The Book of Daniel: Daniel 3

Temples Today (Modern Idolatry)

The 3 friends are refuse to worship an idol. Are there any idols in your heart?

Best image for illustrating this: Parthenon, Gian center statue, many small statues overhead lining the walls at the top. Big god in the middle, little gods on the side.

Outline:

Outline Text (Dan 2:49 Friends promoted, receive a higher standing, more honor, in Babylon)

(1) Image/Statue Created

(2-7) Collected : commanded

(8-12 Chaldean Claim

(13-15) Neb. Investigates Threatens

(16-18) The 3 friends defy

(19-23) The 3 friends thrown into the furnace

(24-25) Neb. Sees the 4th Man

(26-27) 3 friends rescued:
brought out

(28-29) Neb. (i) Declares : (2) Decrees

(30) The 3 friends promoted

Quotes:

“Nothing teaches us about the preciousness of the Creator as much as when we learn the emptiness of everything else.” Charles Spurgeon

“Whatever your heart clings to and confides in, that is really your God, your functional savior. ” Martin Luther

“anything that we come to rely on for some blessing, or help, or guidance in the place of a wholehearted reliance on the true and living God.” (John Piper)

-dynamics of faith are determined more by its object (the one believed in) than its subject (the one who believes).

-Culture: Thus Herskovits (Citation1948, 17) is right in describing culture as ‘the man-made part of the environment’. We might say that whereas man encounters nature, he creates culture; culture and not nature is what distinguishes him from other living beings.

-culture: Besides, culture refers to man in his entirety. It is not about man on his own but together with others, for culture is ‘the total, shared, learned behaviour of a society or subgroup’

-culture: Besides, culture is not fixed at a particular time, for it is ‘an historically transmitted pattern of meanings embodied in symbols, a system of inherited conceptions expressed in symbolic forms by means of which men communicate, perpetuate, and develop their knowledge about and attitudes toward life’ (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23753234.2017.1287281)

-faith: In effect, one of the key terms the Bible applies to God is that he is ‘faithful’… and the faith of creatures is possible because in the first place God is faithful in his actions and words to the Covenant he established with humans, being at once all-powerful, good and merciful. And in the New Testament the same idea is to be found: God is omnipotent Love, and therefore is worthy of unreserved faith. If God was not faithful then faith would dwindle, slump and die. In other words, faith is not ‘our’ contribution to a religious life, ‘our’ trusting attitude towards ultimate reality… Rather it is the adequate response of humans to a faithful, loving God who reveals himself to us, who infuses the light of his life into our hearts.

CULTURAL PROBLEMS over the YEARS-Racial Discrimination, Sexual Ethics, Consumerism, Abortion,

how to find an idol

What disappoints you?

Disappointed more than you thought? More than you should be about something? The disappointments can reveal the idols

What do you complain about the most?

Your complaints reveal your values.

financial situation? Money

Romance/intimacy? Sex

Not enough respect at work? Social Standing/honor

Winning/losing? Performance or sports

Where do you make financial sacrifices?

Where your treasure is there your heart will be also

What worries you?

Loss? Loneliness? Insignificiance? Ridicule?

Whatever wakes you up and keeps you up can be an idol

Where is your sanctuary?

where do you run when you are hurting?

Where is your high ground? Your place of security and recovery? Is God your refuge?

What infuriates you?

Losing? Need to be the best

Angry in traffic? Need to have power and control

Embarassed? Need to be honored, respected

What are your dreams?

It is good to have motivated ambition and aspiration, but you must then ask, “why?” Why do you want these things? Are those motivations pure?

Characters:

Daniel

The Biblical Prophet Daniel is a significant figure in both religious and historical contexts, renowned for his unwavering faith, prophetic visions, and influential role in the courts of Babylonian and Persian kings. The Book of Daniel, which is part of the Old Testament in the Christian Bible and the Hebrew Bible, provides the primary source of information about his life and experiences.

### Religious Perspective

#### Biblical Narrative

- **Early Life and Captivity**:

- Daniel was a young nobleman from the Kingdom of Judah who was taken captive to Babylon during the first deportation by King Nebuchadnezzar II in 605 BCE.

- In Babylon, Daniel and his three friends—Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (renamed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego)—were selected for their intellect and appearance to be trained in the ways of the Babylonians and serve in the king's court.

- **Faithfulness to God**:

- Daniel is noted for his steadfast faith and adherence to Jewish laws despite being in a foreign land. He famously refused to eat the king's food, opting for a diet of vegetables and water, which God blessed, making him healthier than those who ate the royal provisions.

- **Interpreting Dreams and Visions**:

- Daniel gained prominence by interpreting King Nebuchadnezzar's dreams when none of the Babylonian magicians and wise men could. His interpretations, attributed to divine revelation, earned him a high position in the Babylonian court.

