Daniel 2:15

"Then Daniel returned answer with counsel and prudence to Arioch the captain of the king’s guard, who had gone out to kill the wise men of Babylon."

Key Reflection

Daniel 2:15 reveals a pivotal moment in the narrative of Daniel's wisdom and God’s intervention. When the king of Babylon issued a decree to execute all the wise men, including Daniel, for failing to reveal a secret dream, Arioch, the captain of the king’s guard, was dispatched to carry out this execution. However, Daniel’s response demonstrated both prudence and counsel, showing that he understood the gravity of the situation but also trusted in God’s providence. This act would have astounded the original audience, highlighting the wisdom and faith of a man who faced life-threatening circumstances with confidence in divine intervention.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

He answered and said to Arioch the king’s captain -The word “captain” - a different word from what occurs inDaniel 2:14,שׁליטאshallı̂yṭa'- denotes one who has rule or dominion; one who is powerful or mighty; and it would be applied only to one who sustained a post of honor and responsibility. See the use of the wordשׁלטshālaṭ, as meaning “to rule,” inNehemiah 5:15;Ecclesiastes 2:19;Ecclesiastes 6:2;Ecclesiastes 8:9;Esther 9:1;Psalms 119:133.

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