Daniel 5:16
Daniel 5:16 in Multiple Translations
But 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.”
And I have heard of thee, that thou canst make interpretations, and dissolve doubts: now if thou canst read the writing, and make known to me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with scarlet, and have a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdom.
But I have heard of thee, that thou canst give interpretations, and dissolve doubts: now if thou canst read the writing, and make known to me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with purple, and have a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdom.
And I have had news of you, that you have the power of making things clear, and of answering hard questions: now if you are able to make out the writing and give me the sense of it, you will be clothed in purple and have a gold chain round your neck and be a ruler of high authority in the kingdom.
However, I'm told that you are able to give interpretations and solve difficult problems. If you can read this writing and explain it to me, you will be clothed in purple and have a gold chain placed around your neck, and you will become the third highest ruler in the kingdom.”
Then heard I of thee, that thou couldest shewe interpretations, and dissolue doutes: nowe if thou canst reade the writing, and shew me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with purple, and shalt haue a chaine of golde about thy necke, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdome.
and I — I have heard of thee, that thou art able to give interpretations, and to loose knots: now, lo — thou art able to read the writing, and its interpretation to cause me to know — purple thou dost put on, and a bracelet of gold [is] on thy neck, and third in the kingdom thou dost rule.'
But I have heard of you, that you can give interpretations and dissolve doubts. Now if you can read the writing and make known to me its interpretation, you shall be clothed with purple, and have a chain of gold around your neck, and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.”
And I have heard of thee, that thou canst make interpretations, and dissolve doubts: now if thou canst read the writing, and make known to me the interpretation of it, thou shalt be clothed with scarlet, and have a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdom.
But I have heard of thee, that thou canst interpret obscure things, and resolve difficult things: now if thou art able to read the writing, and to shew me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with purple, and shalt have a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third prince in my kingdom.
Someone told me that you can tell what dreams mean and explain things that are very difficult to understand. If you can read these words and tell me what they mean, I will give you a purple robe like I wear because I am the king, and I will put a gold chain around your neck. You will become a very important official in my kingdom; there will be only two others who will be more important than you will be.”
Berean Amplified Bible — Daniel 5:16
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 5:16 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/אֲנָה֙
שִׁמְעֵ֣ת
עלי/ך
עֲלָ֔/ךְ
דִּֽי
תוכל
תִיכּ֥וּל
פִּשְׁרִ֛ין
לְ/מִפְשַׁ֖ר
וְ/קִטְרִ֣ין
לְ/מִשְׁרֵ֑א
כְּעַ֡ן
הֵן֩
תוכל
תִּכ֨וּל
כְּתָבָ֜/א
לְ/מִקְרֵ֗א
וּ/פִשְׁרֵ/הּ֙
לְ/הוֹדָ֣עֻתַ֔/נִי
אַרְגְּוָנָ֣/א
תִלְבַּ֗שׁ
ו/המונכ/א
וְ/הַֽמְנִיכָ֤/א
