Daniel 5:14
Daniel 5:14 in Multiple Translations
I have heard that the spirit of the gods is in you, and that you have insight, intelligence, and extraordinary wisdom.
I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee.
I have heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom are found in thee.
And I have had news of you, that the spirit of the gods is in you, and that light and reason and special wisdom have been seen in you.
I have heard about you, that the spirit of the gods is in you, and that you were found to have understanding, insight, and great wisdom.
Now I haue heard of thee, that the spirit of the holy gods is in thee, and that light and vnderstanding and excellent wisdome is found in thee.
And I have heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods [is] in thee, and light, and understanding, and excellent wisdom have been found in thee.
I have heard of you, that the spirit of the gods is in you and that light, understanding, and excellent wisdom are found in you.
I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee.
I have heard of thee, that thou hast the spirit of the gods, and excellent knowledge, and understanding, and wisdom are found in thee.
I have also heard that the spirit of the gods is in you, and that you are very wise and understand many things.
Berean Amplified Bible — Daniel 5:14
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Daniel 5:14 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/שִׁמְעֵ֣ת
עלי/ך
עֲלָ֔/ךְ
דִּ֛י
ר֥וּחַ
אֱלָהִ֖ין
בָּ֑/ךְ
וְ/נַהִיר֧וּ
וְ/שָׂכְלְתָנ֛וּ
וְ/חָכְמָ֥ה
יַתִּירָ֖ה
הִשְׁתְּכַ֥חַת
בָּֽ/ךְ
וְ/שִׁמְעֵ֣ת
shᵉmaʻ
H8086
to hear
Adj | V-Qal-Perf-1cs
עלי/ך
ʻal
H5922
since
Adj | Suff
עֲלָ֔/ךְ
ʻal
H5922
since
Adj | Suff
דִּ֛י
dîy
H1768
that
Adj
ר֥וּחַ
rûwach
H7308
spirit
Adj
אֱלָהִ֖ין
ʼĕlâhh
H426
god
Adj
בָּ֑/ךְ
Adj | Suff
וְ/נַהִיר֧וּ
nᵉhîyr
H5094
light
Adj | N-fs
וְ/שָׂכְלְתָנ֛וּ
soklᵉthânûw
H7924
insight
Adj | N-fs
וְ/חָכְמָ֥ה
chokmâh
H2452
wisdom
Adj | N-fs
יַתִּירָ֖ה
yattîyr
H3493
preeminent
Adj
הִשְׁתְּכַ֥חַת
shᵉkach
H7912
to find
Adj
בָּֽ/ךְ
Adj | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — Daniel 5:14
וְ/שִׁמְעֵ֣ת
shᵉmaʻ
H8086
"to hear"
Adj | V-Qal-Perf-1cs
Similar to H8085, this word means to hear and obey, used in various forms throughout the Bible. It emphasizes the importance of listening to God's commands and following them.
Definition: 1) to hear 1a) (P'al) to hear, have a sense of hearing 1b) (Ithpael) to show oneself obedient
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: hear, obey. See also: Daniel 3:5; Daniel 5:14; Daniel 7:27.
עלי/ך
ʻal
H5922
"since"
Adj | Suff
Similar to H5921, this word means on, above, or because of something. It is often used to describe a reason or a direction, like in Genesis 18:5 where Abraham is asked to walk before God.
Definition: 1) upon, over, on account of, above, to, against 1a) upon, over, on account of, regarding, concerning, on behalf of 1b) over (with verbs of ruling) 1c) above, beyond (in comparison) 1d) to, against (of direction)
Usage: Occurs in 86 OT verses. KJV: about, against, concerning, for, (there-) fore, from, in, [idiom] more, of, (there-, up-) on, (in-) to, [phrase] why with. See also: Ezra 4:8; Daniel 4:2; Daniel 7:28.
עֲלָ֔/ךְ
ʻal
H5922
"since"
Adj | Suff
Similar to H5921, this word means on, above, or because of something. It is often used to describe a reason or a direction, like in Genesis 18:5 where Abraham is asked to walk before God.
Definition: 1) upon, over, on account of, above, to, against 1a) upon, over, on account of, regarding, concerning, on behalf of 1b) over (with verbs of ruling) 1c) above, beyond (in comparison) 1d) to, against (of direction)
Usage: Occurs in 86 OT verses. KJV: about, against, concerning, for, (there-) fore, from, in, [idiom] more, of, (there-, up-) on, (in-) to, [phrase] why with. See also: Ezra 4:8; Daniel 4:2; Daniel 7:28.
