15 But leave the stump with its roots in the ground(A)
and with a band of iron and bronze around it
in the tender grass of the field.
Let him be drenched with dew from the sky
and share the plants of the earth(B)
with the animals.
16 Let his mind be changed from that of a human,
and let him be given the mind of an animal
for seven periods of time.[a][b](C)
17 This word is by decree of the watchers,
and the decision is by command from the holy ones.
This is so that the living will know
that the Most High is ruler
over human kingdoms.
He gives them to anyone he wants
and sets the lowliest of people over them.(D)

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Footnotes

  1. 4:16 Lit animal as seven times pass over him
  2. 4:16 Perhaps seven years

15 But let the stump and its roots, bound with iron and bronze, remain in the ground, in the grass of the field.

“‘Let him be drenched with the dew of heaven, and let him live with the animals among the plants of the earth. 16 Let his mind be changed from that of a man and let him be given the mind of an animal, till seven times[a] pass by for him.(A)

17 “‘The decision is announced by messengers, the holy ones declare the verdict, so that the living may know that the Most High(B) is sovereign(C) over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes and sets over them the lowliest(D) of people.’

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Footnotes

  1. Daniel 4:16 Or years; also in verses 23, 25 and 32