Daniel 1:16

So the steward continued to withhold their choice food and the wine they were to drink, and he gave them vegetables instead.

Study Bible

So the steward
The term "steward" refers to the official appointed by the Babylonian king to oversee the young captives from Judah, including Daniel and his friends. In Hebrew, the word used is "sar," which can mean prince, chief, or official. This highlights the hierarchical structure of the Babylonian court and the significant responsibility placed on this steward. Historically, this reflects the organized and bureaucratic nature of the Babylonian Empire, which was known for its administrative efficiency.

continued to withhold
The phrase indicates a sustained action, suggesting that the steward consistently refrained from giving Daniel and his friends the royal provisions. This decision was not a one-time event but a continuous practice, demonstrating the steward's compliance with Daniel's request. The Hebrew root here implies a deliberate and ongoing choice, reflecting Daniel's influence and the steward's willingness to accommodate their dietary convictions.

their choice food
The "choice food" refers to the rich and luxurious diet provided by the king's table, which included meats and delicacies. In the context of ancient Near Eastern cultures, such food was often associated with wealth, status, and sometimes idolatrous practices, as it could be offered to idols before consumption. Daniel's refusal of this food underscores his commitment to maintaining ritual purity and faithfulness to God's laws, even in a foreign land.

and the wine they were to drink
Wine, a common beverage in ancient Babylon, was often used in religious rituals and could symbolize indulgence and assimilation into Babylonian culture. By abstaining from the wine, Daniel and his friends were making a statement of resistance against cultural assimilation and a commitment to their distinct identity as followers of Yahweh. This act of abstinence is a powerful testament to their faith and discipline.

and he gave them vegetables instead
The term "vegetables" in Hebrew is "zeroim," which can also mean seeds or plants. This diet was likely simpler and more in line with Jewish dietary laws. The choice of vegetables symbolizes a return to a more natural and God-honoring way of living, reminiscent of the diet in the Garden of Eden. This decision reflects a reliance on God for sustenance and a rejection of the opulence and potential defilement associated with the king's food.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Melzar
The steward appointed by the chief official to oversee Daniel and his friends during their training in Babylon.

3. Babylon
The empire that conquered Judah and took many Israelites, including Daniel, into exile.

4. The King's Table
Refers to the royal food and wine provided by King Nebuchadnezzar, which Daniel and his friends chose not to defile themselves with.

5. Vegetables and Water
The diet that Daniel and his friends requested to maintain their purity according to their faith.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Small Things
Daniel's decision to eat only vegetables and drink water demonstrates faithfulness in seemingly small matters, which God honors.

Courage to Stand Apart
Daniel and his friends showed courage by choosing a different path from their peers, reminding us to stand firm in our convictions.

God's Provision and Favor
Despite their unconventional diet, God provided for Daniel and his friends, showing that He honors those who honor Him.

Cultural Engagement with Integrity
Daniel's respectful request to Melzar shows that it is possible to engage with culture without compromising one's beliefs.

The Power of Influence
Daniel's faithfulness influenced those around him, including Melzar, highlighting the impact of a godly example.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Daniel 1:16 illustrate the importance of faithfulness in small decisions, and how can this be applied in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate courage to stand apart from cultural norms that conflict with our faith, as Daniel did?

3. How does Daniel's respectful approach to Melzar provide a model for engaging with authority figures while maintaining our convictions?

4. What are some modern-day "king's tables" that we might need to avoid to maintain our spiritual integrity?

5. How can we rely on God's provision and favor when we choose to honor Him in our decisions, as seen in Daniel's experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
This chapter outlines the dietary laws given to the Israelites, which Daniel adhered to by choosing vegetables and water over the king's food.

Romans 12:2
This verse encourages believers not to conform to the patterns of this world, similar to how Daniel and his friends chose not to conform to Babylonian customs.

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