Daniel 1:3-4 And the king spoke to Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel… It was like the proud spirit of the King to surround himself with all spendour of talent that should throw additional glory on himself and on his throne. Accordingly directions to select candidates for the public service were given to Aspenaz, the chief of the eunuchs. Of him we know nothing more than is stated in the first chapter of the Book of Daniel. He belonged to a class always existing in Oriental courts, often high in royal favour, of large influence, authority and power. This individual appears to have been marked by much wisdom, considerate care, a gracious bearing, and courtly courtesy. That he regarded Daniel with "favour and tender love," should be his passport to our esteem. The King prescribed the qualifications of the candidates. 1. Some of these were physical. Vigour and beauty were required. Probably Daniel was tall, strong, well-built, handsome. 2. The King required knowledge. "Skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science." They were to be generally intelligent, and in particular, acquainted with the science of their country, namely — music, architecture, natural history, agriculture, morals, theology, and prophecy. There is reason to believe that in many of these departments the Hebrews were in advance of the Babylonians. The King proposed to turn their superiority to account. He was evidently a broad-minded and sagacious man. 3. The next requirement was what we understand by "capacity." "Such as had ability in them to stand in the King's palace." "Ability" is here the Hebrew word for strength, power, resource of almost any kind. The King required general capacity, not overlooking moral qualifications. 4. They were to be teachable. Without that spirit, these tall, handsome men would be but as ornamental logs of wood in the palace of the King. Present attainment in knowledge and in moral culture is as nothing compared with the capacity of receiving more, and power to do more in the future. (H. T. Robjohns, B.A.) Parallel Verses KJV: And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes; |
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