Daniel 1:14

So he consented to this and tested them for ten days.

Study Bible

So he consented
The phrase "he consented" indicates a decision made by the chief official overseeing Daniel and his friends. In the Hebrew text, the word used here is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which often means to hear or listen, but in this context, it implies agreement or compliance. This consent is significant as it shows a willingness to accommodate Daniel's request, reflecting God's providential hand in softening the hearts of those in authority. Historically, this moment underscores the tension between maintaining faithfulness to God's laws and the pressures of conforming to a foreign culture. The official's consent is a pivotal moment that allows Daniel and his friends to demonstrate their faith and God's faithfulness.

to this
The phrase "to this" refers to the specific request made by Daniel to be tested with a diet of vegetables and water instead of the royal food and wine. This request was not merely about dietary preferences but was deeply rooted in maintaining ritual purity according to Jewish law. The "this" signifies a test of faith and obedience, highlighting the importance of adhering to God's commandments even in challenging circumstances. It also reflects the broader theme of the book of Daniel, which is about remaining faithful to God amidst a pagan culture.

and tested them
The word "tested" comes from the Hebrew "נָסָה" (nasah), which means to try, prove, or put to the test. This testing period was a trial of both physical and spiritual endurance. It was an opportunity for Daniel and his friends to prove their commitment to God's laws and for God to demonstrate His power and faithfulness. The concept of testing is prevalent throughout Scripture, often used by God to refine and strengthen the faith of His people. This test was not just about physical health but was a spiritual exercise in trust and obedience.

for ten days
The "ten days" is a specific period that holds symbolic significance in the Bible. The number ten often represents completeness or a full measure of time. In this context, the ten-day period was long enough to demonstrate the effects of the diet but short enough to be a manageable test of faith. Historically, this brief period allowed for a clear demonstration of God's provision and the benefits of obedience to His laws. The successful outcome of this test would serve as a testament to God's faithfulness and the wisdom of adhering to His commandments, even in a foreign land. This period of testing is a reminder that God honors those who honor Him, providing for their needs and vindicating their faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Daniel
A young Hebrew man of noble lineage taken into Babylonian captivity. He is known for his unwavering faith and wisdom.

2. Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah
Daniel's companions, also taken into captivity. They are later known by their Babylonian names: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

3. Ashpenaz
The chief official of King Nebuchadnezzar, responsible for the training of the young captives.

4. Babylon
The empire that conquered Judah and took Daniel and his friends into captivity.

5. The Ten-Day Test
A period during which Daniel and his friends were allowed to eat only vegetables and drink water to prove their dietary choice would not diminish their health.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Small Things
Daniel's commitment to God's laws in dietary matters shows the importance of faithfulness in seemingly small decisions. This teaches us that our daily choices reflect our devotion to God.

Courage to Stand Apart
Daniel and his friends demonstrated courage by choosing a different path from their peers. This encourages us to stand firm in our convictions, even when it means being different from the world.

Trust in God's Provision
By choosing a simple diet, Daniel trusted that God would sustain him. This reminds us to rely on God's provision rather than conforming to worldly standards for success or well-being.

The Power of Testing
The ten-day test was a period of proving God's faithfulness. It teaches us that trials can be opportunities to demonstrate God's power and faithfulness in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Daniel's decision to refuse the king's food teach us about maintaining our convictions in a secular environment?

2. How can we apply the principle of "not conforming to the world" in our daily lives, as seen in Daniel's example?

3. In what ways can we demonstrate faithfulness in small decisions, and why is this important for our spiritual growth?

4. How does trusting in God's provision, as Daniel did, challenge our reliance on worldly resources or standards?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a "test" of your faith. How did it strengthen your relationship with God, and what did you learn from the experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:29
This verse discusses God's provision of plants for food, which connects to Daniel's choice of a plant-based diet.

Romans 12:2
This verse encourages believers not to conform to the world, similar to Daniel's refusal to defile himself with the king's food.

1 Corinthians 10:31
This verse speaks about doing everything for the glory of God, which aligns with Daniel's intention to honor God through his dietary choices.