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

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

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Daniel, a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, is renowned for his wisdom and unwavering faith in God. Taken captive during the Babylonian exile, Daniel was among the young men of noble or royal lineage selected to serve in the court of King Nebuchadnezzar. His Hebrew name, Daniel, means "God is my judge," while his Babylonian name, Belteshazzar, reflects the cultural assimilation efforts of the Babylonians.

Early Life and Captivity

Daniel was taken to Babylon as a young man, likely during the first deportation in 605 B.C. He was chosen for his intellect and potential, as described in Daniel 1:4, which notes that he was "without blemish, handsome, gifted in all wisdom, knowledgeable, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king’s palace." Despite the pressures to conform to Babylonian culture, Daniel remained steadfast in his faith, refusing to defile himself with the royal food and wine (Daniel 1:8).

Divine Wisdom and Interpretation of Dreams

Daniel's wisdom is most prominently displayed through his God-given ability to interpret dreams and visions. In Daniel 2, King Nebuchadnezzar is troubled by a dream that none of his wise men can interpret. Daniel, after seeking God's mercy, is granted the wisdom to reveal and interpret the dream, which foretells the rise and fall of empires. Daniel 2:20-21 records his praise to God: "Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, for wisdom and power belong to Him. He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them."

Service Under Multiple Kings

Daniel's wisdom and integrity earned him high positions under several rulers, including Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, Darius, and Cyrus. In Daniel 5, during the reign of Belshazzar, Daniel interprets the mysterious writing on the wall, predicting the fall of Babylon. His ability to discern and communicate divine messages underscores his role as a prophet and a wise counselor.

The Lion's Den and Continued Faithfulness

Daniel's wisdom is also evident in his unwavering commitment to God, even in the face of persecution. In Daniel 6, under King Darius, Daniel's refusal to cease praying to God leads to his being thrown into the lion's den. His deliverance, as described in Daniel 6:22 , is attributed to his faith: "My God sent His angel and shut the mouths of the lions, so that they have not hurt me, because I was found innocent before Him."

Visions and Prophecies

Daniel's wisdom extends to his prophetic visions, which reveal future events and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. The visions in Daniel 7-12 provide a detailed panorama of history and eschatology, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the eventual establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Legacy of Wisdom

Daniel's life and writings have left a profound impact on both Jewish and Christian traditions. His wisdom, characterized by a deep reliance on God, serves as a model of faithfulness and integrity. Daniel's account illustrates the power of divine wisdom to influence and transform even the most challenging circumstances.

Nave's Topical Index

Daniel 1:17
As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.
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Ezekiel 28:3
Behold, you are wiser than Daniel; there is no secret that they can hide from you:
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Library

The Historical Books.
... the Chaldeans, and the people carried captive to Babylon ... continues the history of
the Jewish people after ... with the seventy prophetic weeks of Daniel, which are ...
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