דִּ֛י
dîy
H1768
"that"
Adj
This word is used as a relative conjunction, like 'that' or 'which', to connect ideas in sentences. It appears in Genesis and Exodus to describe relationships between people and things. The KJV translates it as 'that' or 'which'.
Definition: part of relation 1) who, which, that mark of genitive 2) that of, which belongs to, that conj 3) that, because
Usage: Occurs in 186 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] as, but, for(-asmuch [phrase]), [phrase] now, of, seeing, than, that, therefore, until, [phrase] what (-soever), when, which, whom, whose. See also: Ezra 4:9; Daniel 3:7; Jeremiah 10:11.
ר֥וּחַ
rûwach
H7308
"spirit"
Adj
This word for spirit is used to describe the wind, a person's mind, or their emotions, and is seen in the writings of King Solomon.
Definition: 1) spirit, wind 1a) wind 1b) spirit 1b1) of man 1b2) seat of the mind
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: mind, spirit, wind. See also: Daniel 2:35; Daniel 5:12; Daniel 7:15.
אֱלָהִ֖ין
ʼĕlâhh
H426
"god"
Adj
This word means God, referring to the God of Israel or a heathen deity, as seen in various KJV translations. It is used to describe a divine being.
Definition: 1) god, God 1a) god, heathen deity 1b) God (of Israel)
Usage: Occurs in 78 OT verses. KJV: God, god. See also: Ezra 4:24; Daniel 2:19; Jeremiah 10:11.
בָּ֑/ךְ
""
Adj | Suff
וְ/נַהִיר֧וּ
nᵉhîyr
H5094
"light"
Adj | N-fs
Illumination or insight, like the wisdom given to Solomon. This word describes a bright or shining light. It is often used figuratively to describe understanding.
Definition: light
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: light. See also: Daniel 2:22; Daniel 5:11; Daniel 5:14.
וְ/שָׂכְלְתָנ֛וּ
soklᵉthânûw
H7924
"insight"
Adj | N-fs
This Aramaic word means insight or intelligence, related to understanding. It is used in Daniel to describe wise decisions.
Definition: insight Aramaic of se.khel (שֵׂ֫כֶל "understanding" H7922)
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: understanding. See also: Daniel 5:11; Daniel 5:12; Daniel 5:14.
וְ/חָכְמָ֥ה
chokmâh
H2452
"wisdom"
Adj | N-fs
This Aramaic word for wisdom is similar to the Hebrew word, describing ethical and religious insight, like in the book of Daniel.
Definition: wisdom Aramaic of chokh.mah (חׇכְמָה "wisdom" H2451)
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: wisdom. See also: Ezra 7:25; Daniel 2:23; Daniel 5:14.
יַתִּירָ֖ה
yattîyr
H3493
"preeminent"
Adj
This word means 'preeminent' or 'excellent', like in Psalm 71 where it describes God's excellent greatness.
Definition: adj 1) pre-eminent, surpassing, extreme, extraordinary adv 2) exceedingly, extremely
Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: exceeding(-ly), excellent. See also: Daniel 2:31; Daniel 5:14; Daniel 7:19.
הִשְׁתְּכַ֥חַת
shᵉkach
H7912
"to find"
Adj
This word means to find or discover something, either literally or figuratively. It's used in the Bible to describe finding things, like wisdom or God's favor. The KJV translates it simply as 'find'.
Definition: 1) to find 1a) (Aphel) to find 1b) (Ithp'al) to be found
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: find. See also: Ezra 4:15; Daniel 5:12; Daniel 6:24.
בָּֽ/ךְ
""
Adj | Suff
Study Notes — Daniel 5:14
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Daniel 5:14 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Daniel 5:14
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Daniel 5:14
- Trapp's Commentary on Daniel 5:14
- Cambridge Bible on Daniel 5:14
- Barnes' Notes on Daniel 5:14
- Whedon's Commentary on Daniel 5:14
- Sermons on Daniel 5:14
Context — Daniel Interprets the Handwriting
12did this because Daniel, the one he named Belteshazzar, was found to have an extraordinary spirit, as well as knowledge, understanding, and the ability to interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve difficult problems. Summon Daniel, therefore, and he will give you the interpretation.”
13So Daniel was brought before the king, who asked him, “Are you Daniel, one of the exiles my father the king brought from Judah?
14I have heard that the spirit of the gods is in you, and that you have insight, intelligence, and extraordinary wisdom.
