Daniel 1:5

KJV

And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the king {H4428} appointed {H4487} them a daily {H3117}{H3117} provision {H1697} of the king's {H4428} meat {H6598}, and of the wine {H3196} which he drank {H4960}: so nourishing {H1431} them three {H7969} years {H8141}, that at the end {H7117} thereof they might stand {H5975} before {H6440} the king {H4428}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The king assigned them a daily portion of his own food and the wine he drank, and they were to be cared for in this way for three years. At the end of this time they were to become the king's attendants.

Berean Standard Bible

The king assigned them daily provisions of the royal food and wine. They were to be trained for three years, after which they were to enter the king’s service.

American Standard Version

And the king appointed for them a daily portion of the king’s dainties, and of the wine which he drank, and that they should be nourished three years; that at the end thereof they should stand before the king.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 1:5 details King Nebuchadnezzar's decree to provide a daily allowance of his personal food and wine to the select young Judean captives, including Daniel and his friends. This provision was part of a meticulously planned three-year training program designed to assimilate these promising youths into Babylonian court service, preparing them to "stand before the king" as royal advisors and officials.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 1:5 is an integral part of the introductory narrative of the Book of Daniel, immediately following the description of the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem and the selection of the most intelligent and capable young men from the Judean nobility in [Daniel 1:1-4](/daniel/1-1 "Daniel 1:1-4 - The Capture of Jerusalem and Selection of Youth"). This verse sets the stage for the dramatic conflict that unfolds in [Daniel 1:8](/daniel/1-8 "Daniel 1:8 - Daniel's Resolve Not to Defile Himself"), where Daniel and his friends refuse the king's provisions due to their dietary and religious convictions. It highlights the deliberate strategy of the Babylonian empire to integrate conquered peoples by reshaping their identity, language, and worldview, and it foreshadows the test of faith and divine intervention that defines much of Daniel's ministry. The king's provision, while seemingly generous, is presented as a crucial element in this assimilation process.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described in Daniel 1:5 take place during the early years of the Babylonian exile, specifically after Nebuchadnezzar's initial siege of Jerusalem in 605 BC, which led to the first deportation of Judean elites. It was common practice for ancient Near Eastern empires, like Babylon, to assimilate the brightest and most promising individuals from conquered territories into their own administrative structures. This served to both strengthen the empire with new talent and to weaken the national identity of the subjugated people. The "king's meat" (פתבג, *pathbag*) and "wine" were not just sustenance; they symbolized allegiance to the king and participation in the royal court's life. Such provisions often included food that was ritually unclean according to Mosaic law, or food that had been offered to pagan deities, posing a significant religious challenge for devout Israelites. The three-year training period was typical for comprehensive education in the Babylonian language (Aramaic and Akkadian), literature, astronomy, and court etiquette, ensuring the young men would be fully functional within the imperial system.
* **Key Themes:** Daniel 1:5 introduces several foundational themes that resonate throughout the book. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **assimilation versus faithfulness**, as the king's provision represents a subtle but powerful attempt to erase the distinct identity of the Judean captives. This sets up the tension between conforming to worldly systems and maintaining integrity to God's covenant, a challenge faced by believers across history (cf. [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Do Not Be Conformed to This World")). Secondly, the verse highlights **divine sovereignty in exile**, even amidst apparent defeat and captivity. While the king makes his decrees, God's providential hand is ultimately at work, preparing individuals for His purposes, as seen in the subsequent narrative of Daniel's rise. Thirdly, it emphasizes the **importance of wisdom and education**, albeit within a pagan context. The training period was designed to impart knowledge and skills, a theme that later finds its ultimate source in divine wisdom (cf. [Proverbs 2:6](/proverbs/2-6 "Proverbs 2:6 - God Gives Wisdom")). Finally, the provision itself serves as a **test of integrity and commitment**, forcing the young men to confront their convictions regarding the [dietary laws of Moses](/leviticus/11 "Leviticus 11 - Dietary Laws") and the worship of the one true God in a polytheistic environment.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Provision (Hebrew, _dâbâr_):** From H1697, this word primarily means "word" or "matter," but in this context, it signifies a "thing" or "affair" that is provided, specifically a daily allotment. Its broad semantic range suggests that the king's "provision" was not merely food but an entire "matter" or "arrangement" designed for the young men's integration, encompassing the specific items, the daily routine, and the underlying purpose of their assimilation into Babylonian life.
