Topical Encyclopedia
The God of Daniel is a central figure in the Book of Daniel, a prophetic book in the Old Testament. This God is depicted as sovereign, omnipotent, and omniscient, actively involved in the affairs of nations and individuals. The narrative of Daniel highlights God's power, wisdom, and faithfulness, particularly in the context of the Babylonian exile.
Attributes and TitlesThe God of Daniel is often referred to as the "Most High God" (
Daniel 4:2) and the "God of heaven" (
Daniel 2:18). These titles emphasize His supreme authority over all creation and His transcendence above earthly rulers and deities. The God of Daniel is also characterized by His eternal nature, as seen in
Daniel 6:26 : "For He is the living God, and He endures forever; His kingdom will never be destroyed, and His dominion will never end."
Divine Sovereignty and PowerThroughout the Book of Daniel, God's sovereignty is a recurring theme. He is portrayed as the ultimate ruler who controls the rise and fall of empires. In
Daniel 2:21 , it is stated, "He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them." This divine control is further illustrated in the narrative of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, where God reveals the future succession of world empires (
Daniel 2:31-45).
God's power is also demonstrated through miraculous interventions. In
Daniel 3, He delivers Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the fiery furnace, and in
Daniel 6, He rescues Daniel from the lions' den. These acts of deliverance underscore His ability to protect and save His faithful servants against seemingly insurmountable odds.
Wisdom and RevelationThe God of Daniel is depicted as the source of all wisdom and knowledge. In
Daniel 2:22 , it is declared, "He reveals the deep and hidden things; He knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with Him." This divine wisdom is particularly evident in the interpretation of dreams and visions, which are central to the book's narrative. Daniel, endowed with wisdom from God, is able to interpret Nebuchadnezzar's dreams and the mysterious writing on the wall (
Daniel 5:25-28).
Faithfulness and Covenant RelationshipThe God of Daniel is faithful to His covenant people, even in exile. Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains committed to His promises. Daniel's prayer in
Daniel 9 reflects this covenant relationship, as he appeals to God's mercy and righteousness on behalf of his people (
Daniel 9:4-19). God's response to Daniel's prayer, through the angel Gabriel, reaffirms His plan for Israel's future restoration and the coming of the Messiah (
Daniel 9:24-27).
Judgment and JusticeThe God of Daniel is also a God of justice, who holds individuals and nations accountable for their actions. This is vividly illustrated in the judgment of King Belshazzar, where the writing on the wall declares his kingdom's imminent fall due to his arrogance and sacrilege (
Daniel 5:26-28). God's justice is further emphasized in the prophetic visions of Daniel, which foretell the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over all earthly powers (
Daniel 7:13-14).
ConclusionThe God of Daniel is a powerful and just deity, deeply involved in the world and the lives of His people. His attributes of sovereignty, wisdom, faithfulness, and justice are consistently demonstrated throughout the Book of Daniel, offering a profound understanding of His character and His plans for humanity.