TRV
Translation
King James Version
Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,
Complete Jewish Bible
Then Dani'el said to the guard whom the chief officer had put in charge of Dani'el, Hananyah, Misha'el and 'Azaryah,
Berean Standard Bible
Then Daniel said to the steward whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,
American Standard Version
Then said Daniel to the steward whom the prince of the eunuchs had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah:
World English Bible Messianic
Then Daniel said to the steward whom the prince of the eunuchs had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then sayd Daniel to Melzar, whome the chiefe of the Eunuches had set ouer Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,
Young's Literal Translation
And Daniel saith unto the Meltzar, whom the chief of the eunuchs hath appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,
Study This Verse
Commentary on Daniel 1 verses 8–16
8 ¶ But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
9 Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs.
10 And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.
11 Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,
12 Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.
13 Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the children that eat of the portion of the king's meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants.
14 So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days.
15 And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king's meat.
16 Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse.
We observe here, very much to our satisfaction,
I. That Daniel was a favourite with the prince of the eunuchs (Dan 1:9), as Joseph was with the keeper of the prison; he had a tender love for him. No doubt Daniel deserved it, and recommended himself by his ingenuity and sweetness of temper (he was greatly beloved, Dan 9:23); and yet it is said here that it was God that brought him into favour with the prince of the eunuchs, for every one does not meet with acceptance according to his merits. Note, The interest which we think we make for ourselves we must acknowledge to be God's gift, and must ascribe to him the glory of it. Whoever are in favour, it is God that has brought them into favour; and it is by him that they find good understanding. Herein was again verified That work (Psa 106:46), He made them to be pitied of all those that carried them captives. Let young ones know that the way to be acceptable is to be tractable and dutiful.
II. That Daniel was still firm to his religion. They had changed his name, but they could not change his nature. Whatever they pleased to call him, he still retained the spirit of an Israelite indeed. He would apply his mind as closely as any of them to his books, and took pains to make himself master of the learning and tongue of the Chaldeans, but he was resolved that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, he would not meddle with it, nor with the wine which he drank, Dan 1:8. And having communicated his purpose, with the reasons of it, to his fellows, they concurred in the same resolution, as appears, Dan 1:11. This was not out of sullenness, or peevishness, or a spirit of contradiction, but from a principle of conscience. Perhaps it was not in itself unlawful for them to eat of the king's meat or to drink of his wine. But, 1. They were scrupulous concerning the meat, lest it should be sinful. Sometimes such meat would be set before them as was expressly forbidden by their law, as swine's flesh; or they were afraid lest it should have been offered in sacrifice to an idol, or blessed in the name of an idol. The Jews were distinguished from other nations very much by their meats (Lev 11:45, Lev 11:46), and these pious young men, being in a strange country, thought themselves obliged to keep up the honour of their being a peculiar people. Though they could not keep up their dignity as princes, they would not lose it as Israelites; for on that they most valued themselves. Note, When God's people are in Babylon they have need to take special care that they partake not in her sins. Providence seemed to lay this meat before them; being captives they must eat what they could get and must not disoblige their masters; yet, if the command be against it, they must abide by that. Though Providence says, Kill and eat, conscience says, Not so, Lord, for nothing common or unclean has come into my mouth. 2. They were jealous over themselves, lest, though it should not be sinful in itself, it should be an occasion of sin to them, lest, by indulging their appetites with these dainties, they should grow sinful, voluptuous, and in love with the pleasures of Babylon. They had learned David's prayer, Let me not eat of their dainties (Psa 141:4), and Solomon's precept, Be not desirous of dainties, for they are deceitful meat (Pro 23:3), and accordingly they form their resolution. Note, It is very much the praise of all, and especially of young people, to be dead to the delights of sense, not to covet them, not to relish them, but to look upon them with indifference. Those that would excel in wisdom and piety must learn betimes to keep under the body and bring it into subjection. 3. However, they thought it unseasonable now, when Jerusalem was in distress, and they themselves were in captivity. They had no heart to drink wine in bowls, so much were they grieved for the affliction of Joseph. Though they had royal blood in their veins, yet they did not think it proper to have royal dainties in their mouths when they were thus brought low. Note, It becomes us to be humble under humbling providences. Call me not Naomi; call me Marah. See the benefit of affliction; by the account Jeremiah gives of the princes and great men now at Jerusalem it appears that they were very corrupt and wicked, and defiled themselves with things offered to idols, while these young gentlemen that were in captivity would not defile themselves, no, not with their portion of the king's meat. How much better is it with those that retain their integrity in the depths of affliction than with those that retain their iniquity in the heights of prosperity! Observe, The great thing that Daniel avoided was defiling himself with the pollutions of sin; that is the thing we should be more afraid of than of any outward trouble. Daniel, having taken up this resolution, requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself, not only that he might not be compelled to do it, but that he might not be tempted to do it, that the bait might not be laid before him, that he might not see the portion appointed him of the king's meat, nor look upon the wine when it was red. It will be easier to keep the temptation at a distance than to suffer it to come near and then be forced to put a knife to our throat. Note, We cannot better improve our interest in any with whom we have found favour than by making use of them to keep us from sin.
