What does Daniel 3:3 mean?
After hearing the interpretation of his dream (Daniel 2:36), Nebuchadnezzar creates some sort of enormous idol and commands high officials from all over the empire to attend its dedication (Daniel 3:1–2). The list here is identical to that in the prior verse (Daniel 3:2), with a long list of positions and job titles. That repetition suggests the oppressive and intrusive nature of the king's upcoming command (Daniel 3:4–6). This chapter will make a point of repeating certain phrases and lists, possibly to continue emphasizing this idea.Some commentators suggest that Nebuchadnezzar set up the golden image to prove he had not abandoned the polytheistic religion of the Babylonians. He had, after all, praised Daniel's God (Daniel 2:47). Others speculate that the occasion was a celebration of Nebuchadnezzar's many military victories. It seems most likely that Nebuchadnezzar wanted everyone in his kingdom to see him as the majestic, supreme ruler over Babylon's many provinces. Bowing to the image would symbolize submission to the power and religion of Babylon.
Nebuchadnezzar's construction of the golden image on the plain of Dura prefigures the construction of the image of the beast by the false prophet of Israel in the tribulation (Revelation 13:11–15).