Daniel 2:46 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

Then the king Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face, and worshipped Daniel, and commanded that they should offer an oblation and sweet odours unto him.

Then the king Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face, and worshipped Daniel - worshipping God in the person of Daniel. Symbolical of the future prostration of the world-power before Messiah and His kingdom (Philippians 2:10). As other servants of God refused such honours-for instance, "Peter took Cornelius up, saying, Stand up: I myself also am a man" (Acts 10:25-26); and Paul and Barnabas refused worship at Lystra (Acts 14:13-15); and the angel refused the worship of John (Revelation 22:8-9); and Daniel (Daniel 1:8) would not taste defiled food, nor give up prayer to God at the cost of his life (Daniel 6:1-28), it seems likely that Daniel rejected the proffered divine honours. The word "answered" (Daniel 2:47) - "the king answered unto Daniel" - implies that Daniel had objected to these honours; and in compliance with his objection, "the king answered ... Of a truth ... your God is a God of gods." Daniel had disclaimed all personal merit in Daniel 2:30, giving GOD all the glory (cf. Daniel 2:45).

And commanded that they should offer an oblation and sweet odours unto him - divine honours (Ezra 6:10). It is not said his command was executed.

Daniel 2:46

46 Then the king Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face, and worshipped Daniel, and commanded that they should offer an oblation and sweet odours unto him.