III. That God wonderfully owned him herein. When Daniel requested that he might have none of the king's meat or wine set before him the prince of the eunuchs objected that, if he and his fellows were not found in as good case as any of their companions, he should be in danger of having anger and of losing his head, Dan 1:10. Daniel, to satisfy him that there would be no danger of any bad consequence, desires the matter might be put to a trial. He applies himself further to the under-officer, Melzar, or the steward: "Prove us for ten days; during that time let us have nothing but pulse to eat, nothing but herbs and fruits, or parched peas or lentils, and nothing but water to drink, and see how we can live upon that, and proceed accordingly," Dan 1:13. People will not believe the benefit of abstemiousness and a spare diet, nor how much it contributes to the health of the body, unless they try it. Trial was accordingly made. Daniel and his fellows lived for ten days upon pulse and water, hard fare for young men of genteel extraction and education, and which one would rather expect they should have indented against than petitioned for; but at the end of the ten days they were compared with the other children, and were found fairer and fatter in flesh, of a more healthful look and better complexion, than all those who did eat the portion of the king's meat, Dan 1:15. This was in part a natural effect of their temperance, but it must be ascribed to the special blessing of God, which will make a little to go a great way, a dinner of herbs better than a stalled ox. By this it appears that man lives not by bread alone; pulse and water shall be the most nourishing food if God speak the word. See what it is to keep ourselves pure from the pollutions of sin; it is the way to have that comfort and satisfaction which will be health to the navel and marrow to the bones, while the pleasures of sin are rottenness to the bones.
IV. That his master countenanced him. The steward did not force them to eat against their consciences, but, as they desired, gave them pulse and water (Dan 1:16), the pleasures of which they enjoyed, and we have reason to think were not envied the enjoyment. Here is a great example of temperance and contentment with mean things; and (as Epicurus said) "he that lives according to nature will never be poor, but he that lives according to opinion will never be rich." This wonderful abstemiousness of these young men in the days of their youth contributed to the fitting of them, 1. For their eminent services. Hereby they kept their minds clear and unclouded, and fit for contemplation, and saved for the best employments a great deal both of time and thought; and thus they prevented those diseases which indispose men for the business of age that owe their rise to the intemperances of youth. 2. For their eminent sufferings. Those that had thus inured themselves to hardship, and lived a life of self-denial and mortification, could the more easily venture upon the fiery furnace and the den of lions, rather than sin against God.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 8–16. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Daniel 1:11 records a pivotal moment where Daniel, having resolved to maintain his spiritual integrity, initiates a diplomatic conversation with Melzar, the Babylonian steward appointed over him and his three companions, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. This verse highlights Daniel's proactive wisdom and faith, setting the stage for a practical test of his commitment to God's laws within the challenging environment of the Babylonian court, demonstrating his reliance on divine favor and strategic discernment rather than confrontational defiance.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs Characterization and Foreshadowing. Through Characterization, Daniel is presented as a man of both unwavering conviction and profound wisdom. His proactive "said" (Hebrew, ʼâmar') to Melzar, rather than a passive refusal or open defiance, reveals his strategic thinking and diplomatic skill. He is not merely a recipient of circumstances but an agent of change, seeking a solution that honors God without unnecessarily provoking conflict or jeopardizing the lives of his friends. This subtle portrayal sets him apart as a wise and trustworthy figure early in the narrative, establishing his integrity and resourcefulness. Furthermore, the verse functions as Foreshadowing, hinting at the greater tests and divine interventions that will follow. Daniel's successful negotiation here, enabled by divine favor, sets a precedent for how God will work through him and his companions in future, more perilous situations, such as the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:19-30) and the lions' den (Daniel 6:16-23). The seemingly small act of seeking a dietary alternative becomes a microcosm of their larger journey of faith and God's faithfulness in the face of overwhelming odds.