Old Testament
Daniel 4:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You will be driven away from people, and you will live with the wild animals. You will eat grass like cattle and be drenched with the dew of heaven. Seven times will pass over you until you acknowledge that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he chooses.
Compare translations
That they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and they shall wet thee with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over thee, till thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.
What Daniel 4:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a warning is given to a powerful king about the consequences of his pride. He will be separated from society and forced to live like a wild animal, eating grass and exposed to the elements. This state will last for seven periods, symbolizing a significant time of humility. The purpose of this experience is to teach him that there is a higher authority, the Most High, who governs all kingdoms and decides who rules. This message emphasizes the importance of recognizing that no one is above the divine order. It serves as a reminder that pride can lead to downfall, and true power lies in acknowledging a greater force at work in the world. Ultimately, the king must learn to submit to this higher authority to regain his sanity and position. This transformation is crucial for his understanding of leadership and responsibility, highlighting the need for humility in all aspects of life. The lesson is clear: true wisdom comes from recognizing our place in the grand scheme of things.
How to apply Daniel 4:25 to your life
Reflect on areas in your life where pride may be clouding your judgment. Consider how humility can lead to personal growth and better relationships. Acknowledge that there are forces beyond your control, and embrace the lessons that come from recognizing your limitations. This awareness can foster a deeper understanding of your role in the world around you. Stay open to learning from your experiences and those of others around you.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: The Great Tree (Daniel 4:1–37)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Daniel 4:25
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Daniel 4:25
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Daniel
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 4:25 mean?
Daniel 4:25 conveys a warning to a king about the consequences of his pride. He will be driven away from people and live like a wild animal until he acknowledges that God is the ultimate authority over all kingdoms.
What is the significance of 'seven times' in Daniel 4:25?
The phrase 'seven times' in Daniel 4:25 symbolizes a complete period of time during which the king will experience humility and learn that God rules over all. It indicates a significant duration for his transformation.
How does Daniel 4:25 relate to pride and humility?
Daniel 4:25 illustrates the consequences of pride by showing how the king must endure humiliation to learn humility. It teaches that acknowledging a higher power is essential for true wisdom and leadership.
What lesson can we learn from Daniel 4:25?
The lesson from Daniel 4:25 is that pride can lead to downfall, and recognizing our limitations is crucial. It encourages humility and understanding our place in the larger context of life.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.