Daniel 5:16 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The king offers Daniel the same lavish rewards if he can read and interpret the writing.
What Does Daniel 5:16 Mean?
The king repeats his offer to Daniel: if he can read the writing and reveal its meaning, he will receive royal purple, a gold chain, and rank as third ruler in the kingdom. Belshazzar treats interpretation as a service to be purchased with honors.
The world often imagines that spiritual insight can be bought or rewarded like any commodity. But the truth Daniel will speak does not depend on these prizes, and his coming refusal will make that plain. God's messengers serve from conviction, not for gain, and the word they carry is worth more than any crown can offer. The contrast between the king's bribe and Daniel's integrity will soon reveal what truly makes a person great in God's sight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Daniel 5:16
What does Daniel 5:16 mean?
The king offers Daniel the same lavish rewards if he can read and interpret the writing.