דניאל, פרק ג׳, פסוק ל״א

An official royal letter is sent by King Nebuchadnezzar to every inhabitant of the world. Its purpose is to declare the greatness of God and share the story of how the king’s own pride was humbled [יוסף אבן יחיא, אלשיך]. The message follows the standard format for opening letters during that era. It begins by identifying the sender, lists the intended recipients, and concludes with a greeting of peace [רש"י, מלבי"ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Because his empire spanned the globe, the king directs his message to all peoples, nations, and languages across the earth [מלבי"ם].

Typically, a ruler of such immense power would send letters only to his ministers and regional governors. However, Nebuchadnezzar chooses to address the everyday people directly. This unusual choice reflects a deep sense of humility that he developed after God punished him for his previous arrogance. Desiring to teach all of humanity to avoid the dangers of pride, he places everyone—high-ranking officials and common citizens alike—on the exact same level. He speaks to them directly and personally, as if having a face-to-face conversation rather than communicating through royal scribes [אלשיך]. The introduction of his message then finishes with a warm blessing, wishing that their peace should continue to grow and multiply [מצודת דוד, אבן עזרא].