The answer is: He went mad and lived as a beast before being restored as king

Daniel 4:31-37

King Nebuchadnezzar’s dramatic turn of events in the Book of Daniel is like something straight out of a riveting play, complete with an incredible inspiring twist! Known for his power and authority, he experienced a humbling moment when pride consumed him. Imagine being at the height of power, adored and feared, just to have it all snatched away in an instant!

The king's madness was no ordinary misstep; it manifested as a command from the divine, indicating that important life lessons surrounding humility and reverence need an audience. Following a warning in a dream interpreted by Daniel, Nebuchadnezzar lost his sanity, living like an animal—a far cry from his opulence in Babylon. It’s a vivid example of the risks of hubris and forgetting one’s place in the grand design, isn’t it?

What’s fascinating is that his eventual restoration wasn't just a personal triumph but a testimony to the mercy and greatness of the divine. The very same deity he tried to dismiss whetted his appetite for greatness again. Notably, Nebuchadnezzar declares, “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and honor and glorify the King of Heaven,” showcasing his transformation.

Also, the story echoes humility amongst leaders across cultures—a timeless lesson. In fact, traditions often recount tales where kings rise and fall based on their ego and stance on compassion. So, the narrative of Nebuchadnezzar isn't just about a king’s mental collapse but a profound story about the peril and glory found in true humility!