Daniel 1:20

And in all matters of wisdom [and] understanding, that the king enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians [and] astrologers that [were] in all his realm.

And in all matters {H1697} of wisdom {H2451} and understanding {H998}, that the king {H4428} enquired {H1245} of them, he found {H4672} them ten times {H6235} better {H3027} than all the magicians {H2748} and astrologers {H825} that were in all his realm {H4438}.

and in all matters requiring wisdom and understanding, whenever the king consulted them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and exorcists in his entire kingdom.

In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king consulted them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom.

And in every matter of wisdom and understanding, concerning which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his realm.

Commentary

Daniel 1:20 concludes the first chapter by highlighting the exceptional wisdom and understanding of Daniel and his three companions (Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, later known as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego). This verse showcases their remarkable intellectual and spiritual superiority within the sophisticated Babylonian court of King Nebuchadnezzar.

Context

Following their resolve not to defile themselves with the king's rich food and wine, Daniel and his friends were granted favor and distinction by God. After a ten-day test (Daniel 1:12-15), their countenances appeared fairer and fatter than those who ate the king's provisions. Consequently, the steward allowed them to continue their vegetarian diet. This verse describes the ultimate outcome of their faithfulness: when brought before King Nebuchadnezzar for examination, their abilities far surpassed those of all the kingdom's established wise men.

Key Themes

  • Divine Empowerment: The exceptional wisdom and understanding displayed by Daniel and his friends was not merely human intellect but a direct, supernatural gift from God. This emphasizes that true, profound wisdom comes from a divine source, not from worldly systems or occult practices like those of the Babylonian magicians and astrologers.
  • Superiority of God's Wisdom: The "ten times better" comparison is a stark contrast between the limited, often deceptive, knowledge of the pagan wise men and the comprehensive, clear insight granted by God. It vividly demonstrates God's ability to elevate His faithful servants above those who rely on earthly or demonic powers, proving the supremacy of His ways. This theme resonates with Proverbs 9:10, which states that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
  • Faithfulness Rewarded: This verse serves as a powerful testament to the blessings that follow obedience and integrity. Daniel and his friends' earlier decision to honor God led directly to their distinction, favor, and elevation in the eyes of the most powerful ruler of their time, highlighting God's faithfulness to those who are faithful to Him.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew words for "wisdom" (chokmah) and "understanding" (binah) are significant. Chokmah denotes practical skill, insight, and the ability to apply knowledge effectively in real-world situations, while binah refers to discernment, the capacity to comprehend complex matters, and the ability to distinguish between right and wrong. Together, they describe a comprehensive and profound intellectual and spiritual acumen, divinely bestowed upon Daniel and his companions, enabling them to excel in all matters the king inquired of them.

Practical Application

  • Seek Godly Wisdom: In a world that often values human intellect, worldly strategies, or even deceptive practices, this verse reminds us to seek wisdom from God, who "gives generously to all without finding fault" (James 1:5). True wisdom for life's challenges comes from Him.
  • Excellence for God's Glory: Believers are called to strive for excellence in their spheres of influence, not for personal ambition, but to demonstrate God's power, wisdom, and character. Like Daniel and his friends, we can become a testimony to God's greatness within our workplaces, communities, and even in leadership positions.
  • Faithfulness Brings Favor: Remaining committed and faithful to God, even in challenging or hostile environments, often leads to unexpected opportunities, divine favor, and distinction. Our integrity and reliance on God can allow us to impact our surroundings for His glory.
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Cross-References

  • Isaiah 47:12

    Stand now with thine enchantments, and with the multitude of thy sorceries, wherein thou hast laboured from thy youth; if so be thou shalt be able to profit, if so be thou mayest prevail.

  • Isaiah 47:14

    Behold, they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them; they shall not deliver themselves from the power of the flame: [there shall] not [be] a coal to warm at, [nor] fire to sit before it.

  • 1 Kings 4:29

    ¶ And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that [is] on the sea shore.

  • 1 Kings 4:34

    And there came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom.

  • Exodus 8:19

    Then the magicians said unto Pharaoh, This [is] the finger of God: and Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.

  • Isaiah 19:3

    And the spirit of Egypt shall fail in the midst thereof; and I will destroy the counsel thereof: and they shall seek to the idols, and to the charmers, and to them that have familiar spirits, and to the wizards.

  • Numbers 14:22

    Because all those men which have seen my glory, and my miracles, which I did in Egypt and in the wilderness, and have tempted me now these ten times, and have not hearkened to my voice;