The answer is: Kingdoms of the world

Daniel 2:36-42

In the Book of Daniel, the vivid imagery of Nebuchadnezzar's dream sculpture—comprised of various metals—paints a powerful picture of earthly kingdoms. This colossal statue reveals the evolution of empires, with each metal symbolizing a different kingdom's might and duration. The head of gold represents Babylon and is a testament to its splendor and wealth, fitting for the mighty empire that Daniel was living in.

Interestingly, as we move down the statue, the silver torso stands for the next empire – the Medo-Persian unity, known for its vast reach and bureaucratic structure. The bronze that twinkles at the mid-section symbolizes the expansion and breadth of Greece, unifying many lands under Alexander's ambitious rule. Then we encounter the iron legs, suggesting the strength and ferocity of Rome, which consolidated vast regions under one rule. Finally, the feet—crafted from iron mingled with clay—point to a more fragmented and unstable last empire of divided nations and alliances.

What's particularly fascinating here is that while tempting to zero in on just these empires, the overall arc is a reminder of the transient nature of earthly powers. They'll rise and fall, but the underlying message involves the shifting of authority—greater armies might conquer kingdoms, but it’s the wisdom and ethics of governance that stand the test of time.

Moreover, this vision strikes a resonant note throughout history, reminding us that all empires, no matter their grandeur, must reckon with eventual change.