- He also interpreted the mysterious writing on the wall ("Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin") during King Belshazzar's feast, predicting the fall of Babylon to the Medes and Persians.

- **Lions' Den**:

- Under Persian rule, Daniel continued to hold a high office. His enemies, jealous of his success, tricked King Darius into issuing a decree that led to Daniel being thrown into a den of lions for praying to God. God miraculously saved Daniel, leading to his continued favor with the king.

- **Prophetic Visions**:

- Daniel's later chapters (7-12) contain apocalyptic visions and prophecies about future kingdoms, the end times, and the coming of the "Son of Man," which have been subjects of extensive theological interpretation and eschatological speculation.

### Historical Perspective

#### Historical Context

- **Exilic Period**:

- The historical backdrop of Daniel's life is the Babylonian Exile, a significant event in Jewish history when many Jews were deported to Babylon after the fall of Jerusalem. This period lasted from 605 BCE to 539 BCE when Cyrus the Great of Persia conquered Babylon and allowed the Jews to return to their homeland.

- **Babylonian and Persian Empires**:

- Daniel's story intersects with key historical figures and events, such as the reigns of Nebuchadnezzar II, Belshazzar, and Darius the Mede (or possibly Cyrus the Great). His high-ranking positions suggest a narrative that spans critical transitions from Babylonian to Persian rule.

#### Historicity and Authorship

- **Debates on Historicity**:

- The historicity of Daniel as a real historical figure is debated among scholars. Some view the Book of Daniel as a work of historical fiction or apocalyptic literature written during the 2nd century BCE, specifically during the Maccabean revolt, to provide hope and encouragement to Jews facing persecution.

- Others argue for an earlier composition date, closer to the 6th century BCE, based on linguistic and historical clues within the text.

- **Archaeological Evidence**:

- There is limited direct archaeological evidence to corroborate the specific events of Daniel's life as described in the Bible. However, the general historical context of the Babylonian Exile and subsequent Persian period is well-documented through various ancient sources and archaeological findings.

### Legacy

- **Theological Impact**:

- Daniel is venerated as a prophet in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. His stories of faith and deliverance, along with his visions, have had a profound impact on religious thought, especially in areas of prophecy and eschatology.

- **Cultural Influence**:

- The narratives of Daniel, including the lions' den, the fiery furnace (with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego), and the prophetic visions, have inspired countless works of art, literature, and music throughout history.

In summary, Daniel is a pivotal figure whose life and visions bridge religious faith and historical contexts, offering insights into the Jewish experience during the Babylonian Exile and shaping theological concepts that resonate through various religious traditions.

The Biblical Prophet Daniel has inspired numerous works of art, literature, and music throughout history. His stories of faith, survival, and divine revelation have been depicted and interpreted in various cultural expressions.

### Art

1. **Michelangelo's "Daniel"**:

- Part of the Sistine Chapel ceiling (1508-1512), Michelangelo’s depiction of Daniel shows the prophet in a contemplative pose, reflecting the artist's Renaissance style and the significance of Daniel’s wisdom and prophecy.

2. **Peter Paul Rubens' "Daniel in the Lions' Den"**:

- This 1615-1616 painting by the Flemish Baroque master vividly portrays the dramatic moment when Daniel is in the lions' den, capturing the tension and divine intervention with powerful realism.

3. **Rembrandt’s "Belshazzar's Feast"**:

- Created around 1635, this painting by the Dutch master illustrates the scene from Daniel 5 where Daniel interprets the writing on the wall for King Belshazzar. The work is notable for its dramatic use of light and shadow.

### Literature

1. **"Daniel" in the Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha**:

- Various Jewish and early Christian texts expand on the Daniel narrative, including additional stories and interpretations found in works like the "Prayer of Azariah and Song of the Three Holy Children," "Susanna," and "Bel and the Dragon."

2. **"The Dream of Nebuchadnezzar" by William Blake**:

- Blake, the English poet and artist, was inspired by Daniel’s prophecies, particularly Nebuchadnezzar's dream of a statue. Blake’s work often reflects apocalyptic themes reminiscent of Daniel’s visions.

3. **"Daniel Deronda" by George Eliot**:

- This 1876 novel by George Eliot (the pen name of Mary Ann Evans) is not a direct retelling but uses the name "Daniel" symbolically. The protagonist, Daniel Deronda, undergoes a journey of self-discovery, paralleling themes of identity and destiny found in the Book of Daniel.

### Music

1. **"The Dream of Gerontius" by Edward Elgar**:

- This 1900 oratorio, while primarily based on a poem by John Henry Newman, includes influences from Daniel's visions of the afterlife and divine judgment, reflecting the apocalyptic and visionary aspects of Daniel’s story.

