Daniel

Daniel, a key figure in the Bible, is known for his unwavering faith in God during his life in exile and his ability to interpret dreams and visions. His story, recorded in the Book of Daniel, spans his captivity in Babylon to his influence as a high-ranking official under multiple kings.

Daniel was among the young nobles taken captive to Babylon after King Nebuchadnezzar conquered Jerusalem. Along with his friends Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (renamed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego), Daniel was trained in Babylonian culture and language to serve in the royal court. Despite pressure to conform, he remained faithful to God, refusing to defile himself with royal food and wine. His commitment led God to grant him wisdom and favor.

Daniel first gained prominence by interpreting Nebuchadnezzar’s troubling dream about a statue representing future kingdoms. He revealed the dream’s meaning, emphasizing God’s sovereignty over human history, and was promoted to a high position in the kingdom.

Daniel’s faith was further demonstrated when his friends were thrown into a fiery furnace for refusing to worship a golden idol. God miraculously delivered them, and Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged God’s power. Later, Daniel interpreted another dream for Nebuchadnezzar and foretold the king’s period of madness, which came true, leading the king to praise God’s dominion.

Under King Darius, Daniel’s integrity led to his appointment as one of the highest officials. Jealous rivals manipulated Darius into issuing a decree forbidding prayer to anyone but the king. Daniel continued praying to God and was thrown into a lions’ den. God protected him, and Darius honored the God of Daniel.

Daniel also received visions of future events, including the rise and fall of empires, the coming of the Messiah, and end-times prophecies. These visions, full of symbolic imagery, demonstrate God’s control over history and His ultimate plan for redemption.

Briton Riviere - Daniel in the Lions Den

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