Old Testament
Daniel 5:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse describes a king who lost his sanity and was cast out from society.
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
He was driven away from human society. His mind became like an animal's, and he lived among the wild donkeys. He ate grass like cattle, and his body was drenched with the dew of heaven — until he finally acknowledged that the Most High God rules over all human kingdoms and places over them whoever he chooses.
And he was driven from the sons of men; and his heart was made like the beasts, and his dwelling was with the wild asses: they fed him with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven; till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse describes a king who lost his sanity and was cast out from society. He lived like an animal, eating grass and exposed to the elements. This transformation was a result of his pride and refusal to recognize God's authority. Eventually, he came to understand that God is in control of all kingdoms and appoints leaders as He sees fit. This humbling experience taught him a vital lesson about the sovereignty of God. It serves as a reminder that no matter how powerful we think we are, we are ultimately under God's rule. Acknowledging this truth can lead to wisdom and humility in our own lives. The king's journey from pride to recognition of God's power is a powerful story of transformation and redemption, showing that even the proudest can learn humility and respect for divine authority. His experience illustrates the importance of recognizing our place in the grand scheme of life and the need for humility before a higher power. It’s a call to reflect on our own attitudes and actions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Daniel 5:21 to your life
Consider areas in your life where pride may be blinding you. Reflect on the importance of humility and recognizing a higher authority. Embrace the idea that true strength comes from acknowledging our limitations and the power of God in our lives. This can lead to personal growth and deeper understanding of our purpose. Stay open to learning from your experiences and the world around you, just as the king did in his journey of transformation.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 5:21 mean?
Daniel 5:21 describes a king who lost his sanity and lived like an animal due to his pride. It emphasizes that he eventually recognized God's authority over all kingdoms, illustrating the importance of humility.
What is the significance of the phrase 'Most High God' in Daniel 5:21?
The phrase 'Most High God' signifies God's supreme authority and power over all human kingdoms. It highlights the belief that God appoints leaders according to His will, reminding us of His ultimate control.
What lesson can we learn from Daniel 5:21?
Daniel 5:21 teaches the importance of humility and recognizing our limitations. It shows that pride can lead to downfall, while acknowledging God's sovereignty can lead to personal growth and wisdom.
How does Daniel 5:21 relate to pride and humility?
Daniel 5:21 illustrates the consequences of pride through the king's transformation into a beast. It serves as a reminder that humility is essential for understanding our place under God's authority.
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.
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