What does Daniel 2:42 mean?

Each part of the statue seen in Nebuchadnezzar's dream (Daniel 2:1–3) symbolized a nation; this predicted the future of the middle east (Daniel 2:31–35). The golden head was Babylon (Daniel 2:36–38). Knowing which nations were predicted by the other portions is possible, now, through the hindsight of history. The silver chest and arms represent the Medo-Persian Empire. The bronze midsection was Greece (Daniel 2:39). The iron legs and feet were Rome (Daniel 2:40–41). The feet and toes being made of both iron and clay—two materials that do not meld—highlights the nation's division. Rome was both strong iron and weak clay. The description in this verse further notes the inclusion of brittle clay among the iron, further weakening it.

Most commentators suggest the toes of the statue are meant to represent ten kings ruling the territory of the Roman Empire. This will be part of Daniel's prediction later in this book (Daniel 7:24–27). However, the toes are not mentioned as individual parts here in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. As far as Daniel's dream is concerned, the toes may represent further division and weakness, but they are not references to the end times—yet.

Certain interpretations of the tribulation period suggest a revived Roman Empire will emerge. Revelation 13:1 refers to ten horns that protrude from the head of the beast, presumably the head of the revived Roman Empire. These ten horns are equivalent to the ten toes of the statue of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, but not necessarily explained there. Revelation 17:12 refers specifically to ten kings who share authority with "the beast" for a brief time in the tribulation period. Ultimately, they will hand their power and territories over to the beast. The emergence of these ten kings and their kingdoms awaits the time when Christ comes in the air to rapture His church (1 Thessalonians 4:13–17).