Old Testament
Daniel 5:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the downfall of a king who let pride take over his heart.
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
But when his heart became arrogant and his spirit grew stubborn with pride, he was removed from his royal throne, and they took his glory from him.
But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the downfall of a king who let pride take over his heart. When he became arrogant and stubborn, he lost his position and the respect that came with it. His pride blinded him to the consequences of his actions. Instead of leading wisely, he allowed his ego to dictate his decisions. This led to his removal from power, showing that arrogance can lead to a fall from grace. The story serves as a reminder that humility is essential for true leadership. When we let pride control us, we risk losing everything we hold dear. It’s a powerful lesson about the importance of staying grounded and recognizing our limitations, no matter how successful we become. The king's glory was stripped away, illustrating that no one is above the consequences of their choices, especially when those choices stem from pride. This serves as a cautionary tale for anyone in a position of authority or influence, emphasizing the need for humility and self-awareness in our lives and decisions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Daniel 5:20 to your life
Reflect on areas in your life where pride may be influencing your decisions. Consider how humility can improve your relationships and leadership. Make a conscious effort to listen to others and acknowledge their contributions. Remember, staying grounded is key to maintaining respect and success in any role you hold. Embrace humility as a strength, not a weakness. “Be aware of your limitations and learn from others.” “Seek wisdom over pride.”
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 5:20 mean?
Daniel 5:20 describes the downfall of a king who became arrogant and prideful. His pride led to his removal from power, illustrating that arrogance can result in losing authority and respect.
What is the significance of pride in Daniel 5:20?
In Daniel 5:20, pride is shown as a destructive force that blinds individuals to the consequences of their actions. The verse serves as a warning that unchecked pride can lead to a loss of power and dignity.
What lessons can we learn from Daniel 5:20?
Daniel 5:20 teaches the importance of humility and self-awareness in leadership. It reminds us that pride can lead to significant consequences, urging us to stay grounded and recognize our limitations.
How does Daniel 5:20 relate to leadership?
Daniel 5:20 highlights that effective leadership requires humility. The verse illustrates that leaders who allow pride to dictate their decisions risk losing their position and the respect of others.

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.