, qodam): This word means "in front of" or "in the presence of," highlighting that Daniel is addressing the king directly and publicly, not in secret.

Why Daniel 2:36 matters

• Daniel 2:36 marks the turning point from recounting the dream to explaining its meaning, signaling a shift in the narrative’s focus.
• The verse shows Daniel’s confidence and clarity, as he openly declares that he will interpret the dream for the king, which builds trust in his role as a true interpreter.
• This moment sets up the rest of the chapter, where the meaning of the dream’s symbols will be revealed, shaping the message of the entire story.