What happensPermalink
Nebuchadnezzar takes Daniel and other young Judeans into exile and trains them for service in Babylon. Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah receive Babylonian names and education, but Daniel resolves not to defile himself with the king’s food and wine. With permission, they eat vegetables and drink water for ten days and appear healthier than the other youths. God gives them all wisdom and gives Daniel understanding of visions and dreams.
Why it mattersPermalink
God gives Judah’s king into Nebuchadnezzar’s hand, gives Daniel favor with an official, and gives the four youths wisdom. Even in exile, He remains active among His people. Daniel accepts foreign learning and royal service while keeping his allegiance to God. The reason the royal food would defile him is unstated; the emphasis falls on faithfulness within a foreign culture. His understanding prepares him for the dreams and visions that follow.
Key versePermalink
As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.