A literary-historical analysis of Daniel 2: two powers in opposition
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Date
2002
Authors
Nel, M.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Faculty of Theology, University of the Free State
Abstract
This article investigates some aspects of Daniel 2 and attempts to demonstrate the
value of the literary-historical approach to biblical texts. The literary-historical
approach consists of three elements: a structural, a historical and a narrative analysis
of the text. Firstly, the structural investigation uses Propp’s model for a functional
analysis of the text, followed by a semiotic analysis to identify the functions
and qualifications in the text. A description of the functions and qualifications is
essential in order to identify the text’s pertinent transformations as well as its underlying
semiotic squares. The latter enables the researcher to formulate the theological
values or persuasions which the writer wished to convey to her readers. Secondly,
synchronic and diachronic insights are integrated in an analysis of the text. Lastly,
the results of the study are concluded in a narrative synthesis, in terms of the narrator,
setting, characters, plot and style.
In Daniel 2 the Babylonian king, shortly after being enthroned, dreams about his
political insecurity. The narrator emphasises that it is God who appoints and
dethrones kings. He reveals the future (Dan. 2:29, 47). He rules over the world (Dan.
2:21, 37, 44), and He cares for His people (Dan. 2:48-49). Israel will rule over the
world once God destroys all other kingdoms (Dan. 2:44-45). The narrator of Daniel
2 conveys two persuasions to her readers: she emphasises the sovereign rule of God,
not only in Jerusalem but also in Babylon, and the responsibility of the faithful.3
Most researchers accept that the tale in Daniel 2 is not literally true. It
should be read as a literary text. However, the tale has also functioned in
various historical contexts and should be read from a historical-critical perspective
Description
Keywords
Old Testament exegesis, Literary-historical approach, Daniel 2
Citation
Nel, M. (2002). A literary-historical analysis of Daniel 2: two powers in opposition. Acta Theologica, 22(1), 77-97.