דִֽי
דַהֲבָ/א֙
עַֽל
צַוְּארָ֔/ךְ
וְ/תַלְתָּ֥א
בְ/מַלְכוּתָ֖/א
תִּשְׁלַֽט
וַ/אֲנָה֙
ʼănâʼ
H576
me
Adj | Pron
שִׁמְעֵ֣ת
shᵉmaʻ
H8086
to hear
Adj
עלי/ך
ʻal
H5922
since
Adj | Suff
עֲלָ֔/ךְ
ʻal
H5922
since
Adj | Suff
דִּֽי
dîy
H1768
that
Adj
תוכל
yᵉkêl
H3202
be able
Adj
תִיכּ֥וּל
yᵉkêl
H3202
be able
Adj
פִּשְׁרִ֛ין
pᵉshar
H6591
interpretation
Adj
לְ/מִפְשַׁ֖ר
pᵉshar
H6590
to interpret
Adj | V-Qal-Inf-a
וְ/קִטְרִ֣ין
qᵉṭar
H7001
joint
Adj | N-mp
לְ/מִשְׁרֵ֑א
shᵉrêʼ
H8271
to loose
Adj | V-Qal-Inf-a
כְּעַ֡ן
kᵉʻan
H3705
now
Adj
הֵן֩
hên
H2006
if
Adj
תוכל
yᵉkêl
H3202
be able
Adj
תִּכ֨וּל
yᵉkêl
H3202
be able
Adj
כְּתָבָ֜/א
kᵉthâb
H3792
inscription
Adj | Art
לְ/מִקְרֵ֗א
qᵉrâʼ
H7123
to read
Adj | V-Qal-Inf-a
וּ/פִשְׁרֵ/הּ֙
pᵉshar
H6591
interpretation
Adj | N-ms | Suff
לְ/הוֹדָ֣עֻתַ֔/נִי
yᵉdaʻ
H3046
to know
Adj | V-Hiphil-Inf-a | Suff
אַרְגְּוָנָ֣/א
ʼargᵉvân
H711
purple
Adj | Art
תִלְבַּ֗שׁ
lᵉbash
H3848
to clothe
Adj
ו/המונכ/א
hamnîyk
H2002
chain
Adj | N-ms | Art
וְ/הַֽמְנִיכָ֤/א
hamnîyk
H2002
chain
Adj | N-ms | Art
דִֽי
dîy
H1768
that
Adj
דַהֲבָ/א֙
dᵉhab
H1722
gold
Adj | Art
עַֽל
ʻal
H5922
since
Adj
צַוְּארָ֔/ךְ
tsavvaʼr
H6676
neck
Adj | Suff
וְ/תַלְתָּ֥א
tᵉlath
H8531
third
Adj | Adj
בְ/מַלְכוּתָ֖/א
malkûw
H4437
kingdom
Adj | N-fs | Art
תִּשְׁלַֽט
shᵉlêṭ
H7981
to rule
Adj
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 5:16
וַ/אֲנָה֙
ʼănâʼ
H576
"me"
Adj | Pron
This is the Hebrew word for I or me, often used to emphasize the speaker. In the book of Daniel, it is used by the prophet to express his own thoughts and feelings.
Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis) Aramaic of a.ni (אֲנִי, אָֽנֹכִ֫י "I" H0589)
Usage: Occurs in 16 OT verses. KJV: I, as for me. See also: Ezra 6:12; Daniel 4:6; Daniel 7:28.
שִׁמְעֵ֣ת
shᵉmaʻ
H8086
"to hear"
Adj
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.
דִּֽי
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.
תוכל
yᵉkêl
H3202
"be able"
Adj
Similar to H3201, this word also means to be able, but is used in the Aramaic language and has a slightly different connotation, still translated as 'be able' or 'prevail'.
Definition: 1) to be able 1a) (P'al) 1a1) to be able 1a2) to prevail
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: be able, can, couldest, prevail. See also: Daniel 2:10; Daniel 4:15; Daniel 7:21.
תִיכּ֥וּל
yᵉkêl
H3202
"be able"
Adj
Similar to H3201, this word also means to be able, but is used in the Aramaic language and has a slightly different connotation, still translated as 'be able' or 'prevail'.
Definition: 1) to be able 1a) (P'al) 1a1) to be able 1a2) to prevail
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: be able, can, couldest, prevail. See also: Daniel 2:10; Daniel 4:15; Daniel 7:21.
פִּשְׁרִ֛ין
pᵉshar
H6591
"interpretation"
Adj
This word refers to the explanation or meaning of something, like a dream. It is used in Daniel 2 and 4 to describe the interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar's dreams. The word is about finding the solution to a mystery.
Definition: interpretation (of dream) Aramaic of pit.ron (פִּתְרוֹן "interpretation" H6623)
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: interpretation. See also: Daniel 2:4; Daniel 4:4; Daniel 7:16.
לְ/מִפְשַׁ֖ר
pᵉshar
H6590
"to interpret"
Adj | V-Qal-Inf-a
This Hebrew word means to interpret something, like understanding a dream or message. It appears in the Bible when Daniel interprets King Nebuchadnezzar's dreams in Daniel 2. The word is used to explain the meaning of something unclear.
