Daniel 5:13
Then was Daniel brought in before the king. And the king spake and said unto Daniel, Art thou that Daniel, which art of the children of the captivity of Judah, whom the king my father brought out of Jewry?
Daniel 5:13 · King James Version
Meaning
When King Belshazzar of Babylon brought Daniel before him, he was questioning if Daniel was indeed one of the Israelites who had been brought into captivity in Judah. This statement shows that King Belshazzar was aware of Daniel's background as one of the exiled Jews. The king's inquiry reflects his recognition of Daniel's unique position as a wise and trusted advisor in the royal court. By acknowledging Daniel's lineage and heritage, King Belshazzar demonstrates a level of respect and curiosity towards Daniel's origins. This verse serves to highlight the importance of Daniel's identity as one of the children of Judah, and sets the stage for the upcoming exchange between the king and the prophet Daniel. Through this interaction, readers can gain insight into the context and dynamics of the historical events unfolding within the Babylonian empire.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of Daniel 5:13, it is important to consider the historical context in which the verse takes place. In this particular passage, Daniel is brought before King Belshazzar, who questions Daniel regarding his identity as a captive from Judah. This interaction highlights the theme of exile and captivity that permeates the book of Daniel. The mention of Daniel being from the children of the captivity of Judah serves as a reminder of the Israelites' disobedience to God, which led to their exile in Babylon. Additionally, the verse emphasizes the providence of God in preserving Daniel and using him as a vessel to reveal divine messages to the Babylonian kings. The word study of "captivity" underscores the idea of being taken captive or a state of bondage, shedding light on the spiritual condition of the Israelites at that time. Overall, the theological interpretation and word study of this verse help to illuminate the themes of exile, obedience, and divine intervention present throughout the book of Daniel.
Daniel 5:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
Then was Daniel brought in before the king. The king spake and said unto Daniel, Art thou that Daniel, who art of the children of the captivity of Judah, whom the king my father brought out of Judah?
World English Bible
Then was Daniel brought in before the king. The king spoke and said to Daniel, Are you that Daniel, who are of the children of the captivity of Judah, whom the king my father brought out of Judah?
Douay-Rheims
Then Daniel was brought in before the king. And the king spoke, and said to him: Art thou Daniel, of the children of the captivity of Juda, whom my father, the king, brought out of Judea?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then was Daniel brought before the King, and the King spake and sayd vnto Daniel, Art thou that Daniel, which art of the children of the captiuitie of Iudah, whom my father the King brought out of Iewrie?