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Book of Daniel - Chapter 2 - Verse 2

2:2
Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the astrologers, and the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans, for to shew the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king.

Meaning

When King Nebuchadnezzar had troubling dreams, he turned to his trusted advisors - the magicians, astrologers, sorcerers, and Chaldeans - to interpret their meaning. These individuals were respected in ancient Babylonian society for their supposed ability to communicate with spirits and foresee the future. The king believed that by consulting these experts, he would gain insight into the significance of his dreams and potentially receive guidance on how to proceed. The presence of these diverse groups of advisers highlights the importance placed on spiritual beliefs and practices in the royal court, demonstrating the influence of religion and superstition on the decision-making process of the king. Ultimately, the king's reliance on these individuals reflects a common practice of seeking supernatural explanations for worldly events in ancient societies.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Daniel, the king of Babylon calls upon various groups of people - magicians, astrologers, sorcerers, and Chaldeans - to help him interpret his dreams. Each of these groups had their own specializations and methods of divination. The magicians were experts in various forms of magic and illusion, while the astrologers looked to the stars for answers. Sorcerers used incantations and spells to manipulate spiritual forces, and the Chaldeans were known for their expertise in interpreting dreams. By summoning these individuals, the king hoped to gain insight into the meaning of his dreams. This verse highlights the reliance on supernatural or spiritual practices in ancient societies to gain wisdom and understanding of events beyond human comprehension. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking divine guidance and interpretation when faced with challenges or uncertainties.

American Standard Version

Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the enchanters, and the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans, to tell the king his dreams. So they came in and stood before the king.
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