Daniel 5:11
There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of thy father light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, was found in him; whom the king Nebuchadnezzar thy father, the king, I say, thy father, made master of the magicians, astrologers, Chaldeans, and soothsayers;
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Daniel's apparent retirement or marginalization under Belshazzar's co-regency (Nabonidus's reign) meant the current king didn't know him personally, though he was well-known to the previous generation. This often happens in governmental transitions: new administrations sideline previous advisors. The queen mother's institutional memory preserved knowledge of Daniel's abilities. Her description emphasizes his proven reliability—not untested claims but documented history under Nebuchadnezzar. This pattern appears throughout Scripture: God's faithful servants may face seasons of obscurity before being called back for crucial roles (Moses, David, Paul). Divine preparation often includes periods of waiting and apparent uselessness before strategic deployment.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Daniel's period of marginalization followed by sudden recall teach about God's timing and providence?
- How does proven faithfulness in previous seasons establish credibility for future ministry?
- Why might God allow His servants to be sidelined before bringing them forward at crucial moments?
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Analysis & Commentary
The queen describes Daniel's credentials: 'There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of thy father light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, was found in him.' She recounts Nebuchadnezzar's recognition of Daniel's unique abilities, his appointment as 'master of the magicians, astrologers, Chaldeans, and soothsayers.' The phrase 'spirit of the holy gods' echoes chapter 4:8-9, 18—recognizing supernatural enablement though using polytheistic terminology. The description emphasizes Daniel's proven track record: Nebuchadnezzar himself (thy father) had identified and elevated him. This recommendation is powerful: the great king Nebuchadnezzar trusted Daniel; surely Belshazzar should too. The reference to 'light and understanding and wisdom' uses biblical terminology for divine illumination—Daniel possessed what the current wise men lacked.