Daniel 1:14 (KJV)

What does Daniel 1:14 mean?

Daniel 1:14 describes how the official in charge agreed to Daniel’s request and allowed Daniel and his friends to be tested for ten days. The official decided to let them follow their chosen diet for this short period to see what would happen.

In this scene, Daniel and his friends are in Babylon, where they have been taken as captives. They have asked the official not to make them eat the royal food, which would go against their beliefs. The official, after some hesitation, consents to their proposal and sets a ten-day trial to observe the results.

The Hebrew behind Daniel 1:14

• The word “consented” comes from שָׁמַע (shamaʿ), which often means “to hear” or “to listen.” Here, it carries the sense of the official not just hearing but agreeing to Daniel’s request, showing a willingness to cooperate.
• “Matter” is דָּבָר (davar), a word that can mean “word,” “thing,” or “matter.” In this context, it refers to the specific proposal Daniel made about the diet.
• “Proved” is נָסָה (nasah), which means “to test” or “to try.” This highlights that the official was not making a permanent change but was willing to experiment for a limited time.
• “Ten” is עֶשֶׂר (eser), simply meaning the number ten. The use of a specific, short period emphasizes the temporary nature of the test.
• “Days” is יוֹם (yom), meaning “day.” The ten days set a clear, measurable timeframe for the experiment.

Why Daniel 1:14 matters

• Daniel 1:14 shows the official’s openness and flexibility, which is significant because it allows Daniel and his friends to remain faithful without immediate conflict.
• This verse sets up the outcome of the test, which becomes a key turning point in the story, showing the results of trusting in their convictions.
• The verse highlights the practical steps Daniel took—negotiation and compromise—rather than outright defiance, which is important for understanding his character and approach.