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 1:11 serves as a profound illustration of faithful obedience coupled with practical wisdom. It demonstrates that commitment to God's principles does not always necessitate confrontational defiance but can involve prayerful discernment and diplomatic engagement with authority. Daniel's approach, seeking a way to honor God without directly violating the king's command, highlights the biblical call to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves," as taught by Jesus in Matthew 10:16. This verse also subtly introduces the theme of divine favor, as Daniel's ability to even present his case, and Melzar's receptiveness, are attributed to God's providential hand working behind the scenes, preparing the way for His people to stand firm in their convictions. It underscores that God honors those who honor Him, often by opening doors of opportunity and granting favor in unexpected places.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 1:11 provides a powerful blueprint for navigating the complexities of living out one's faith in a pluralistic or even hostile environment. Daniel's example teaches us that integrity is not merely about saying "no" to compromise, but also about proactively seeking wise and respectful solutions that honor God while engaging with the world around us. His approach reminds us that faithfulness in seemingly small, daily decisions can pave the way for God's greater purposes to unfold. We are called to cultivate both unwavering conviction and discerning wisdom, trusting that God will open doors and provide the means for us to live righteously, even when circumstances seem overwhelmingly against us. This verse encourages us to consider how we can uphold our values with grace and strategic intelligence, rather than defaulting to either passive conformity or aggressive defiance. It challenges us to pray for wisdom, seek God's favor, and act with courage and diplomacy in our spheres of influence.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who was Melzar, and why is his role significant?
Answer: Melzar (H4453, meltsâr) is generally understood not as a personal name but as a title, likely meaning "steward," "inspector," or "overseer of provisions." He was the specific official whom the "prince of the eunuchs" (Ashpenaz, mentioned in Daniel 1:3) had appointed to oversee Daniel and his three friends. His role is significant because he was directly responsible for their daily care and adherence to the king's dietary regimen. Daniel's decision to approach Melzar directly, rather than a higher authority or a lesser servant, demonstrates his wisdom and respect for the established hierarchy. Melzar's willingness to listen and agree to Daniel's request, as seen in Daniel 1:14, was crucial for the success of Daniel's plan and highlights God's providential hand in granting Daniel favor (Daniel 1:9).
Why was Daniel's request regarding food and wine so significant?
Answer: Daniel's request was significant for several reasons beyond mere dietary preference. Firstly, the king's food and wine likely included items forbidden by Mosaic law (e.g., non-kosher meats) or food that had been offered to idols, which would defile a devout Jew. By purposing in his heart not to defile himself (Daniel 1:8), Daniel was making a stand for his spiritual and religious integrity in a pagan land. Secondly, partaking in the king's provisions was a common practice for integrating and indoctrinating conquered peoples into the culture and religion of the conquering empire. Refusing the king's food was a subtle but profound act of resistance against cultural assimilation and an affirmation of his allegiance to God. Thirdly, it was a high-stakes request; defying the king's decree could have resulted in severe punishment, even death, for Daniel and his friends. Their faithfulness in this "small" matter set the precedent for their future integrity and God's miraculous deliverance in greater tests, such as the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:19-30) and the lions' den (Daniel 6:16-23).
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel's faithful obedience and diplomatic wisdom in Daniel 1:11, coupled with God's providential favor, powerfully foreshadow the ultimate obedience and favor found in Jesus Christ. Just as Daniel purposed in his heart not to defile himself, Jesus, the perfect Son of God, lived a life of absolute purity and unwavering obedience to His Father's will, even unto death on the cross, as described in Philippians 2:8. While Daniel navigated the challenges of a pagan court, Jesus faced the ultimate temptation in the wilderness, resisting every attempt of the adversary to compromise His mission and calling, as recorded in Matthew 4:1-11. Daniel's request for an alternative diet, leading to a visible demonstration of God's blessing and superior health, points to Christ as the true spiritual sustenance, the "bread of life" who satisfies all hunger and thirst for righteousness, as He Himself declared in John 6:35. Moreover, the divine favor granted to Daniel, allowing him to thrive and be exalted in a hostile environment, prefigures the boundless grace and favor God bestows upon all who are "in Christ," making them accepted in the Beloved, as articulated in Ephesians 1:6. Ultimately, Daniel's story of integrity and deliverance in Babylon finds its complete fulfillment in Christ, who perfectly embodies faithfulness, wisdom, and divine favor, securing eternal deliverance and true spiritual nourishment for all who believe in Him, for He is our sympathetic High Priest who was tempted in every way, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15).