Old Testament

Daniel 3:13

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Then Nebuchadnezzar, in his rage and fury, commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. So they brought these men before the king.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king.

What Daniel 3:13 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this moment, King Nebuchadnezzar is filled with intense anger. He orders that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be brought before him. These three men had defied the king's command to worship a golden statue, which enraged him. The king's fury reflects how power can lead to extreme reactions when challenged. Nebuchadnezzar's authority is threatened, and he seeks to assert control. This scene sets the stage for a dramatic confrontation between faith and power. The king's demand for the three men to appear before him shows his desire to confront them directly. Their response to his authority will reveal their true character and commitment to their beliefs. This moment is pivotal, as it highlights the clash between personal conviction and societal pressure, a theme that resonates throughout history and in our lives today. It reminds us that standing up for what we believe in can lead to significant challenges, but also to profound moments of truth and courage in the face of adversity.

How to apply Daniel 3:13 to your life

When faced with pressure to conform, remember the courage of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Stand firm in your beliefs, even when it’s difficult. This story encourages us to prioritize our values over societal expectations, reminding us that true strength lies in our convictions. Be brave in your choices today, no matter the consequences.

Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Samuel anointing the young David in Bethlehem

Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

David

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Hebron

Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Daniel 3:13

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Daniel 3:13

At a Glance — the Book of Daniel

Author
Daniel the prophet
Written
Around 530 BC
Genre
Prophecy and apocalyptic
Original Audience
Exiled Jews and future generations

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Daniel 3:13 mean?

Daniel 3:13 describes King Nebuchadnezzar's intense anger when he learns that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego have refused to worship a golden statue. The verse highlights the king's authority and his reaction to being challenged, setting the stage for a confrontation between his power and the faith of the three men.

How does Daniel 3:13 relate to themes of courage and defiance?

Daniel 3:13 relates to courage and defiance as it shows the immediate consequences faced by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego for their refusal to conform. Their willingness to stand before the king despite his anger exemplifies true bravery in the face of oppression.

What can we learn from Daniel 3:13 about standing up for beliefs?

From Daniel 3:13, we learn the importance of standing firm in our beliefs, even when faced with pressure or anger from authority figures. The verse encourages individuals to prioritize their convictions over societal expectations, demonstrating that true strength comes from within.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.