A global emperor's public letter reaches its most dramatic turning point as a terrifying dream becomes an undeniable reality. The heavenly decree is executed perfectly, with every detail of the predicted interpretation coming to pass [רש״י, אבן עזרא, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This complete realization of the prophecy includes the entire sequence of events, encompassing even the temporary delay of the punishment, which was briefly achieved when Daniel advised the monarch to give charity [מלבי״ם].
As the events unfold, there is a sudden shift in the narrative perspective from the first person to the third person, referring directly to the king by his name and royal title. The primary approach among commentators is that the monarch is still the one speaking. Referring to oneself in the third person is a recognized biblical style, similar to how prophets expressed themselves in the past [אבן עזרא, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. However, another perspective suggests that this specific statement serves as a transitional note inserted by the author of the text rather than the king himself [מלבי״ם].
A deeper approach strongly rejects the idea that this is merely an external note, arguing instead that the shift in perspective is a highly deliberate choice by the ruler. By speaking about himself in the third person and highlighting his royal title, he intends to broadcast a clear message of faith to all nations. He wants the world to understand that his downfall was not the result of bad luck, astrological alignments, or the natural decline of an empire. A natural loss of power typically happens slowly and gradually. By framing his experience this way, he emphasizes that the disaster struck him with absolute suddenness, exactly when he was at the very peak of his pride, strength, and authority. Plunging instantly from the absolute height of global rule to the lowest possible state is meant to prove to everyone that this was a direct decree from God, Who holds the power to humble the mightiest of rulers in the blink of an eye [אלשיך].