The Most High God

Today we are going to begin a study of the book of Daniel. Why begin with Daniel? Too often the subject of prophecy is overlooked because it is seen as confusing and/or there are too many different views out there (read quacky ideas). But Daniel is a kind of bridge between narrative history and prophecy. It is a great way to start the study of prophecy. In any case Matthew 24:42 says, "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come." Shouldn't we be prepared for the future?

As we begin, we need to understand that the interpretation of the Bible in this study will be from an Historical/Grammatical viewpoint. This means that it will be read in a literal manner unless there is a compelling reason not to. For example, we will be reading literally except for things like figures of speech and parables.

Daniel 1:1-2 (KJV)
¹ In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it.
² And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure house of his god.

Let's set the stage. What can we tell about the historical context? Who were the world powers at the time? Egypt and Babylon were the "world" powers during the late seventh century B.C. What was going on in Israel at this time? It is located, unfortunately, between the two opposing powers and there was a struggle over dominion going on between the two "super" powers. In 605 B.C. the Babylonian Empire under Nebuchadnezzar attacked the Egyptian army at Carchemesh, which is located on the upper Euphrates River. Daniel 1:1 tells us that in the third year of Jehoiakim (the king of Judah, the southern kingdom of the Jews) Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem. Who was responsible for the outcome of the siege? Daniel 1:2 says that God gave Jerusalem into the hand of the Babylonians. What did Nebuchadnezzar bring back to Babylon? He brought part of the vessels of the house of God (the Temple of God). Where did he take these items? He brought them to the land of Shinar (Babylon) and put them into the treasure house of his god which would have been Marduk. The reason for this would be as a thank offering to Marduk as well as a means of humiliating the God of Judah.

Next: Daniel 1:3-7