That Image of Gold In Daniel 3

How Nebuchadnezzar’s Project Connects to His Dream

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When you read the events of Daniel 3, you get the impression that King Nebuchadnezzar must have lost his mind. But, alas, he had not. Such a loss was reserved for the next chapter.

Still, in Daniel 3, wild things ensue. The king of Babylon calls for the construction of an image of gold, and he wants people to worship it when musicians play. “And whoever does not fall down and worship shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace” (Dan. 3:6).

What was Nebuchadnezzar thinking with this construction project? When you read through Daniel 3, the theme of idolatry is clear. The display of courage is clear. Divine rescue is clear. As a single chapter, Daniel 3 is edifying and heart-stirring, even if we’re initially baffled by Nebuchadnezzar’s spiritual rebellion.

But have you ever wondered what prompted this construction project in the first place? I think we can get an answer to this question. We have to see the project of Daniel 3 in light of the dream of Daniel 2.