John Calvin Commentary Daniel 2:16

"And Daniel went in, and desired of the king that he would appoint him a time, and he would show the king the interpretation." — Daniel 2:16 (ASV)

This verse contains nothing new, unless we should note what is not expressed: namely, that the prefect was not entirely without fear in giving Daniel an introduction to the king. For he knew the king was very angry, and that he himself was under serious displeasure for not immediately executing the edict.

But, as we have already said, God had taken Daniel into His confidence, and He so bends and tames the mind of the prefect that he no longer hesitates to introduce Daniel to the king. Another point is also gathered from the context: namely, that Daniel obtained his request. For it is said, he returned home, doubtless because he obtained a single day from the king in order to satisfy his demands on the next day.

And yet it is surprising that this favor was granted, since the king wanted the dream narrated to him immediately. Although Daniel does not here state the reasons he gave to the king, it is most probable that he confessed what we will observe later in its proper place: namely, that he was not endowed with sufficient intelligence to expound the dream, but, hoping in God’s kindness, he would return the next day with a new revelation.

Otherwise, the king would never have permitted this if Daniel had petitioned doubtfully, or if he had not testified to his hope of some secret revelation from God. He would have been rejected immediately and would have further provoked the king’s anger.

The Hebrews very commonly mention later in the narrative whatever they omit in its proper place. So, when Daniel modestly confesses his inability to satisfy the king until he has received a faithful message from the Lord, the king grants him the required time, as we will see more clearly later.