English (YLT) 1898 Young's Literal Translation by Robert Young
Daniel 3:14 — English (YLT) 1898 Young's Literal Translation by Robert Young
Nebuchadnezzar hath answered and said to them, `Is [it] a laid plan, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego -- my gods ye are not serving, and to the golden image that I have raised up ye are not doing obeisance?
What Does This Mean?
King Nebuchadnezzar is questioning Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He asks if it's true that they refuse to worship his gods and the golden image he has made. The key message is about standing firm in one's beliefs, even in the face of authority.
Explained for Children
Imagine your teacher asked you if you refused to play a game because you didn't like it. That's like what Nebuchadnezzar is doing. He's asking Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego why they won't play his game of worshipping his gods.
Historical Background
The book of Daniel was written during the Babylonian exile, likely by Daniel himself, who was a high-ranking official in the Babylonian and Persian courts. The audience was the Jews in exile, and the cultural setting was one where Babylonian gods were the dominant religious force.
Living It Out Today
Imagine you're at work and your boss asks you to do something that goes against your personal values. How do you respond? This verse reminds us to stand firm in what we believe, even when it's hard.
![Daniel 3:14 (English (YLT) 1898 Young's Literal Translation by Robert Young) — "Nebuchadnezzar hath answered and said to them, `Is [it] a laid plan, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-N"](https://www.biblera.com/v/english-ylt/daniel-3-14.jpg)