Daniel 2:20

“But Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his.”

1. Context: Daniel 2:20 is part of a larger narrative found in the book of Daniel. In this particular chapter, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon has a troubling dream that greatly disturbs him. He demands his wise men to not only interpret the dream but also recall the content of the dream itself. However, the wise men are unable to fulfil the king’s request. When Daniel hears about the king’s decree to execute all the wise men, he seeks an audience with the king, and through God’s revelation, Daniel is able to interpret the dream.

2. Praise and Acknowledgment: The verse begins with Daniel praising and blessing the name of God. This expression of praise reflects Daniel’s deep reverence and gratitude towards God. It signifies Daniel’s acknowledgment that God is the source of all wisdom and might. By starting with praise, Daniel demonstrates his faith and trust in God’s power and sovereignty.

3. God’s Eternal Nature: Daniel declares that God’s name is to be blessed forever and ever. This statement emphasises the eternal nature of God. It highlights the timeless existence of God and the unchanging character of His name. God’s name represents His attributes, nature, and reputation.

4. Wisdom and Might: Daniel acknowledges that wisdom and might belong to God. Wisdom refers to God’s perfect knowledge, discernment, and understanding. It signifies His ability to perceive and comprehend all things. Might refers to God’s power and strength, emphasising His ability to accomplish His purposes and exercise authority over all things. By attributing wisdom and might to God, Daniel recognises that God possesses unrivalled understanding and power, far surpassing any human or earthly ruler.