⁷ When the magicians,^(A) enchanters, astrologers^[a] and diviners^(B) came, I told them the dream, but they could not interpret it for me.^{(C) 8} Finally, Daniel came into my presence and I told him the dream. (He is called Belteshazzar,^(D) after the name of my god, and the spirit of the holy gods^(E) is in him.)

⁹ I said, “Belteshazzar, chief^(F) of the magicians, I know that the spirit of the holy gods^(G) is in you, and no mystery is too difficult for you. Here is my dream; interpret it for me.

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

¹⁸ “This is the dream that I, King Nebuchadnezzar, had. Now, Belteshazzar, tell me what it means, for none of the wise men in my kingdom can interpret it for me.^(D) But you can,^(E) because the spirit of the holy gods^(F) is in you.”^(G)

Daniel Interprets the Dream

¹⁹ Then Daniel (also called Belteshazzar) was greatly perplexed for a time, and his thoughts terrified^(H) him. So the king said, “Belteshazzar, do not let the dream or its meaning alarm you.”^(I)

Belteshazzar answered, “My lord, if only the dream applied to your enemies and its meaning to your adversaries!