Definition: 1) to interpret 1a) (P'al) to interpret 1b) (Pael) to interpret
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: make (interpretations), interpreting. See also: Daniel 5:12; Daniel 5:16.
וְ/קִטְרִ֣ין
qᵉṭar
H7001
"joint"
Adj | N-mp
A joint or knot, this Hebrew word can refer to a physical connection, like the joints in our bodies, or a figurative one, like a problem or riddle. In the Bible, it is used to describe the complexities of human life and the challenges we face. The word appears in the book of Job.
Definition: 1) knot, joint, problem 1a) joints (of the hip) 1b) difficulties, doubts (fig)
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: doubt, joint. See also: Daniel 5:6; Daniel 5:12; Daniel 5:16.
לְ/מִשְׁרֵ֑א
shᵉrêʼ
H8271
"to loose"
Adj | V-Qal-Inf-a
To set something free or loosen it, like unloading an animal or starting a new journey, as described in the book of Zechariah.
Definition: 1) to loosen, abide, begin 1a) (P'al) 1a1) to loosen 1a2) to abide (from loosing girths for camp) 1b) (Pael) to begin, open 1c) (Ithpael) to be loosened
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: begin, dissolve, dwell, loose. See also: Ezra 5:2; Daniel 5:6; Daniel 5:16.
כְּעַ֡ן
kᵉʻan
H3705
"now"
Adj
In the Bible, this word means 'now' or 'at this time', often used to indicate a current moment or situation, like in Genesis. It's about what's happening currently. It's used to show when something is happening.
Definition: now, at this time, until now Aramaic equivalent: ke.e.net (כְּעֶ֫נֶת "now" H3706)
Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: now. See also: Ezra 4:13; Daniel 2:23; Daniel 6:9.
הֵן֩
hên
H2006
"if"
Adj
A Hebrew word meaning therefore or if, used to show cause and effect, as seen in the book of Daniel. It can also be used to ask a question or show uncertainty.
Definition: behold, if, whether Aramaic of hen (הֵן "look!" H2005)
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: (that) if, or, whether. See also: Ezra 4:13; Daniel 2:9; Daniel 5:16.
תוכל
yᵉkêl
H3202
"be able"
Adj
Similar to H3201, this word also means to be able, but is used in the Aramaic language and has a slightly different connotation, still translated as 'be able' or 'prevail'.
Definition: 1) to be able 1a) (P'al) 1a1) to be able 1a2) to prevail
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: be able, can, couldest, prevail. See also: Daniel 2:10; Daniel 4:15; Daniel 7:21.
תִּכ֨וּל
yᵉkêl
H3202
"be able"
Adj
Similar to H3201, this word also means to be able, but is used in the Aramaic language and has a slightly different connotation, still translated as 'be able' or 'prevail'.
Definition: 1) to be able 1a) (P'al) 1a1) to be able 1a2) to prevail
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: be able, can, couldest, prevail. See also: Daniel 2:10; Daniel 4:15; Daniel 7:21.
כְּתָבָ֜/א
kᵉthâb
H3792
"inscription"
Adj | Art
This word is similar to H3791, but it specifically refers to an inscription or written decree. It is used in the book of Daniel to describe a written command. The KJV translates it as 'writing' or 'prescribing'.
Definition: 1) a writing 1a) writing, inscription 1b) written decree, written requirement
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: prescribing, writing(-ten). See also: Ezra 6:18; Daniel 5:17; Daniel 6:11.
לְ/מִקְרֵ֗א
qᵉrâʼ
H7123
"to read"
Adj | V-Qal-Inf-a
This word means to read or call out loud, often used to describe reading scripture or proclaiming a message. In the book of Nehemiah, the priest Ezra reads the law aloud to the people.
Definition: 1) to call, read aloud, read out, shout 1a) (P'al) 1a1) to call, proclaim 1a2) to read aloud, read out 1b)(Ithp'el) to be summoned, be called
Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: call, cry, read. See also: Ezra 4:18; Daniel 5:8; Daniel 5:17.
