Structural Panel Unit: The Literary and Theological Architecture of the Book of Daniel

Abstract

This article proposes a synchronic reading of the book of Daniel, advocating its literary and theological unity through a panel structure. Contrary to redactionist views that fragment the work based on historical or linguistic criteria, the study contends that the chapters—written in both Aramaic and Hebrew—are intentionally organized into two parallel and corresponding blocks. The analysis identifies two recurring thematic quadrilaterals spanning the narrative and visionary sections: the first, composed of Daniel 1, 2, 7, and 8, emphasizes the succession of kingdoms, the oppression of the faithful, and divine judgment; the second, composed of Daniel 3—4, 5—6, 9, and 12:3, focuses on idolatrous coercion, angelic deliverance, and decrees of judgment against oppressors. The study highlights that these themes not only transcend the book’s linguistic divisions but also repeat and expand across corresponding sections, providing structural cohesion and theological unity. Engaging with scholars such as Shea, Gane, and Doukhan, the article argues that the literary structure reveals God's sovereignty over history and the eschatological future. It concludes that the book of Daniel is a deliberately composed and hopeful work in which the faithfulness of God’s people and divine justice converge in an eschatological climax.