What is the meaning of Daniel 5:17? In response, Daniel said to the king Daniel steps forward amid the stunned silence of Belshazzar’s banquet hall. • His immediate, fearless reply echoes earlier moments when God’s servants spoke truth to power (Acts 4:19–20; 1 Kings 22:14). • Daniel’s calm assurance flows from decades of faithfulness; he has interpreted dreams for Nebuchadnezzar before (Daniel 2:26–28) and knows the same God still speaks. • The scene reminds us that when earthly leaders tremble, God’s people can stand firm (Psalm 46:1–2). You may keep your gifts for yourself Daniel refuses the king’s lavish offer—purple robes, a gold chain, third-in-command status (Daniel 5:7). • By declining, he shows that divine revelation is not for sale (2 Kings 5:16; Acts 8:20). • His detachment from wealth highlights a heart fixed on God, not on earthly reward (Proverbs 15:16; Matthew 6:24). • The contrast: Belshazzar thinks power is bought; Daniel knows authority comes from the Lord (Psalm 75:6–7). and give your rewards to someone else Daniel presses the point: even transfer the honors elsewhere. • This underlines the emptiness of Babylonian accolades—soon the empire will fall (Daniel 5:30–31). • It recalls Mordecai’s later exaltation in Persia, when authority is shifted to the righteous (Esther 8:15), showing God can redirect human honors as He wills. • Daniel’s attitude pictures New-Testament teaching: seek praise from God, not men (John 5:44). Nevertheless, I will read the inscription for the king Refusal of gifts does not cancel service; Daniel still intends to speak God’s word. • “Nevertheless” stresses obedience over personal gain (Jeremiah 20:9). • He agrees to “read” first, ensuring the king hears the exact words before their meaning—God’s message is untouched by Babylonian spin (Isaiah 55:11). • Daniel models servant leadership: truth delivered freely, yet boldly (2 Timothy 4:2). and interpret it for him Reading alone is not enough; understanding must follow. • God grants Daniel the interpretation, as before with dreams (Daniel 2:19–23). • The pattern—revelation, then explanation—foreshadows Christ opening the Scriptures to His disciples (Luke 24:27, 45). • Daniel’s promise sets the stage for the verdict of “MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN,” proving the Most High rules over kingdoms (Daniel 4:17). summary Daniel 5:17 showcases a servant of God who cannot be bought, will not be silent, and trusts the Lord above all earthly powers. By refusing Belshazzar’s gifts yet faithfully proclaiming God’s message, Daniel exemplifies integrity, courage, and unwavering allegiance to the One who weighs kingdoms and hearts alike. |
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