Daniel 1:17 - Printer Friendly

ESV: 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.

NIV: To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds.

NASB: And as for these four youths, God gave them knowledge and intelligence in every kind of literature and expertise; Daniel even understood all kinds of visions and dreams.

CSB: God gave these four young men knowledge and understanding in every kind of literature and wisdom. Daniel also understood visions and dreams of every kind.

NLT: God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meanings of visions and dreams.

KJV: As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.

NKJV: As for these four young men, God gave them knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.

The four "youths" mentioned are among those captured when Nebuchadnezzar defeated Judah (Daniel 1:1–2). Children of royal families were selected for their appearance and intellect and placed in a reeducation program (Daniel 1:3–5). The four named in this chapter (Daniel 1:6–7) have already demonstrated willingness to maintain their faith despite intense pressure (Daniel 1:8–16). Based on the context of this chapter, it seems not all the captured Jewish youths were so committed.

While Nebuchadnezzar intended to make these boys into assets for his royal court, the Lord God was ultimately in control of their destiny. All four are credited with impressive skills in logic, insight, academia, and intellect—as given to them by God. Daniel was gifted further with the ability to interpret dreams and visions. Chaldean culture was renowned for those who claimed the ability to interpret dreams. Yet they will soon prove unable to provide King Nebuchadnezzar with assistance about a troubling dream (Daniel 2:1–11). As Daniel's future unfolded, he became known as a reliable interpreter of visions.

Daniel's ability is called out for special notice because it is an uncommon gift. In Old Testament times God often revealed His will through dreams and visions, but now He has revealed His will through His Son and His Word (Hebrews 1:1–2; 2 Timothy 3:16–17). Cults have sprung up as their founders claimed to receive special revelation through a dream or vision, but Christianity rests on the firm foundation of Scripture (1 Corinthians 4:6).

Daniel 1:17–21 completes an introduction to Daniel's role in advising the kings of Babylon. Because Daniel and his three friends honored the Lord, they were blessed with exceptional skills and abilities in their roles. Their extraordinary value will factor into later incidents where the Hebrew captives must decide between their own lives or faithfulness to God (Daniel 3; 6).

When Daniel was young, Babylon conquered Jerusalem and took many of its treasures and people back to their land. Daniel was chosen to become an advisor due to his good looks and bright mind. Along with other boys, he was educated and given a Babylonian name. Daniel and several friends demonstrate faithfulness to God by avoiding foods that might be unclean. They also excel in their roles. This leads Daniel to become an important advisor regarding dreams and visions, as described starting in chapter 2.

Daniel was taken captive when Babylon conquered the nation of Israel. The first chapter of the book establishes his history, his level of natural talent, and the depth of his faith. This is followed by a series of prophetic interpretations tied to Gentile nations in chapters 2—7. Chapters 8—12 focus on prophecies more closely related to the nation of Israel. Many of these details are restated or expanded in the book of Revelation.

The book of Daniel contains famous Old Testament stories and prophecies. Daniel was taken from the Israelite people and made an advisor for a conquering empire. He demonstrates faithfulness and wisdom during many years serving in this role. Though Daniel does not deliver a public message, Jesus refers to him as a "prophet" (Matthew 24:15). The first portion of the book mostly describes Daniel's interpretations of dreams and other events. The second portion looks ahead to the end times. Daniel is classified in English Bibles as a "major" prophet, meaning the book is relatively long and the content has broad implications. The book of Revelation echoes and expands on many of the same themes.