Intro to the book of Daniel
October 8, 2008To date we have studied through one of the Pauline letters (Galatians) and an Old Testament book of wisdom (Ecclesiastes). For our next book we will delve into the world of the prophets with the book of Daniel.
The book bears the title Daniel both because he is the main character in the book and because it was written by him.
What we know of Daniel is that he was known for his righteousness (Ezekiel 14:14,20) and his wisdom (Ezekiel 28:3). We also learn right away in the book that he was of noble birth (Daniel 1:3,6). He was physically attractive and mentally sharp (Daniel 1:4). He was taken captive as a young man by Nebuchadnezzar, the Babylonian king.
The book of Daniel is categorized as Apocalyptic literature. Meaning that 1) an individuals visions are recorded 2) many signs and symbols are used 3) revelation is given as to God’s future plans. 4) A prose style of writing was employed.
Other Apocalyptic literature in the Bible include Revelation, Ezekiel and Zechariah.
To note throughout the book is Daniel’s unwavering commitment to God. His trust in God even when all things seem to be going against him, and the prophetic words about God’s ultimate plan for humanity.
[...] (See the Intro to Daniel here) 13 So Daniel was brought in before the king. The king asked him, “Are you Daniel, one of the exiles brought from Judah by my predecessor, King Nebuchadnezzar? 14 I have heard that you have the spirit of the gods within you and that you are filled with insight, understanding, and wisdom. 15 My wise men and enchanters have tried to read the words on the wall and tell me their meaning, but they cannot do it. 16 I am told that you can give interpretations and solve difficult problems. If you can read these words and tell me their meaning, you will be clothed in purple robes of royal honor, and you will have a gold chain placed around your neck. You will become the third highest ruler in the kingdom.” 17 Daniel answered the king, “Keep your gifts or give them to someone else, but I will tell you what the writing means. 18 Your Majesty, the Most High God gave sovereignty, majesty, glory, and honor to your predecessor, Nebuchadnezzar. 19 He made him so great that people of all races and nations and languages trembled before him in fear. He killed those he wanted to kill and spared those he wanted to spare. He honored those he wanted to honor and disgraced those he wanted to disgrace. 20 But when his heart and mind were puffed up with arrogance, he was brought down from his royal throne and stripped of his glory. 21 He was driven from human society. He was given the mind of a wild animal, and he lived among the wild donkeys. He ate grass like a cow, and he was drenched with the dew of heaven, until he learned that the Most High God rules over the kingdoms of the world and appoints anyone he desires to rule over them. [...]