I Nebuchadnezzar was at rest in mine house
Being returned from his wars, and having obtained victory over the Egyptians, and other nations, and made himself an universal monarch; and now was in entire rest from all his enemies; enjoying himself in his family, and among his courtiers, and nothing to disturb him from any quarter. Josephus F2 says this was a little after the history of the former chapter; but it must be many years after that: he reigned forty five years; one year after this dream, it came to pass; it was seven years fulfilling, and he lived after his restoration a year or two; so that this must be about the thirty fifth year of his reign. Bishop Usher F3 and Mr. Whiston F4 place it in the year of the world 3434 A.M., and before Christ 570; and so Dr. Prideaux F5. Mr. Bedford F6 puts it in the year 569: and flourishing in my palace:
in health of body, in rigour of mind, abounding with riches; indulging himself in all sensual pleasures; adored by his subjects, caressed by his courtiers, and in fame throughout the whole world: a new palace was built by him, of which ( Daniel 4:30 ) , being, as Dr. Prideaux F7 says, four times as large as the old one; eight miles in compass; surrounded with three walls; and had hanging gardens in it, he made for his wife.