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Devotionals

God is My Judge

by Labron Cason

October 28, 2011

Scripture Reading: Daniel 1:6-7

“Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: Unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.”

Many critics have tried to claim that the book of Daniel was not written by Daniel. They say that it was written by one of the Maccabees to encourage the Jews in their trying days of suffering. Personally, I believe that it was written to show how we should live.

Let’s look at the Hebrew meaning of the names of Daniel and the three Hebrew children. Then, we will look at the Chaldean names given them by the king. The Hebrew name Daniel means “God is my judge.” It was changed to Belteshazzar which means “whom Baal favors.” The name Hananiah in Hebrew means “beloved of the Lord.” It was changed to Shadrach which means “illumined by the sun god.” The Hebrew name Mishael means “who is as God.” It was changed to Meshach which means “who is like Venus.” Finally, the Hebrew name Azariahs means “the Lord is my help.” It was changed to Abednego which means “the servant of Nego.”

In verse 8, we see that Daniel maintained his integrity and was promoted to positions of power, honor, and glory. The Hebrew children were influenced by Daniel because he followed God.

Daniel purposed in his heart not to defile himself by partaking of the king’s meat. Daniel requested something different to eat, knowing it could cost him his life. Even though we will suffer persecution, we should obey the Lord Who is our Judge.

Written by Labron Cason, "Time in the Garden Family Devotional"