Daniel Appeals to Another Authority

Daniel then appealed to Melzar, the officer in special charge of the Hebrew youth. He asked that the matter be tested by a ten-day trial, the Hebrew youth eating simple food, while their companions ate the king’s rich provisions.RR 171.6

Despite his concerns, Melzar consented. At the end of ten days, the result was the opposite of the officer’s fears. “Their features appeared better and fatter in flesh than all the young men who ate the portion of the king’s delicacies.” As a result, Daniel and his associates were permitted their simple diet during their entire course of training.RR 171.7

For three years the Hebrew youth studied, depending constantly on God’s power. It was not pride or ambition that had brought them to the king’s court; they were captives in a strange land. Separated from home, they wanted to perform well for the honor of their downtrodden people and for the glory of Him whose servants they were.RR 172.1

The Lord approved their purity of motive, and He “gave them knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” God fulfilled His promise, “Those who honor Me I will honor.” 1 Samuel 2:30. While Daniel was receiving human instruction in the duties of court life, God was teaching him to read the mysteries of the future and to record for coming generations, through figures and symbols, events covering history till the close of time.RR 172.2