Daniel | Chapter Summaries + Study QuestionsSample

DANIEL 4

NEBUCHADNEZZAR REPENTS AFTER BEING HUMBLED BY GOD

Shifting from the perspective of Daniel, this chapter is from Nebuchadnezzar’s point of view. Nebuchadnezzar praises God as the Most High God, recalling His mighty works and acknowledging His everlasting kingdom.

In a second dream, Nebuchadnezzar sees a tall, flourishing tree that provides abundant fruit and shelter for animals. However, a messenger from heaven declares that the tree is to be stripped of its branches, cut down to a stump, and left in the fields with the beasts for seven years.

Daniel interprets the dream, revealing its unfortunate meaning. Nebuchadnezzar will be like the tree stump—cut down from his greatness and removed from his people. For seven years, he will live among the animals, eating grass like the beasts of the field.

Daniel’s interpretation comes to pass, and Nebuchadnezzar is humbled. Nebuchadnezzar eventually exalts God and praises Him for His everlasting dominion as Lord. Once Nebuchadnezzar extols God as the King of Heaven, Nebuchadnezzar is restored as king of Babylon.

STUDY QUESTIONS

How was King Nebuchadnezzar’s faith dependent on his circumstances? How can a faith based on circumstances become fleeting and harmful?

In Daniel 4, God restored Nebuchadnezzar’s royal position. Why do you think God showed him mercy? What does this teach us about God’s character?