Understanding the Biblical Book of Daniel: A 2nd Century BCE Literary Expedition

The Book of Daniel is one of the most intriguing and enigmatic books in the Hebrew Bible. Its historical and religious significance have been the subject of much debate among scholars, particularly regarding its origins and reception. This article aims to explore the literary context, historical accuracy, and religious implications of this fascinating document, all written in what some believe is a 2nd Century BCE guise with a 6th Century BCE setting.

Origins and Composition

The author of the Book of Daniel, with a possible parallel to the author of the Book of Job, crafted the work as a novel containing a 2nd-century BCE biblical apocalypse set in a 6th-century BCE frame. The narratives within may have originated as independent Aramaic court tales that were later expanded by Hebrew revelations. The author likely composed the edited collection in the 3rd or early 2nd century BCE, using a language predominantly in Aramaic (2:4–7:28), which points towards a date later than the Babylonian Exile of the 6th century BCE.

Authorship and Cultural Context

The Jewish author or editor who put together the Book of Daniel was well-educated, knowledgeable in Greek learning, and held a high standing in his community. This author probably chose the name Daniel, the wise seer of Hebrew tradition, possibly citing references in the Book of Ezekiel (14:14, 14:20, 28:3). The influence of Greek culture and learning is evident through the book's vocabulary and style, with multiple elements indicating a later composition than the traditional date of 6th century BCE.

Historical and Religious Implications

Many inaccuracies within the text align with the post-exilic period, such as the absence of Belshazzar's deportation in 605 BCE, Darius the Mede’s succession to Cyrus, and other historical inconsistencies. These elements cast doubt on the book's historical reliability and suggest a later origin in the 2nd century BCE. Scholars do not view the Book of Daniel as a reliable historical guide, as it portrays scenes and events that are historically unverifiable and do not align with the 6th century BCE period.

The Prophecies and Visions

While the Book of Daniel features several prophecies, the text itself does not function as a prophetic book but as an apocalyptic narrative. The visions in chapters 7-12 are believed to have been added during the persecution of Jews under Antiochus IV Epiphanes (175-164 BCE), and the book was likely completed soon after his reign. The author of the Book of Daniel intended to address the deep spiritual and political turmoil of the Hellenistic period, using cryptic messages that alluded to the persecution of the Jews by the Greek Seleucid king.

Language and Literary Analysis

Examining the language of the Book of Daniel reveals that it uses predominantly Aramaic (2:4-7:28), suggesting a later period of composition. The unique combination of Hebrew and Aramaic forms a complex blend that reflects the linguistic and cultural interactions of the time. Daniel 5, in particular, employs a sophisticated linguistic style that aligns with the 2nd century BCE.

Conclusion and Further Research

Scholars generally agree that the authors of the stories in chapters 1-6 originated as legends, while the visions in chapters 7-12 were written during the persecution of Jews under Antiochus IV Epiphanes. The completed book was likely finished shortly after his reign, reflecting the turbulent political and spiritual climate of the Hellenistic era. Understanding the Book of Daniel requires a nuanced approach that considers both its literary and historical contexts, as well as its complex use of prophecy and apocalyptic imagery.

References

1. Britannica: Book of Daniel 2. Jewish Virtual Library: The Book of Daniel 3. Bible Gateway: Daniel 5