Chapter 36

¹ Now the dream seen by the king was not earthly, that it might be interpreted by the wise men of the world, but it was heavenly, to be fulfilled in its own appointed times according to the counsel and providence of God.

² And for this reason it was hidden from those men who think on earthly things, so that to those who seek the heavenly things the heavenly mysteries might be revealed.

³ For indeed, in Egypt under Pharaoh it happened in like manner.

⁴ For he, having seen the dreams, related them to all the interpreters of Egypt, and there was none to declare them to Pharaoh; but when the blessed Joseph was present, the things not understood by others were opportunely made plain. And for this reason the king, marveling, answered his servants, saying, “Can we possibly find such a man, in whom is the Spirit of God?” By this the Scripture signifies that no one will be able to expound the heavenly mysteries unless he be an interpreter as one who partakes of the Holy Spirit.

⁵ So then in Babylon also the vision was hidden from the king, so that Daniel, chosen by God, might be shown to be a prophet. For whatever things are hidden from some, but revealed by another, of necessity prove the one who speaks them to be a prophet.