~ The Structure of the Aramaic Chapters of Daniel ~

Daniel chapters 2 though 7 are written in Aramaic rather than Hebrew, and they show a specific literary order, called a "chiasm" or chiastic structure, according to the theme of related chapters (possibly for easier memorization). There is a forward, then back progression of themes in an A-B-C-C-B-A order.

Thus:

A. Chapter 2 is prophecy about the rise and fall of kingdoms.

 B. Chapter 3 is narrative about the persecution of Daniel's friends.

  C. Chapter 4 is prophecy about the fall of the King, Nebuchadnezzar (and his restoration).

  C. Chapter 5 is prophecy about the fall of the King, Belshazzar (and his destruction).

 B. Chapter 6 is narrative about the persecution of Daniel.

A. Chapter 7 is prophecy about the rise and fall of kingdoms.

                  (from "Daniel, A Reader's Guide" by Wm. H. Shea).