Daniel 5:11
There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of thy father light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, was found in him; whom the king Nebuchadnezzar thy father, the king, I say, thy father, made master of the magicians, astrologers, Chaldeans, and soothsayers;
Daniel 5:11 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Daniel highlights the presence of a skilled and knowledgeable individual in the kingdom of King Belshazzar. The scripture describes this man as someone who possessed the spirit of the holy gods and was endowed with light, understanding, and wisdom similar to the wisdom of the gods themselves. The verse emphasizes that during the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar, the man was recognized for his exceptional abilities and was appointed as the master of various groups such as magicians, astrologers, Chaldeans, and soothsayers. This individual's wisdom and discernment set him apart from others in the kingdom, earning him a position of authority and respect among the people of that time. The verse serves to underscore the significance of recognizing and valuing individuals who possess exceptional wisdom and understanding, as they play a crucial role in influencing and shaping the society in which they live.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the recognition of divine presence and wisdom in human beings. In this passage, there is a man in the kingdom who is described as having the spirit of the holy gods within him, possessing qualities such as light, understanding, and wisdom that are likened to those of the gods. This portrayal emphasizes the belief that individuals can be filled with spiritual insights and abilities that reflect the divine nature. The reference to King Nebuchadnezzar appointing this man as master of various mystical practices also underscores the idea of God's sovereignty in elevating individuals to positions of authority and influence. Through this verse, we are reminded of the importance of acknowledging and honoring the spiritual gifts and wisdom that God bestows upon individuals, as well as the significance of recognizing and respecting those who embody these qualities in society.
Daniel 5:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of thy father light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, were found in him; and the king Nebuchadnezzar thy father, the king, [I say], thy father, made him master of the magicians, enchanters, Chaldeans, and soothsayers;
World English Bible
There is a man in your kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of your father light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, were found in him; and the king Nebuchadnezzar your father, the king, your father, made him master of the magicians, enchanters, Chaldeans, and soothsayers;
Douay-Rheims
There is a man in thy kingdom that hath the spirit of the holy gods in him: and in the days of thy father knowledge and wisdom were found in him: for king Nabuchodonosor, thy father, appointed him prince of the wise men, enchanters, Chaldeans, and soothsayers, thy father, I say, O king:
Geneva Bible (1599)
There is a man in thy kingdome, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods, and in the dayes of thy father light and vnderstanding and wisdome like the wisdome of the gods, was found in him: whom the King Nebuchad-nezzar thy father, the King, I say, thy father, made chiefe of the enchanters, astrologians, Caldeans, and soothsayers,