Daniel 3:16

KJV

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we [are] not careful to answer thee in this matter.

KJV (with Strong's)

Shadrach {H7715}, Meshach {H4336}, and Abednego {H5665}, answered {H6032} and said {H560} to the king {H4430}, O Nebuchadnezzar {H5020}, we {H586} are not {H3809} careful {H2818} to answer {H8421} thee in {H5922} this {H1836} matter {H6600}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Shadrakh, Meishakh and 'Aved-N'go answered the king, "Your question doesn't require an answer from us.

Berean Standard Bible

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter.

American Standard Version

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer thee in this matter.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 3:16 captures the resolute and unwavering response of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to King Nebuchadnezzar's furious demand that they worship his golden image. Their declaration, "we are not careful to answer thee in this matter," signifies not indifference, but a profound, settled conviction that requires no deliberation or defense. They had already made their choice to obey God rather than man, demonstrating an unshakeable faith in the face of imminent death in the fiery furnace. This verse stands as a powerful testament to courageous fidelity to God amidst extreme pressure.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal moment within the dramatic narrative of Daniel chapter 3. Preceding it, King Nebuchadnezzar, in an act of monumental self-aggrandizement and consolidation of power, erects an enormous golden image on the plain of Dura and decrees that all officials and subjects must bow down and worship it at the sound of specific musical instruments, or face immediate execution in a blazing fiery furnace ([Daniel 3:1-7](/daniel/3-1 "Daniel 3:1-7 - Nebuchadnezzar's Golden Image and Decree")). Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, three Jewish exiles who had risen to prominent administrative positions in Babylon due to their wisdom and God's favor ([Daniel 2:48-49](/daniel/2-48 "Daniel 2:48-49 - Daniel and his companions promoted")), are singled out by jealous Chaldeans for their refusal to comply ([Daniel 3:8-12](/daniel/3-8 "Daniel 3:8-12 - The Accusation Against the Jews")). The king, enraged by their defiance, brings them before him, offering them a second chance to recant. Daniel 3:16 is their immediate, unflinching reply to this direct confrontation, setting the stage for their miraculous deliverance and a profound display of God's sovereignty.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the Neo-Babylonian Empire, specifically during the reign of Nebuchadnezzar II (c. 605-562 BC), who was arguably the most powerful monarch of his time. Babylon was a sprawling, idolatrous empire, known for its grand architecture, military might, and syncretistic religious practices. Kings in the ancient Near East often demanded absolute loyalty, which included religious homage. Refusal to worship the king's gods or his image was not merely a religious transgression but an act of political rebellion, punishable by death. The golden image likely served as a symbol of Nebuchadnezzar's absolute authority and the unity of his diverse empire under his rule. For the Jewish exiles, who were monotheistic and forbidden from idolatry by the Mosaic Law ([Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3-5 - The First and Second Commandments")), bowing to such an image was a direct violation of their covenant with Yahweh. Their refusal was an extraordinary act of courage and faith, given the immense power of the king and the certain death penalty.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Daniel and biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **faithfulness in exile**, demonstrating how believers can maintain their integrity and devotion to God even when living under oppressive, pagan rule. Secondly, it underscores the **sovereignty of God** over earthly rulers and empires, as seen in the subsequent miraculous deliverance that validates their trust. Thirdly, it starkly contrasts **idolatry** (the worship of man-made images and human authority) with **monotheism** (the exclusive worship of the one true God). Fourthly, it exemplifies **courage and conviction** in the face of persecution, showing that true allegiance to God transcends fear of death. Finally, it foreshadows the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over all earthly powers, a central message woven throughout Daniel, particularly in visions like [Daniel 2:44-45](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44-45 - God's Everlasting Kingdom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **not (Aramaic, _lâʼ'_):** This Aramaic negative particle, corresponding to the Hebrew `loʼ`, signifies a simple, absolute negation. In this context, it emphasizes the definitive nature of their stance. There is no ambiguity, no hesitation; their position is unequivocally "no." It’s a complete rejection of the premise that they need to deliberate or defend themselves.
* **careful (Aramaic, _chăshach'_):** This word carries the sense of "to be necessary," "to need," or "to be anxious/deliberate." When combined with the negative particle "not," it conveys "there is no need," "no necessity," or "no cause for anxiety/deliberation." It does not mean they are flippant or indifferent, but rather that their conviction is so settled and clear that they do not require a moment to consider their response or to formulate a defense. Their faith has already resolved the matter.
* **matter (Aramaic, _pithgâm'_):** This term refers to a "word," "answer," "letter," or "decree." Here, it refers to the specific issue at hand: the king's decree to worship the golden image and their refusal to do so. By saying they are "not careful to answer thee in this this matter," they are stating that on this specific, non-negotiable point of idolatry, their position is utterly fixed and requires no further discussion or explanation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king":** This opening clause immediately establishes the direct confrontation and the identity of the protagonists. Their "answering and saying" implies a direct, verbal response to Nebuchadnezzar's furious interrogation and challenge, indicating their readiness to engage despite the dire consequences.
* **"O Nebuchadnezzar":** Addressing the king by name, without titles of deference or flattery, is a subtle but powerful act of defiance and a declaration of their spiritual independence. It underscores their conviction that while he is king, he is still a man, and their ultimate allegiance is to a higher authority. It's a bold, direct address that cuts through the typical courtly protocol.
* **"we [are] not careful to answer thee in this matter":** This is the core declaration. As explored in the key word analysis, it means "we have no need to deliberate or be anxious about our answer to you concerning this issue." Their faith is so absolute, their commitment to God so complete, that the decision is already made. There is no room for negotiation, no need for a defense, and no fear of the outcome. Their response is born of deep conviction, not recklessness.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. **Antithesis** is prominent, contrasting the king's overwhelming power and demands with the seemingly insignificant position of three exiles, yet their spiritual resolve proves superior. The phrase "not careful to answer" itself is a form of **understatement** or **litotes** (a figure of speech that employs an understatement by using double negatives). It sounds almost casual, but in reality, it conveys a profound, unshakeable resolve and a prepared heart, rather than a flippant attitude. This creates **dramatic irony**, as Nebuchadnezzar likely perceives their response as insolence or foolishness, while the reader understands it as an expression of deep, unwavering faith and trust in God's sovereignty. Their direct address, "O Nebuchadnezzar," rather than using royal titles, also serves as a subtle act of **defiance** and a declaration of their ultimate allegiance to God, stripping the king of his perceived divine authority in their eyes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 3:16 profoundly illustrates the principle of uncompromised obedience to God above all human authority, especially when that authority demands idolatry. It is a testament to the fact that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but a radical commitment that prioritizes God's commands over personal safety, worldly advancement, or even life itself. This unwavering stance reflects a deep understanding of God's exclusive claim to worship and sovereignty, challenging believers across all ages to examine their own allegiances in the face of cultural pressures and governmental demands that conflict with divine law. Their conviction that they "are not careful to answer" signifies a spiritual maturity where the choice between God and the world is not a matter of debate but a settled reality.