וּ/פִשְׁרֵ/הּ֙
pᵉshar
H6591
"interpretation"
Adj | N-ms | Suff
This word refers to the explanation or meaning of something, like a dream. It is used in Daniel 2 and 4 to describe the interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar's dreams. The word is about finding the solution to a mystery.
Definition: interpretation (of dream) Aramaic of pit.ron (פִּתְרוֹן "interpretation" H6623)
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: interpretation. See also: Daniel 2:4; Daniel 4:4; Daniel 7:16.
לְ/הוֹדָ֣עֻתַ֔/נִי
yᵉdaʻ
H3046
"to know"
Adj | V-Hiphil-Inf-a | Suff
To know in Hebrew can also mean to let someone know or communicate, and is used in different forms, such as to certify, inform, or teach, in the Bible.
Definition: 1) to know 1a) (P'al) to know 1b) (Aphel) to let someone know, communicate, inform, cause to know
Usage: Occurs in 42 OT verses. KJV: certify, know, make known, teach. See also: Ezra 4:12; Daniel 2:30; Daniel 7:16.
אַרְגְּוָנָ֣/א
ʼargᵉvân
H711
"purple"
Adj | Art
In the Bible, this word describes a deep purple color, like the expensive dye used for royal robes in Esther 8:15. It signifies wealth and luxury, often associated with power and status. The color purple is mentioned in various contexts, including descriptions of rich fabrics.
Definition: purple, red-purple Aramaic of ar.ge.van (אַרְגְּוָן "purple" H0710)
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: purple. See also: Daniel 5:7; Daniel 5:16; Daniel 5:29.
תִלְבַּ֗שׁ
lᵉbash
H3848
"to clothe"
Adj
To clothe means to wrap something around or put on a garment. This word is similar to H3847 and is used in the Bible to describe being clothed or dressing someone.
Definition: 1) to be clothed 1a) (P'al) to be clothed 1b) (Aphel) to clothe someone
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: clothe. See also: Daniel 5:7; Daniel 5:16; Daniel 5:29.
ו/המונכ/א
hamnîyk
H2002
"chain"
Adj | N-ms | Art
This Hebrew word refers to a necklace or chain, a type of jewelry. It is used in the KJV translation to describe a decorative item, possibly made of precious metals or stones.
Definition: necklace, chain
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: chain. See also: Daniel 5:7; Daniel 5:16; Daniel 5:29.
וְ/הַֽמְנִיכָ֤/א
hamnîyk
H2002
"chain"
Adj | N-ms | Art
This Hebrew word refers to a necklace or chain, a type of jewelry. It is used in the KJV translation to describe a decorative item, possibly made of precious metals or stones.
Definition: necklace, chain
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: chain. See also: Daniel 5:7; Daniel 5:16; Daniel 5:29.
דִֽי
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.
דַהֲבָ/א֙
dᵉhab
H1722
"gold"
Adj | Art
In the Bible, this word means gold, a valuable metal. It is often used to describe items made of gold, such as jewelry or decorations.
Definition: gold Aramaic of za.hav (זָהָב "gold" H2091)
Usage: Occurs in 23 OT verses. KJV: gold(-en). See also: Ezra 5:14; Daniel 3:7; Daniel 5:29.
עַֽל
ʻal
H5922
"since"
Adj
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.
צַוְּארָ֔/ךְ
tsavvaʼr
H6676
"neck"
Adj | Suff
In the Bible, this word refers to the back of the neck, where burdens are carried, as seen in Genesis 27:16. It symbolizes strength and endurance. God often calls people to carry His burden.
Definition: neck Aramaic of tsav.var (צַוָּאר "neck" H6677A)
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: neck. See also: Daniel 5:7; Daniel 5:29; Hosea 10:11.
וְ/תַלְתָּ֥א
tᵉlath
H8531
"third"
Adj | Adj
In Hebrew, this word means 'third' or 'one of three', like a third part of something. It appears in books like Genesis and Daniel, and is also used in Aramaic texts. It helps describe order or sequence.
