דניאל, פרק ב׳, פסוק ל״ו

After recounting the frightening and obscure vision, Daniel brings clarity to the monarch's mind, allowing the king to fully remember what he had seen in his sleep [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. By providing such precise details, Daniel proves to the king that just as the recall of the dream is completely accurate, the explanation he is about to offer is the absolute truth [אלשיך]. He confirms that this was indeed the exact vision the king experienced [רש״י] and emphasizes that his upcoming explanation is the single, definitive meaning of the event, rather than a mere guess or a product of imagination [אלשיך].

As Daniel prepares to deliver this meaning, he frames his words collectively. Commentators offer two ways to understand why he includes others in his statement. One approach suggests a distinction between knowing the secret of the dream, which is impossible for a person and requires a revelation from heaven, and understanding its meaning, which relies on human wisdom. By speaking collectively, Daniel includes himself along with the other wise men who possess the wisdom to interpret dreams [מצודת דוד]. Another perspective views this approach as a mark of humility and good manners, showing Daniel partnering himself with the attribute of wisdom itself to deliver the meaning [אבן עזרא].

As Daniel transitions to the actual explanation, the setting shifts. While the details of the vision were declared publicly in front of all the royal servants, the meaning is shared with the king in complete privacy. Because the explanation contains a harsh message regarding the future collapse of the king's empire, it is kept a secret from everyone else present [מלבי״ם].