Daniel
A righteous and wise figure in Babylonian exile.
Daniel is a figure named in several Old Testament books, including the prophetic book of Ezekiel and the narrative book of Daniel. In Ezekiel, Daniel is mentioned alongside Noah and Job as a paragon of righteousness (Ezekiel 14:14, 20), and is also used as a benchmark for wisdom (Ezekiel 28:3). In the book of Daniel, he is introduced as one of the children of Judah taken into Babylonian captivity (Daniel 1:6), given the Babylonian name Belteshazzar (Daniel 1:7), and noted for his resolve not to defile himself with the king's food (Daniel 1:8). Note: This Daniel is a different individual from David's son Daniel listed in 1 Chronicles 3:1.
Quick Facts
- Given name belteshazzar
- Daniel 1:7
- Interpreted nebuchadnezzar's dream
- Daniel 2:24-27
- Worshipped by king nebuchadnezzar
- Daniel 2:46
Lore & Background
In the book of Daniel, Daniel is introduced as one of four young men from Judah taken to serve in the court of King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 1:6). He is given the Babylonian name Belteshazzar (Daniel 1:7) and immediately distinguishes himself by refusing the king's rich food and wine, choosing instead a diet that would not defile him (Daniel 1:8). God grants him favor with the prince of the eunuchs (Daniel 1:9), and later gives Daniel and his companions knowledge and skill, with Daniel specifically receiving understanding in all visions and dreams (Daniel 1:17). When the king decrees the death of all wise men for failing to interpret his dream, Daniel intervenes with wisdom (Daniel 2:14-16), gathers his companions to pray for mercy (Daniel 2:17-18), and receives the secret in a night vision (Daniel 2:19). He then successfully interprets the dream for the king (Daniel 2:24-27), leading Nebuchadnezzar to worship Daniel and offer him oblations (Daniel 2:46).
Reader's Guide
The passages portray Daniel as a figure of exceptional righteousness and wisdom, recognized even by God and foreign kings. In Ezekiel, he is grouped with Noah and Job as a man whose righteousness could only save himself, not others, in a time of judgment (Ezekiel 14:14, 20). Ezekiel 28:3 uses Daniel as the standard of wisdom, saying no secret is hidden from him. In the book of Daniel, his character is shown through his faithful adherence to Jewish dietary laws despite pressure (Daniel 1:8), his reliance on prayer and his companions (Daniel 2:17-18), and his boldness in approaching the king (Daniel 2:16, 24). God actively works on his behalf, giving him favor (Daniel 1:9) and revealing secrets (Daniel 2:19). The king's worship of Daniel (Daniel 2:46) underscores the high regard he earned.
Elsewhere in Figures of Scripture
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