Definition: third, one of three, a third part Aramaic of she.li.shi (שְׁלִישִׁי "third" H7992)
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: third. See also: Daniel 5:16; Daniel 5:29.
בְ/מַלְכוּתָ֖/א
malkûw
H4437
"kingdom"
Adj | N-fs | Art
A kingdom refers to the territory or area ruled by a king, like King David's kingdom in Israel. It can also mean the reign or period of time a king is in power. The word is used in the Bible to describe royal authority and dominion.
Definition: 1) royalty, reign, kingdom 1a) royalty, kingship, kingly authority 1b) kingdom 1c) realm (of territory) 1d) reign (of time)
Usage: Occurs in 43 OT verses. KJV: kingdom, kingly, realm, reign. See also: Ezra 4:24; Daniel 5:7; Daniel 7:27.
תִּשְׁלַֽט
shᵉlêṭ
H7981
"to rule"
Adj
This Hebrew word means to have control or power over something or someone, like a ruler governing their people. It appears in the Bible when talking about leaders or authority figures. In the KJV, it's translated as 'have power' or 'bear rule'.
Definition: 1) to have power, rule, domineer, rule over 1a) (P'al) have power upon or over, rule, fall upon, assault, be ruler 1b) (Aphel) make ruler
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: have the mastery, have power, bear rule, be (make) ruler. See also: Daniel 2:38; Daniel 3:27; Daniel 6:25.
Study Notes — Daniel 5:16
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Daniel 5:16 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Daniel 5:16
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Daniel 5:16
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Daniel 5:16
- Trapp's Commentary on Daniel 5:16
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Daniel 5:16
- Cambridge Bible on Daniel 5:16
- Barnes' Notes on Daniel 5:16
- Whedon's Commentary on Daniel 5:16
- Sermons on Daniel 5:16
Context — Daniel Interprets the Handwriting
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.”
17In response, Daniel said to the king, “You may keep your gifts for yourself and give your rewards to someone else. Nevertheless, I will read the inscription for the king and interpret it for him. 18As for you, O king, the Most High God gave your father Nebuchadnezzar sovereignty and greatness, glory and honor.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Daniel 5:7 | The king called out for the enchanters, astrologers, and diviners to be brought in, and he said to these wise men of Babylon, “Whoever reads this inscription and tells me its interpretation will be clothed in purple and have a gold chain placed around his neck, and he will be made the third highest ruler in the kingdom.” |
| 2 | Genesis 40:8 | “We both had dreams,” they replied, “but there is no one to interpret them.” Then Joseph said to them, “Don’t interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.” |
| 3 | Daniel 5:29 | Then Belshazzar gave the command, and they clothed Daniel in purple, placed a gold chain around his neck, and proclaimed him the third highest ruler in the kingdom. |
| 4 | Acts 8:18 | When Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money. |
Daniel 5:16 Summary
[In Daniel 5:16, the king offers Daniel a great reward if he can interpret the mysterious inscription, showing that God can use anyone to bring about His purposes, as also seen in Esther 4:14 and Romans 8:28. This verse teaches us to trust God and seek His wisdom in all areas of our lives, as encouraged in Proverbs 3:5-6 and Jeremiah 29:11. By doing so, we can experience God's guidance and provision, even in difficult situations, as promised in Isaiah 41:10 and Philippians 4:13.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the king's offer to Daniel in Daniel 5:16?
The king's offer to Daniel, as stated in Daniel 5:16, is a test of Daniel's abilities and a demonstration of the king's desperation to understand the mysterious inscription, as also seen in Daniel 5:15 where the wise men and enchanters failed to interpret it.
What does the phrase 'third highest ruler in the kingdom' imply about Daniel's potential position?
The phrase 'third highest ruler in the kingdom' implies that Daniel would be granted a high rank in the kingdom, possibly below only the king and his immediate successor, similar to the positions of power held by Joseph in Egypt, as described in Genesis 41:40-44 and Daniel 2:48.
How does this verse relate to the concept of God's sovereignty, as mentioned in Daniel 5:18?
