10 The queen entered the banquet hall because of the words of the king and his nobles ; the queen spoke and said , " O king , live forever ! Do not let your thoughts alarm you or your face be pale . 11 "There is a man in your kingdom in whom is a spirit of the holy gods ; and in the days of your father , illumination , insight and wisdom like the wisdom of the gods were found in him. And King Nebuchadnezzar , your father , your father the king , appointed him chief of the magicians , conjurers , Chaldeans and diviners . 12 "This was because e e an extraordinary spirit , knowledge and insight , interpretation of dreams , explanation of enigmas and solving of difficult problems were found in this Daniel , whom the king named Belteshazzar . Let Daniel now be summoned and he will declare the interpretation ." 13 Then Daniel was brought in before the king . The king spoke and said to Daniel , "Are you that Daniel who is one of the exiles e from Judah , whom my father the king brought from Judah ? 14 "Now I have heard about you that a spirit of the gods is in you, and that illumination , insight and extraordinary wisdom have been found in you. 15 "Just now the wise men and the conjurers were brought in before me that they might read this inscription and make its interpretation known to me, but they could not declare the interpretation of the message . 16 "But I personally have heard about you, that you are able to give interpretations and solve difficult problems . Now if you are able to read the inscription and make its interpretation known to me, you will be clothed with purple and wear a necklace of gold around your neck , and you will have authority as the third ruler in the kingdom ." 17 Then Daniel answered and said before the king , "Keep your gifts for yourself or give your rewards to someone else ; however , I will read the inscription to the king and make the interpretation known to him.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Daniel 5:10-17
Commentary on Daniel 5:10-17
(Read Daniel 5:10-17)
Daniel was forgotten at court; he lived privately, and was then ninety years of age. Many consult servants of God on curious questions, or to explain difficult subjects, but without asking the way of salvation, or the path of duty. Daniel slighted the offer of reward. He spoke to Belshazzar as to a condemned criminal. We should despise all the gifts and rewards this world can give, did we see, as we may by faith, its end hastening on; but let us do our duty in the world, and do it all the real service we can.