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Daniel 3:18

But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

Daniel 3:18 · King James Version

Meaning

When faced with the command to worship a golden image set up by King Nebuchadnezzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego chose to remain faithful to their own beliefs and refused to bow down to the king's gods. This verse from the book of Daniel in the Bible shows the unwavering dedication of these three men to worshiping the one true God, even in the face of severe consequences. They were willing to risk their very lives rather than compromise their faith and bow down to idols. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to one's beliefs and remaining steadfast in the face of adversity. It demonstrates the courage and conviction of these three men, who were willing to stand up for what they believed in, regardless of the outcome. Their example continues to inspire and encourage believers today to remain faithful to God, even when facing opposition or persecution.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Daniel emphasizes the importance of staying loyal to one's faith, even in the face of adversity. The defiance shown by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in refusing to worship King Nebuchadnezzar's gods or the golden image he had set up serves as a powerful example of unwavering faith in the midst of persecution. This verse highlights the idea that true worship should be reserved for God alone, and that believers should not compromise their beliefs for the sake of pleasing earthly rulers. The steadfastness of these three men in their commitment to the one true God demonstrates the courage and conviction required to stand firm in the face of opposition. The word studies in this verse reveal the strength of the Hebrew words used to convey the resolute determination of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to remain faithful to their God, even at the risk of their own lives.

Daniel 3:18 in other translations

American Standard Version

But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

World English Bible

But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods, nor worship the golden image which you have set up.

Douay-Rheims

But if he will not, be it known to thee, O king, that we will not worship thy gods, nor adore the golden statue which thou hast set up.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But if not, bee it knowen to thee, O King, that wee will not serue thy gods, nor worship the golden image, which thou hast set vp.