Old Testament
Daniel 4:27
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Daniel is advising the king to change his ways.
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
Therefore, O king, please accept my advice: break off your sins by practicing righteousness, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the poor; it may lead to a lengthening of your tranquility.
Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Daniel is advising the king to change his ways. He urges him to stop doing wrong and start doing what is right. Practicing righteousness means living a life that reflects fairness and justice. Additionally, showing mercy to those in need is crucial. By helping the poor, the king can demonstrate compassion and kindness. Daniel suggests that if the king follows this advice, it could lead to a more peaceful and stable life. This message highlights the importance of personal responsibility and the impact of our actions on our well-being. It’s a reminder that our choices can lead to positive changes, not just for ourselves but for others as well. Ultimately, embracing righteousness and mercy can transform our lives and the lives of those around us, fostering a sense of community and harmony. The king's response to this counsel could determine his future and the peace of his kingdom, emphasizing the power of good deeds in shaping our destiny and relationships.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Daniel 4:27 to your life
Consider how your actions affect those around you. Look for opportunities to show kindness and help those in need. Reflect on areas in your life where you can make positive changes. Small acts of mercy can lead to greater peace in your life and community. Embrace the challenge to live righteously every day, making a difference one step at a time.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 4:27 teach about personal responsibility?
Daniel 4:27 emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility by urging the king to take action against his sins. It highlights that individuals have the power to change their behavior and make choices that lead to righteousness and mercy. This verse serves as a reminder that our actions directly impact our lives and the lives of others, encouraging us to reflect on how we can improve ourselves and contribute positively to our communities.
How can I practice righteousness according to Daniel 4:27?
Practicing righteousness, as suggested in Daniel 4:27, involves living a life that aligns with fairness, justice, and moral integrity. This can be achieved by making ethical decisions, treating others with respect, and standing up for what is right. Additionally, engaging in acts of kindness and helping those in need are practical ways to embody righteousness in daily life. By consistently choosing to do good, you can create a positive influence in your surroundings.
What does showing mercy to the poor mean in this verse?
Showing mercy to the poor, as mentioned in Daniel 4:27, means extending compassion and assistance to those who are less fortunate. This can involve providing financial help, offering emotional support, or volunteering time to help those in need. The verse encourages individuals, especially those in positions of power, to recognize the struggles of the poor and take action to alleviate their suffering. Such acts of mercy not only benefit the recipients but also foster a sense of community and goodwill.
What is the significance of tranquility in Daniel 4:27?
In Daniel 4:27, tranquility refers to a state of peace and stability in the king's life and reign. The verse suggests that by breaking off sins and practicing righteousness, the king may experience a lengthening of his tranquility. This implies that moral and ethical living can lead to a more harmonious existence, both personally and within the kingdom. The pursuit of peace through good deeds is a central theme, highlighting that our choices can shape our overall well-being.
The Book of Daniel
Daniel 1: Daniel and His Friends in Babylon
In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon comes unto Jerusalem and besieges it. The Lord gives Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God, which he carries into the land of Shinar to the house of his god. The king speaks unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes; children in whom is no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as have ability in them to stand in the king's palace, whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. The king appoints them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank, so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king. Among these are of the children of Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The prince of the eunuchs gives them names: unto Daniel he gives the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.
Unlock the full Daniel summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Daniel — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 12 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Daniel summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.