Daniel 5:19 (KJV)

What does Daniel 5:19 mean?

Daniel 5:19 describes how King Nebuchadnezzar was given such great power and majesty that all peoples, nations, and languages feared him, and he had absolute authority to decide who would live or die, who would be honored, and who would be humbled. The verse emphasizes the king’s total control and the awe he inspired across his vast empire.

In this verse, Daniel is speaking to King Belshazzar during the feast, reminding him of Nebuchadnezzar’s former greatness and the source of his authority. Daniel is making it clear that Nebuchadnezzar’s power came from God, and that everyone under his rule recognized his unmatched authority. This sets the stage for Daniel’s warning to Belshazzar about pride and the consequences of forgetting where true power comes from.

The Aramaic behind Daniel 5:19

• "majesty" (רְבוּ / revu): This word points to greatness or splendor, highlighting that Nebuchadnezzar’s rule was not just powerful but also impressive and commanding respect.
• "trembled" (הֲוָה / hava, זֵעֵא / zea): The use of these words together shows both fear and trembling, stressing the intensity of the reaction people had to Nebuchadnezzar’s authority.
• "would" (הֲוָה / hava, צְבָא / tseva): This phrase is repeated to show the king’s will was absolute—whatever he wanted to happen, happened, whether it was life, death, promotion, or demotion.
• "set up" (הֲוָה / hava, רוּם / rum) and "put down" (הֲוָה / hava, שְׁפַל / shefal): These words show Nebuchadnezzar’s power to elevate or humble anyone, underlining his total control over people’s status and fate.

Why Daniel 5:19 matters

• Daniel 5:19 clarifies that Nebuchadnezzar’s power was not self-made but given, which is crucial for understanding the lesson Daniel is about to teach Belshazzar about humility and accountability before God.
• The verse helps the reader see the difference between Nebuchadnezzar’s response to God’s authority and Belshazzar’s prideful behavior, setting up the contrast that runs through the chapter.
• By emphasizing the king’s authority over all peoples and nations, Daniel 5:19 highlights the vast reach of the Babylonian empire and the seriousness of misusing such power.