* **Nourishing (Hebrew, _gâdal_):** From H1431, this primitive root means "to be large" or "to grow," and causatively, "to make large," "bring up," or "nourish." Here, it describes the king's intention to "grow" or "bring up" these young men, not just physically, but also in terms of their status, knowledge, and loyalty within his court. It implies a comprehensive development program aimed at making them "great" in the service of Babylon, highlighting the king's investment in their future roles.
* **Stand (Hebrew, _ʻâmad_):** From H5975, this word means "to stand," "abide," "be present," or "serve." In the context of a royal court, "to stand before the king" denotes a position of attendance, service, or counsel. It implies being prepared, qualified, and authorized to enter the king's presence and perform duties. For Daniel and his friends, this was the ultimate goal of their three-year training, signifying their full integration and readiness for high-level administrative roles within the Babylonian empire.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank:"** This clause details the specific decree of King Nebuchadnezzar. The term "appointed" (H4487, *mânâh*) signifies a deliberate, official allotment. The "daily provision" (H3117, *yôwm* for daily; H1697, *dâbâr* for provision) underscores the regularity and consistency of this royal care. Crucially, the food and wine are "of the king's meat" (H6598, *pathbag*, a Persian loanword for royal delicacies) and "wine which he drank" (H3196, *yayin*; H4960, *mishteh*, for drink/banquet). This emphasizes the high status of the provisions, coming directly from the royal table, and highlights the potential for ritual defilement due to pagan associations or non-kosher ingredients.
* **"so nourishing them three years,"** This phrase explains the immediate purpose of the royal provision. The verb "nourishing" (H1431, *gâdal*) implies a process of growth, development, and upbringing, not just physical sustenance but comprehensive training. The "three years" (H7969, *shâlôwsh*; H8141, *shâneh*) specifies the duration of this intensive educational and assimilation program, indicating a significant investment of time and resources by the Babylonian court.
* **"that at the end thereof they might stand before the king."** This final clause articulates the ultimate objective of the entire program. "At the end thereof" (H7117, *qᵉtsâth*) refers to the completion of the three-year period. "Stand before the king" (H5975, *ʻâmad*; H6440, *pânîym* for face/presence; H4428, *melek* for king) signifies their readiness to serve in the highest echelons of the royal administration, implying a position of trust, counsel, and authority. This was the culmination of the king's strategy to integrate these foreign elites into his service.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several literary devices. **Irony** is present in the "nourishing" provision, which, while intended for physical and intellectual growth, simultaneously poses a spiritual threat to the young men's faith. The king's generosity is ironically the very thing that tests their integrity. **Foreshadowing** is evident as this seemingly benign provision sets the stage for Daniel's pivotal decision in [Daniel 1:8](/daniel/1-8 "Daniel 1:8 - Daniel's Resolve Not to Defile Himself"), where his refusal to defile himself becomes a central conflict. The "king's meat" and "wine" function as **Symbols** of the Babylonian system's attempt to assimilate and control, representing the seductive power of worldly comfort and prestige that can compromise spiritual convictions. The **Contrast** between the king's grand plans and God's ultimate sovereignty, which will become evident as Daniel and his friends prosper by divine favor, is subtly introduced here.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 1:5 introduces the fundamental tension between living faithfully in exile and the pressures of assimilation into a dominant, pagan culture. The king's provision, though seemingly a benevolent act, was a strategic tool of indoctrination, designed to mold the young men into loyal Babylonian subjects. This raises profound questions about how believers maintain their distinct identity and convictions when faced with cultural pressures that subtly undermine their faith. The theological implication is that true nourishment, both physical and spiritual, comes from God's provision and adherence to His commands, rather than from worldly sources that may compromise one's integrity. This verse sets the stage for God's faithfulness to those who honor Him, demonstrating that divine wisdom and favor can operate even within hostile environments.