15Now the wise men and enchanters were brought before me to read this inscription and interpret it for me, but they could not give its interpretation. 16But I have heard about you, that you are able to give interpretations and solve difficult problems. Therefore, if you can read this inscription and give me its interpretation, you will be clothed in purple and have a gold chain placed around your neck, and you will be made the third highest ruler in the kingdom.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Daniel 5:11–12 | There is a man in your kingdom who has the spirit of the holy gods in him. In the days of your father he was found to have insight, intelligence, and wisdom like that of the gods. Your father, King Nebuchadnezzar, appointed him chief of the magicians, enchanters, astrologers, and diviners. Your own father, the king, did this because Daniel, the one he named Belteshazzar, was found to have an extraordinary spirit, as well as knowledge, understanding, and the ability to interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve difficult problems. Summon Daniel, therefore, and he will give you the interpretation.” |
Daniel 5:14 Summary
[This verse shows that King Belshazzar had heard about Daniel's amazing abilities and wanted his help to understand a mysterious message. Daniel 5:14 says that the king believed Daniel had 'the spirit of the gods' in him, which means he thought Daniel had a special connection to the divine. However, as Christians, we know that Daniel's wisdom and insight came from the one true God, as seen in Proverbs 2:6, where it is written that the Lord gives wisdom. We can learn from Daniel's example by seeking God's wisdom and guidance in our own lives, and trusting Him to give us the insight we need to navigate challenging situations.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the phrase 'spirit of the gods' mean in Daniel 5:14?
The phrase 'spirit of the gods' refers to a supernatural or divine enablement, similar to what is described in Daniel 4:8, where Nebuchadnezzar recognizes that Daniel has 'the spirit of the holy gods' in him, allowing him to interpret dreams and solve problems.
Is the king in Daniel 5:14 a believer in the one true God?
The king's statement in Daniel 5:14 suggests that he is still a polytheist, believing in multiple gods, as he says 'the spirit of the gods is in you', rather than recognizing the one true God of Israel, as seen in Isaiah 45:5-6.
What kind of wisdom is being described in Daniel 5:14?
The wisdom described in Daniel 5:14 is 'extraordinary wisdom', which is a gift from God, as seen in James 1:5, where it is written that God gives wisdom generously to those who ask, and in 1 Corinthians 1:30, where Christ is described as our wisdom from God.
How does this verse relate to Daniel's character?
This verse highlights Daniel's reputation for having 'insight, intelligence, and extraordinary wisdom', which is a result of his faithfulness to God and his prayer life, as seen in Daniel 6:10, where Daniel continues to pray to the one true God despite the danger.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I need God's wisdom and insight, and how can I seek Him for it?
- How can I, like Daniel, cultivate a reputation for wisdom and integrity in my community?
- What are some ways that I can use my gifts and abilities to serve others and bring glory to God, as Daniel did in this verse?
- In what ways can I trust God to give me wisdom and guidance in difficult situations, just as Daniel trusted God in the midst of uncertainty?
Gill's Exposition on Daniel 5:14
I have even heard of thee,.... Very probably he had heard often of him, though he did not think fit to honour him, and use him with that familiarity his grandfather had; or however he had now just
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Daniel 5:14
I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee. No JFB commentary on these verses.
Trapp's Commentary on Daniel 5:14
Daniel 5:14 I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods [is] in thee, and [that] light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee.Ver. 14. I have even heard of thee that the spirit, &c.] This silly and shallow prince hath nothing to say but what was put into his month by his wiser grandmother; only what she discreetly concealed, viz., that Daniel was one of the captives, &c., hoc unum commemorat gloriosus rex, that he blurts out, in a way of upbraiding. Oecolamp.
Cambridge Bible on Daniel 5:14
14. I have heard (R.V.), &c.] Daniel 5:11. excellent wisdom] surpassing (Daniel 5:12) wisdom (Daniel 5:11).
Barnes' Notes on Daniel 5:14
I have even heard of thee ... - Daniel 5:11.
Whedon's Commentary on Daniel 5:14
13-16. Art thou that Daniel — Or, with Prince, So thou art Daniel. (Compare Daniel 8:27, and note on Daniel 5:12.) The oldest LXX.
Sermons on Daniel 5:14
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
An Excellent Spirit by Michael Howard | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a burning desire to do more than just passively observe one's circumstances. He references the story of Daniel in th |
|
Now We Have Received by C.H. Spurgeon | The preacher delves into the Greek word 'huperecho,' which means to excel, be superior, and hold others in higher regard. Paul emphasizes the importance of esteeming others as more |
|
The Word of Wisdom by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of the Holy Spirit's manifestations in the life of a believer, particularly focusing on the gift of wisdom. He explains the difference betwe |