This verse relates to the concept of God's sovereignty in that it shows how God can use anyone, including a foreign king, to bring about His purposes and promote His faithful servants, as also seen in the example of Cyrus in Isaiah 45:1-7 and Ezra 1:1-4.
What can we learn from the king's willingness to reward Daniel, as seen in Daniel 5:16?
The king's willingness to reward Daniel teaches us about the value of seeking and rewarding wisdom, as also emphasized in Proverbs 4:7 and Proverbs 23:23, and the importance of recognizing and utilizing the gifts and talents that God has given to individuals, as seen in Matthew 25:14-30.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I am seeking wisdom and guidance, and how can I trust God to provide it, as Daniel did in this situation?
- How can I, like Daniel, remain humble and focused on God's purposes, even when offered worldly rewards and recognition, as warned against in 1 Timothy 6:10 and Matthew 6:24?
- What are some 'inscriptions' or challenges in my life that I need God's help to decipher and overcome, and how can I seek His guidance and wisdom, as described in James 1:5-8 and Proverbs 2:1-6?
- How can I use my gifts and talents to serve God and others, as Daniel did, and what are some potential 'rewards' or consequences of doing so, as taught in Matthew 25:31-46 and 1 Corinthians 3:10-15?
Gill's Exposition on Daniel 5:16
And I have heard of thee,.... That is, by the queen, which he repeats for the sake of observing what she had said of him, and which gave him encouragement to send for him: that thou canst make
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Daniel 5:16
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.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Daniel 5:16
These things were spoken to before, ,8.
Trapp's Commentary on Daniel 5:16
Daniel 5:16 And I have heard of thee, that thou canst make interpretations, and dissolve doubts: now if thou canst read the writing, and make known to me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with scarlet, and [have] a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdom.Ver. 16. And I have heard of thee.] As far off as he maketh it, Belshazzar could not be so ignorant of Daniel, as he would seem to be, since he understood punctually the dreams, honours, and troubles of his grandfather. But this he took for a piece of his silly glory, to make it very strange, as if he had never heard of Daniel till now.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Daniel 5:16
Verse 16. Dissolve doubts] Untie knots - unbind what is bound. An expression used in the east to signify a judge of eminent wisdom and skill.
Cambridge Bible on Daniel 5:16
16. make] better give (R.V.); lit. interpret. dissolve doubts] loose knots. See on Daniel 5:12. thou shalt be clothed with purple, &c.] As Daniel 5:7. and rule as one of three in the kingdom] See on Daniel 5:7.
Barnes' Notes on Daniel 5:16
And I have heard of thee ... - Daniel 5:11. Canst make interpretations - Margin, “interpret.” Chaldee, “interpret interpretations.” The meaning is, that he was skilled in interpreting or explaining dreams, omens, etc.
Whedon's Commentary on Daniel 5:16
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 5:16
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
(Genesis) Genesis 40:1-8 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis. Joseph is in prison and is put in charge of two men, the butler and the baker, who have offended |
|
Waiting in the Will of God by Shane Idleman | Shane Idleman emphasizes the importance of waiting in the will of God, using Joseph's story as a powerful example of enduring trials and delays. He highlights that waiting often in |
|
The Glorying of Leaven by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher begins by recounting the story of Belshazzar and how he was blind to the truth and hardened to the gospel. The preacher then paraphrases Matthew chapte |
|
|
Is the Holy Spirit Upon You? by Shane Idleman | This sermon emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit, highlighting the need for a new heart through repentance and belief in Christ. It addresses the hindranc |
|
Deception Through False Signs and Wonders by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen warns about the prevalent deception in Christendom through false signs and wonders, echoing the warnings of Jesus and Paul regarding 'another Jesus,' 'another spirit,' a |
|
Study Notes - the Priesthood by Walter Beuttler | Walter Beuttler delves into the significance of the priesthood, tracing its origins from the patriarchs to the appointment of Aaron and his sons as the first high priests. He empha |
|
|
(New Wine in New Wineskins) 15. Another 'Jesus' and His Ministry by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of discernment in recognizing the true nature of Jesus' ministry, contrasting it with a fabricated version that seeks validation from secular a |