2. **"Daniel" by George Frideric Handel**:

- An oratorio by Handel, composed in 1748, tells the story of Daniel, focusing on key events such as the lions’ den and Belshazzar’s feast. Handel’s composition reflects the grandeur and drama of these biblical tales.

3. **"Daniel, a Sacred Cantata" by Ethel Smyth**:

- Composed in the early 20th century by Ethel Smyth, this cantata portrays the life and trials of Daniel, showcasing the prophet’s faith and the dramatic episodes of his life through music.

### Other Cultural Depictions

1. **"Godspell" by Stephen Schwartz**:

- The 1971 musical "Godspell" features a song titled "By My Side," which includes references to the lions’ den, drawing on Daniel's story to convey themes of faith and perseverance.

2. **"The Book of Daniel" (2006 TV series)**:

- This modern television series loosely draws on the character of Daniel, portraying a contemporary Episcopal priest who navigates personal and professional challenges with wisdom and faith.

The story of Daniel, with its rich narrative and profound themes, continues to inspire and resonate across various forms of artistic and cultural expressions, reflecting its enduring impact on human imagination and spiritual reflection.

Nebuchadnezzar II (lit. “O Nabu, protect my first-born Son; Nabu = the patron god of scribes, wisdom, and literature; son of Marduk, Babylonian Patheon’s most powerful god)

Born 642 B.C. and was the son of Nebupolassar

Grandson of Nebuchadnezzar I (provincial ruler/governor of Uruk under NeoAssyrian King Ashurbanipal

Nebuchadnezzar II was one of the most prominent and powerful kings of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, reigning from approximately 605 to 562 BCE. His reign is notable for his military conquests, impressive building projects, and significant impact on the ancient Near East.

### Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

- **Birth and Early Years**:

- Nebuchadnezzar II was born around 634 BCE. He was the eldest son of Nabopolassar, the founder of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, who established independence from Assyrian rule.

- His name, Nebuchadnezzar, is derived from the Akkadian name "Nabu-kudurri-usur," which means "O Nabu, protect my heir."

- **Military Career and Rise**:

- As crown prince, Nebuchadnezzar demonstrated his military prowess, particularly in the Battle of Carchemish in 605 BCE, where he defeated the Egyptians and Assyrians. This victory secured Babylonian dominance in the region.

- Shortly after this battle, Nabopolassar died, and Nebuchadnezzar quickly returned to Babylon to assume the throne.

### Reign and Achievements

- **Military Conquests**:

- Nebuchadnezzar II expanded the Babylonian Empire through numerous military campaigns. He subdued regions such as Syria, Phoenicia, and parts of Arabia.

- One of his most famous campaigns was against the Kingdom of Judah. In 597 BCE, he captured Jerusalem, deposed King Jehoiachin, and installed Zedekiah as a puppet king. When Zedekiah rebelled, Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem again in 587/586 BCE, leading to the city's destruction and the exile of many Jews to Babylon.

- **Building Projects**:

- Nebuchadnezzar II is renowned for his extensive building projects in Babylon, which made it one of the most splendid cities of the ancient world.

- He reconstructed the city's walls, including the famous Ishtar Gate, an impressive structure adorned with glazed bricks and reliefs of dragons and bulls.

- He renovated and expanded the Etemenanki ziggurat, which is often associated with the biblical Tower of Babel.

- The Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, are often attributed to him, although their historical existence and exact nature remain subjects of debate.

- **Administration and Governance**:

- Nebuchadnezzar II was a skilled administrator who maintained a strong central government. He implemented policies to promote economic prosperity, including agricultural improvements and infrastructure development.

### Legacy and Death

- **Cultural Impact**:

- Nebuchadnezzar II's reign left a lasting cultural and historical impact. His building projects and military achievements were celebrated in Babylonian records and later texts.

- In the Bible, Nebuchadnezzar is a prominent figure, appearing in several books, including Daniel, where he is depicted as a powerful, if sometimes capricious, ruler who eventually acknowledges the sovereignty of the God of Israel.

- **Death and Succession**:

- Nebuchadnezzar II died in 562 BCE after a long and influential reign. He was succeeded by his son Amel-Marduk (Evil-Merodach), who ruled for a brief period before being overthrown.

Nebuchadnezzar II's reign marked the zenith of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, and his legacy as a military leader and builder of one of the ancient world's greatest cities endures in historical and cultural memory.

PENTECOST:

Pentecost is a significant Christian holiday that commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ. This event is considered to mark the birth of the Christian Church and is described in the New Testament book of Acts, chapter 2.

### Key Aspects of Pentecost:

1. **Timing**:

- Pentecost occurs 50 days after Easter Sunday, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This period includes 40 days during which Jesus appeared to his disciples and ascended into heaven, followed by a 10-day waiting period for the promised Holy Spirit.

