The Attempt to Discover the Meaning

Greatly troubled, the king repeated the dream to the wise men. But although the dream was very explicit, no one could interpret it. In his perplexity the king sent for Daniel, who was admired for his integrity and unrivaled wisdom.RR 184.1

After relating the dream, Nebuchadnezzar said, “Declare its interpretation, since all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known to me the interpretation; but you are able, for the Spirit of the Holy God is in you.”RR 184.2

The meaning of the dream was plain to Daniel, and its significance startled him. Seeing Daniel’s hesitation and distress, the king expressed sympathy for his servant. “Do not let the dream or its interpretation trouble you.”RR 184.3

The prophet realized that God had laid on him the solemn duty of revealing to Nebuchadnezzar the judgment about to fall on him because of his pride and arrogance. Although its dreadful meaning had made him hesitate, he must state the truth, whatever the consequences to himself.RR 184.4

“The tree that you saw,” he said, “is you, O king, ... for your greatness has grown ... to the end of the earth. And inasmuch as the king saw a Watcher, a Holy One, ... saying, ‘Chop down the tree and destroy it, but leave its stump,’ ... this is the interpretation. ... They shall drive you from men, your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make you eat grass like oxen. They shall wet you with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over you, till you know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses. And inasmuch as they gave the command to leave the stump and roots of the tree, your kingdom shall be assured to you, after you come to know that Heaven rules.”RR 184.5

Daniel urged the proud monarch to repent in order to avert the threatened disaster. “Break off your sins by being righteous, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the poor. Perhaps there may be a lengthening of your prosperity.”RR 184.6