Daniel 2:19

Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven.

Daniel 2:19 (KJV)

Context

King Nebuchadnezzar demanded that his wise men both tell him his forgotten dream and interpret it. When they could not, he decreed that all the wise men of Babylon, including Daniel and his companions, should be killed. Daniel asked the king for time, then urged his friends to join him in asking the God of heaven for mercy concerning this mystery (Daniel 2:18).

Meaning

In Daniel 2:19, God answered their prayer by revealing the secret to Daniel in a night vision. The verse emphasizes that the revelation came from God, not from Daniel’s own wisdom. Daniel immediately responded by blessing the God of heaven, turning his prayer into praise before he even confirmed the dream with the king. This shows his full assurance that God had answered.

Biblical connections

Daniel’s blessing continues in Daniel 2:20-23, where he praises God for wisdom and might, for changing times and seasons, for removing and setting up kings, and for revealing deep and secret things. The title “God of heaven” appears throughout this chapter, identifying the true God who rules over all earthly powers and who alone can reveal hidden things.

Application

Daniel’s example teaches us to depend on God for knowledge and insight, and to use the wisdom we receive for the benefit of others. As Daniel later explains, the secret was not revealed for his own sake, but so that the interpretation could be made known to the king. This humility reminds us that all wisdom comes from God and should be used to fulfill His purposes, not for personal ambition.

Reflection

When God answers our prayers, our first response should be to bless Him. Daniel did not wait to see the outcome before praising God; he trusted that God had heard and answered. This pattern of prayer, divine revelation, and grateful worship is a model for our own lives.