* [Exodus 34:15](/exodus/34-15 "Exodus 34:15 - Warning Against Idolatry")
* [Psalm 1:1-2](/psalms/1-1 "Psalm 1:1-2 - The Blessed Man")
* [1 Corinthians 10:20-21](/1_corinthians/10-20 "1 Corinthians 10:20-21 - Warning Against Idolatry")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 1:5 offers a powerful and timeless lesson for believers navigating a world often at odds with biblical values. The "king's meat" and "wine" represent the subtle, yet pervasive, temptations and pressures to conform to societal norms, even when they conflict with our convictions. These pressures often come disguised as opportunities, comforts, or pathways to advancement, much like the royal provision offered to Daniel and his friends. This verse challenges us to critically examine the sources of our "nourishment"—what we consume, what influences us, and what we allow to shape our identity. Maintaining spiritual integrity in a pluralistic or even hostile environment requires intentional discernment and a resolute commitment to God's Word, even when it means choosing a path that seems less convenient or less prestigious. Our ultimate goal, like Daniel's, should be to "stand" before God, having maintained our faithfulness, rather than merely "standing before the king" of this world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "king's provisions" in my life or culture tempt me to compromise my faith or convictions?**
* **How do I discern between genuine opportunities and subtle attempts at assimilation that might undermine my spiritual identity?**
* **What steps can I take to ensure my "nourishment" primarily comes from God's Word and Spirit, enabling me to stand firm?**
* **In what areas of my life am I being prepared to "stand before the King" (God), and how does this earthly preparation relate to my eternal calling?**

### FAQ
**Why was the "king's meat" and "wine" an issue for Daniel and his friends?**

Answer: The "king's meat" and "wine" presented multiple issues for devout Israelites. Firstly, much of the food would likely have been considered unclean according to the Mosaic dietary laws outlined in [Leviticus 11](/leviticus/11 "Leviticus 11 - Clean and Unclean Foods") and [Deuteronomy 14](/deuteronomy/14 "Deuteronomy 14 - Clean and Unclean Foods"). This included certain animals, methods of slaughter, or preparation that did not adhere to Israelite kosher standards. Secondly, and perhaps more significantly, it was common practice in pagan courts for food and drink to be dedicated or offered to idols before consumption. Partaking in such provisions would have been seen as participating in idol worship or at least defiling oneself by association, which was strictly forbidden (cf. [Exodus 34:15](/exodus/34-15 "Exodus 34:15 - Warning Against Idolatry")). Daniel and his friends understood that their identity as God's people was tied to their adherence to His covenant, even in exile.

**What was the purpose of the three-year training period?**

Answer: The three-year training period was a comprehensive program designed to fully assimilate the young Judean captives into Babylonian culture and administration. It involved learning the language (likely Aramaic and Akkadian), literature, history, and sciences of Babylon, as well as court etiquette and administrative procedures. The goal was to transform them into loyal and competent servants of the king, capable of advising him and managing affairs of state. This extended period allowed for deep cultural immersion and the cultivation of skills necessary for high-level governmental service, ensuring their full integration into the Babylonian system so they could "stand before the king" (serve in his presence) effectively.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 1:5, with its depiction of a subtle yet profound test of faithfulness through provision, points us ultimately to Christ. While Daniel and his friends faced the challenge of defilement from the king's table, Jesus Christ, the true Son of David and the ultimate King, perfectly embodied purity and obedience in the face of all temptation. He was "nourished" not by the provisions of this world but by doing the will of His Father ([John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food")). Unlike the king's food, which threatened to defile, Christ offers Himself as the true bread of life ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")) and living water ([John 4:10](/john/4-10 "John 4:10 - Jesus Offers Living Water")), providing spiritual nourishment that cleanses and sustains, rather than defiles. His perfect life and sacrificial death enable believers, who were once captives to sin, to "stand before the King" of the universe, not through their own merit or a three-year training program, but through His imputed righteousness ([Romans 5:2](/romans/5-2 "Romans 5:2 - Access to Grace")). Daniel's resolve foreshadows Christ's unwavering commitment to God's will, even unto death, ensuring that those who trust in Him are truly nourished and equipped to serve in God's eternal kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 1:19

And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before the king.

1 Kings 10:8

Happy [are] thy men, happy [are] these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, [and] that hear thy wisdom.

Daniel 1:8

¶ 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.

2 Chronicles 9:7

Happy [are] thy men, and happy [are] these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and hear thy wisdom.

Jeremiah 15:19

Therefore thus saith the LORD, If thou return, then will I bring thee again, [and] thou shalt stand before me: and if thou take forth the precious from the vile, thou shalt be as my mouth: let them return unto thee; but return not thou unto them.

Luke 21:36

Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

Luke 11:3

Give us day by day our daily bread.