Topical Bible: Daniel: A Jewish Captive, Also Called Belteshazzar: Devoutness of

◄ Daniel: A Jewish Captive, Also Called Belteshazzar: Devoutness of ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Daniel, a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, is renowned for his unwavering devotion to God despite facing numerous challenges as a Jewish captive in Babylon. His life and actions are chronicled in the Book of Daniel, which provides a compelling narrative of faith, integrity, and divine wisdom.

Early Life and Captivity

Daniel was among the young men of noble or royal lineage taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon during the siege of Jerusalem around 605 B.C. (Daniel 1:1-3). He was selected for his intelligence and potential to serve in the king's court. Renamed Belteshazzar by the Babylonians, Daniel was immersed in a foreign culture and subjected to the king's training program, which included learning the language and literature of the Chaldeans (Daniel 1:4-7).

Devoutness and Dietary Faithfulness

One of the earliest demonstrations of Daniel's devoutness is his refusal to defile himself with the royal food and wine, which were likely offered to idols. Instead, he requested a diet of vegetables and water. Daniel 1:8 states, "But Daniel resolved in his heart that he would not defile himself with the king’s food or with the wine he drank." His commitment to God's laws was rewarded with divine favor, as he and his companions appeared healthier than those who partook of the royal provisions (Daniel 1:15-16).

Wisdom and Interpretation of Dreams

Daniel's devoutness is further exemplified through his reliance on God for wisdom and understanding. When King Nebuchadnezzar demanded the interpretation of his troubling dream, Daniel sought God's mercy through prayer. God revealed the dream and its meaning to Daniel in a vision, leading him to praise God for His wisdom and power (Daniel 2:19-23). Daniel's ability to interpret the dream not only saved the lives of the wise men of Babylon but also elevated him to a position of high honor in the king's court (Daniel 2:46-49).

Faithfulness in Prayer

Daniel's commitment to prayer is another testament to his devoutness. Despite a decree that prohibited prayer to any god or man other than King Darius, Daniel continued his practice of praying three times a day with his windows open toward Jerusalem (Daniel 6:10). His steadfastness in prayer led to his being cast into the lions' den, yet God delivered him unharmed, demonstrating His power and faithfulness to those who are devoted to Him (Daniel 6:22-23).

Prophetic Visions and Revelations

Throughout his life, Daniel received numerous visions and revelations concerning the future of Israel and the coming of God's kingdom. His devoutness and humility are evident in his response to these revelations, as he consistently sought understanding and interceded for his people (Daniel 9:3-19). Daniel's prophecies, including the vision of the seventy weeks, have been the subject of extensive theological study and are considered foundational to eschatological teachings.

Legacy of Devoutness

Daniel's life serves as a powerful example of devoutness in the face of adversity. His unwavering faith, commitment to God's laws, and dedication to prayer and intercession highlight the virtues of a life devoted to God. Daniel's account continues to inspire believers to remain faithful and steadfast, trusting in God's sovereignty and provision.

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Daniel 2:18
That they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret; that Daniel and his fellows should not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon.
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Daniel 6:1
It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom;
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Daniel 9:1
In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes, which was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans;
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Daniel 10:1
In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a thing was revealed to Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar; and the thing was true, but the time appointed was long: and he understood the thing, and had understanding of the vision.
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Daniel 12:1
And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which stands for the children of your people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time your people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.
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Ezekiel 14:14
Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness, said the Lord GOD.
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