Daniel 3:4 Meaning and Explanation
“Then an herald cried aloud, To you it is commanded, O people, nations, and languages,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A herald proclaims the king's command to all peoples, nations, and languages gathered on the plain.
What Does Daniel 3:4 Mean?
A herald lifts his voice to deliver the royal edict. The address "O people, nations, and languages" pictures the diverse, conquered world of Babylon assembled in one place. The command comes with the full authority of the throne behind it, leaving no room for misunderstanding.
The phrase "people, nations, and languages" recurs through this book and points beyond Babylon to every tribe under heaven. Earthly kings issue decrees to the nations; yet Scripture looks forward to the day when peoples of every language will instead worship the Lord with one voice. For now, the herald's cry confronts each hearer with a choice no announcement can make for them: whom will they obey?
Frequently Asked Questions About Daniel 3:4
What does Daniel 3:4 mean?
A herald proclaims the king's command to all peoples, nations, and languages gathered on the plain.