Daniel 1

Read Daniel 1

Helpful Background Information: 

• The book of Daniel begins with a scene of defeat: Jerusalem has fallen to Babylon, and young Israelites from noble families have been taken into exile. Among these are Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, who soon receive new Babylonian names: Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. The king of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar, plans to re-educate these young men in the language, literature, and worldview of Babylon, turning them into loyal servants of the empire. 

• However, in verse 8, we read that “Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself.” This moment is key. The food and wine offered by the king may have been ritually unclean, offered to idols, or simply symbolic of full submission to Babylonian culture. Either way, Daniel drew a line. He found a respectful way to request a different diet, trusting that God would honor their faithfulness, and God did. 

Reflection Questions: 

• Are there areas of your life where you feel like an outsider because of your faith? What would it look like to honor God there?

• Verse 8 says Daniel “resolved” not to defile himself. Are there any areas where you need to make a similar resolution before God?

• Daniel didn’t stand alone. He had three friends who stood with him. Who are your “Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah” (people who help you stay faithful)?