THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Why did you, human, refrain from expressing this word? It did not pertain to the Jewish people at all; rather, God conveyed it in secret, preserving it in the heart of the prophet. Consequently, he concludes by stating, These words are concealed and sealed until the end times (Dan. 12:9), indicating his desire for them to remain enigmatic. This is akin to what Christ himself does when he teaches through parables. Observe how the prophet magnifies this kingdom in every manner, urging you to grasp nothing merely human. Although humans may possess the entirety of the earth, they cannot hold onto it eternally. Do not assert that the prophet is referring to a brief period. What do the words mean, ‘This kingdom shall not be given to another people’ (Dan. 2:44)?
Read more (54 words)
Consider what transpired under Darius and the Macedonians. Who was it for? It was for the Jews. Thus, it is recorded that Alexander offered worship at the temple when he encountered the book of Daniel, and the Gentiles were astonished by the power of his prophecy. This was the sole proclamation of this prophet.
Consider the wisdom displayed by the prophet. He does not immediately assert, "I can reveal this," but instead addresses what the king truly needs to comprehend. He states, "The mystery that the king inquires about cannot be made known to him by the wise men, charmers, mystery-keepers, or fortune-tellers. However, there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets." This defends those who have unjustly faced death, indicating he is not speaking out of self-interest. He indicates that his intention is not to elevate himself above the wise men but to convince the king that he speaks beyond mere human insight. "But there is a God in heaven": this underscores that God transcends the earthly realm and is distinct from the earthly deities worshipped by the king.
Read more (578 words)
"And He revealed to King Nebuchadnezzar what would occur in the last days." Observe how he communicates gently; he encapsulates the essence of the vision at the outset, capturing the king's attention without burdening him with heavy truths. "Thy dream," he declares, "and the visions of thy head upon thy bed were these: Thou, O king, upon thy bed pondered, 'What shall be after these things?' And He who reveals mysteries showed thee what shall come to pass" (Dan. 2:28-29). He articulates the common notion that dreams seem to linger above one’s consciousness, perhaps because thought centers there, or because the head symbolizes the eyes. His remarks imply that the king has provided the opportunity for revelation. He did not simply state that God has revealed something to him, but instead said that the king had contemplated "what shall be after this." Since he assumed dominion over the world, he has presumably also considered whether he could expand his sovereignty or face death. The weight of power often tempts one to forget human mortality. Hence, it is probable that, lost in the depths of his own achievements, he lacked the conviction he was mortal. A similar lesson had been delivered to another ruler, as it was said to the king of Tyre, "Being man, and not God" (Ezekiel 28:2). Observe how he admonishes the king without causing offense; he does not assert, "This is what you are thinking," but rather, "What shall happen afterwards? You have reflected on tomorrow." "Upon thy bed," when all was tranquil and undisturbed, a time when numerous thoughts arise, often disrupting our peace and leisure, many choose to dedicate this time to prayer, aware that idleness can lead to great harm. "And He who reveals secrets has shown you what shall be." He mentions God once more, emphasis lying on the distinction of His nature; in this context, He is "in heaven" and here, "He who reveals secrets has shown you what shall come." "But as for me, this mystery is revealed, not that I might be wiser than all the living, but that the interpretation may be made known to the king, and that you may understand the thoughts of your heart" (Dan. 2:30). It is as if he indicates: "This revelation does not originate from me, and my unique awareness does not elevate me above others. God has not done this due to my wisdom. If the king were to worship him as a deity even after stating this, what if he had not made his intentions clear?" "But for the purpose of revealing it to the king," he continues. "It is not you who should express gratitude to me, but I to you; I have learned so that you may know." Notice how he draws the king closer to God, attributing the forthcoming miracle and his affection for him to God. Understanding that it serves his honor will enable the king to draw near to God. You are honored by God more than I, he conveys. Witness the deviousness of this young man, who avoids acknowledging the king's praise before addressing the subject. How can someone who dismisses honor when it is offered also pursue glory? He does not argue that he has been granted revelation because he serves God more faithfully than others, but instead emphasizes: "So that you can learn what is beneficial." The significance of this message should have been apparent to his listeners without further explanation.