Daniel 5:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Then Daniel answered and said before the king, Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another; yet I will read the writing unto the king, and make known to him the interpretation.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Daniel declines the rewards but agrees to read and interpret the writing anyway.
What Does Daniel 5:17 Mean?
Daniel responds with bold courtesy, telling the king to keep his gifts and give his rewards to someone else, yet promising to read the writing and make known its meaning regardless. He sets aside every incentive before he speaks a word.
Refusing the reward frees Daniel to deliver hard truth without the appearance of flattery or self-interest. A messenger who cannot be bought can be trusted, for his words serve God rather than his own advancement. This is the freedom of those who fear God more than they desire honor: they can speak plainly to power. Daniel's example calls believers to a faithfulness that is not for sale, declaring God's truth whether or not the world repays it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Daniel 5:17
What does Daniel 5:17 mean?
Daniel declines the rewards but agrees to read and interpret the writing anyway.