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.
Daniel 5:16 · King James Version
Meaning
Within the Book of Daniel, this particular verse highlights a crucial moment in the story of King Belshazzar and the prophet Daniel. In this verse, we see a demonstration of the king's awareness of Daniel's reputation for his ability to interpret dreams and solve riddles. The king challenges Daniel to read and interpret a mysterious piece of writing on the wall, promising great rewards if he succeeds. The mention of being clothed in scarlet, having a gold chain around his neck, and being the third ruler in the kingdom signifies the high honor and status that Daniel would receive if he is able to accomplish this task. Ultimately, this verse serves as a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the unveiling of an important prophecy and Daniel's role in the events that are about to unfold.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Daniel, King Belshazzar acknowledges the reputation of Daniel for his ability to interpret dreams and solve mysteries. Belshazzar offers Daniel great rewards if he can read and interpret the mysterious writing on the wall. The mention of scarlet and gold signifies honor and prestige in ancient Babylon. The promise of being the third ruler in the kingdom indicates a high position of authority and influence. This verse highlights Daniel's exceptional gift of interpreting dreams and insights, which he attributes to the wisdom and guidance of God. It shows how God's chosen people were not only skilled in earthly matters but were also vessels through which divine messages and revelations were delivered. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's guidance and seeking wisdom from Him in times of uncertainty or doubt.
Daniel 5:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
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.
World English Bible
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 about your neck, and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.
Douay-Rheims
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.
Geneva Bible (1599)
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.