* [Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3-5 - The First and Second Commandments")
* [Acts 5:29](/acts/5-29 "Acts 5:29 - Peter's Declaration to the Sanhedrin")
* [Matthew 10:28](/matthew/10-28 "Matthew 10:28 - Fear God, Not Man")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The profound declaration in Daniel 3:16 calls believers to a radical self-examination of their own convictions and priorities. In a world that constantly pressures conformity to its values, whether through subtle cultural shifts or overt demands, the steadfastness of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego serves as a powerful beacon. Their "not careful to answer" implies a faith so deeply rooted that it bypasses the need for calculation, defense, or fear. It challenges us to ask if our faith is similarly settled, if our allegiance to Christ is so absolute that when confronted with a choice between God's will and worldly consequences, our answer is already determined. This verse encourages a courageous, unhesitating commitment to truth, reminding us that true freedom is found not in avoiding conflict, but in unwavering obedience to God, trusting Him with every outcome.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "golden images" or worldly pressures in my life demand my allegiance and compromise my faith in Christ?**
* **Am I "careful" (anxious, deliberating, seeking an escape) when faced with opportunities to stand for my faith, or is my conviction settled?**
* **How can I cultivate a faith so deeply rooted in God that my response to spiritual compromise is immediate and unwavering, like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego?**
* **What fears prevent me from prioritizing God's commands above societal expectations or personal comfort?**

### FAQ
**What does "we are not careful to answer thee in this matter" truly mean?**

Answer: The King James Version's phrasing "not careful" can be misleading to modern ears, suggesting indifference or flippancy. However, the original Aramaic (specifically the phrase `lâʼ chăshach`) conveys a much deeper meaning. It signifies "there is no need for us to be anxious," "no necessity for us to deliberate," or "no need to defend ourselves concerning this matter." It communicates that their minds were already made up, their conviction was absolute, and their allegiance to God was non-negotiable. They were not being disrespectful, but rather demonstrating an unwavering resolve born of deep faith, indicating that no amount of discussion or threat would change their stance on idolatry. Their answer was settled because their God was sovereign.

**Why did Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to bow, knowing it meant certain death?**

Answer: Their refusal stemmed from their unwavering monotheistic faith and their commitment to the covenant commands given to Israel. The Mosaic Law explicitly forbade idolatry and the worship of any god other than Yahweh ([Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3-5 - The First and Second Commandments")). For these devout Jewish exiles, bowing to Nebuchadnezzar's golden image would have been a direct violation of God's law and a betrayal of their allegiance to the one true God. They prioritized their loyalty to God above their own lives, trusting in His sovereignty and power, even if it meant death. Their subsequent declaration in [Daniel 3:17-18](/daniel/3-17 "Daniel 3:17-18 - Their Declaration of Faith") clarifies their faith: God was able to deliver them, but even if He chose not to, they would still not serve the king's gods.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The unwavering conviction of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3:16, expressed in their refusal to compromise their faith, profoundly foreshadows the ultimate faithfulness of Jesus Christ. While they faced a fiery furnace for refusing to worship an idol, Christ willingly embraced the cross, the ultimate furnace of divine wrath, not for His own sin, but for the idolatry of humanity ([Isaiah 53:5-6](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5-6 - Christ's Atoning Sacrifice")). Their "not careful to answer" echoes the silent, resolute obedience of Jesus before His accusers, as He "opened not his mouth" ([Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - Christ's Silence Before His Accusers"); [Matthew 27:12-14](/matthew/27-12 "Matthew 27:12-14 - Jesus Before Pilate")). Their miraculous deliverance from the fire points to Christ's ultimate victory over death and hell through His resurrection, demonstrating God's power to save those who trust in Him ([Romans 8:11](/romans/8-11 "Romans 8:11 - The Spirit of Him who Raised Jesus")). Ultimately, their stand for the one true God anticipates the Lamb of God who alone is worthy of all worship and who, through His perfect obedience and sacrifice, delivers us from the bondage of sin and idolatry, bringing us into true freedom and eternal life ([Revelation 5:12-13](/revelation/5-12 "Revelation 5:12-13 - The Lamb is Worthy")).

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 1:7

Unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel [the name] of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.

Daniel 3:12

There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.