2. **Biblical Significance**:

- According to Acts 2:1-4, on the day of Pentecost, the apostles were gathered in Jerusalem. Suddenly, there was a sound like a rushing wind, and tongues of fire appeared and rested on each of them. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different languages, allowing them to communicate the gospel to people from various nations who were in Jerusalem for the Jewish Feast of Weeks (Shavuot).

3. **Theological Importance**:

- Pentecost is seen as the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to send the "Advocate" or "Comforter" (the Holy Spirit) to his disciples (John 14:16-17, 26). This event signifies the empowering of the apostles and the birth of the mission to spread the Christian faith globally.

4. **Church Celebrations**:

- Pentecost is often marked by special church services, including readings from Acts 2, hymns, and prayers. In many traditions, it is a time for baptisms and confirmations, as the day emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.

- The liturgical color for Pentecost is red, symbolizing the fire of the Holy Spirit. Churches may be decorated with red banners and flowers to represent the event.

5. **Cultural Traditions**:

- Various Christian denominations and cultures have unique customs associated with Pentecost. For instance, in some regions, it is common to have processions, feasts, and celebrations that reflect the joy of the Holy Spirit's gift.

Pentecost is a pivotal celebration in the Christian liturgical calendar, emphasizing the continued presence and activity of the Holy Spirit in the world and within the church.

BIBLE STUDY

Dan 3:1-30

Outline Text (Dan 2:49 Friends promoted, receive a higher standing, more honor, in Babylon)

(1) Image/Statue Created

(2-7) Collected : commanded

(8-12 Chaldean Claim

(13-15) Neb. Investigates Threatens

(16-18) The 3 friends defy

(19-23) The 3 friends thrown into the furnace

(24-25) Neb. Sees the 4th Man

(26-27) 3 friends rescued:
brought out

(28-29) Neb. (i) Declares : (2) Decrees

(30) The 3 friends promoted

Nebuchadnezzar as a god:

Daniel 2:37 “You, O king, the king of kings, to whom the God of heaven has given the kingdom, the power, and the might, and the glory,”

Daniel 3:1 “King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold, whose height was sixty cubits and its breadth six cubits. He set it up on the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon.”

Daniel 3:5 “that when you hear the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, bagpipe, and every kind of music, you are to fall down and worship the golden image that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up.”

Daniel 3:7 “Therefore, as soon as all the peoples heard the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, bagpipe, and every kind of music, all the peoples, nations, and languages fell down and worshiped the golden image that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up.”

Daniel 3:9 “They declared to King Nebuchadnezzar, “O king, live forever!”

Daniel 3:11 “And whoever does not fall down and worship shall be cast into a burning fiery furnace.”

Daniel 3:15 “Now if you are ready when you hear the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, bagpipe, and every kind of music, to fall down and worship the image that I have made, well and good. But if you do not worship, you shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace. And who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands?””

4th man: Angel or Jesus?

Theophany or Christophany

(1) Visible manifestations most often involve the Angel of the Lord appearing in human form, but could also include other visible encounters such as the fire and smoke on Mount Sinai.

(2) Auditory manifestations are indicated by the many “and the LORD said unto...” statements found throughout the Old Testament, but also include unique encounters like the “still small voice” that spoke to Elijah in the cave (1 Ki 19:12).

(3) Visions and dreams also exhibit theophany characteristics, such as Jacob’s ladder dream (Gen 28:12), Daniel’s man in linen vision (Daniel 10-12), and Zechariah’s man among the myrtle trees vision (Zechariah 1:7-17). However, whether or not visions and dreams should be considered theophanies is controversial among scholars since they involve a metaphysical or spiritual presence rather than a physical one.

Five similarities:

(1) A God-initiated encounter

(2) Declarations of deity

(3) Miraculous actions and knowledge

(4) Comforting statements

(5) Worship of God as a result of the encounter

The Lord appears to Abraham (Gen 18:1-15)

The man wrestles with Jacob (Gen 32:24-30)

The angel of the Lord speaks from the Burning Bush (Ex 3:2-10)

The Angel of the Lord Confronts Balaam (Num 22:22-35)

Commander of the Lord’s Army Appears to Joshua (Josh 5:13-15)

The Angel of the Lord Visits Manoah and His Wife (Judges 13)

The fourth man in the fire (Dan 3:16-28)

Also…

John 1:1–3 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.”

Paul confirms

Colossians 1:15–17 “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”

CULTURAL PRESSURES

(1) Define Culture

(2) What are the big cultural issues of your childhood? Your 20’s-30’s? Today? How are they different?

(3) Which culture would you say most accurately respresents you? Is there one potential idol/sinful proclivity from your culture?