Old Testament
Daniel 5:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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.
Compare translations
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.
What Daniel 5:21 means
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.
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
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.
Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: The Writing on the Wall (Daniel 5:1–31)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 PlansAsk AI about Daniel 5:21
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 5:21
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 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.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.