Daniel 3:17
What does Daniel 3:17 mean?
A plain-English look at Daniel 3:17 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Daniel 3:17 means
With unwavering faith, the three men declared that their God, whom they served, was perfectly able to deliver them from the burning fiery furnace and from the king's power. This statement was a bold assertion of God's omnipotence, directly countering Nebuchadnezzar's arrogant challenge. They expressed a confident trust in God's ability to intervene miraculously, demonstrating that their refusal was not defiance for defiance's sake, but a principled stand rooted in a deep belief in their God's ultimate sovereignty and power.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out of thy hand, O king.
KJV
King James Version · 1611If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out of thy hand, O king.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949If our God, whose servants we are, is able to keep us safe from the burning and flaming fire, and from your hands, O King, he will keep us safe.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Lo, it is; our God whom we are serving, is able to deliver us from a burning fiery furnace; and from thy hand, O king, He doth deliver.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752For behold our God, whom we worship, is able to save us from the furnace of burning fire, and to deliver us out of thy hands, O king.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890If it be [so], ourGod whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver [us] out of thy hand, O king.
Context
This verse presents the first part of the three men's powerful declaration of faith, directly following their refusal to defend themselves. It is crucial because it articulates their deep conviction in God's ability to deliver them, setting a foundation of trust. This statement immediately precedes the 'but if not' clause, which will amplify their unwavering commitment to God, regardless of the immediate outcome.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Luke 1:37
For no word from God shall be void of power.
- Psalms 73:20
As a dream when one awaketh, So, O Lord, when thou awakest, thou wilt despise their image.
- Psalms 62:1
My soul waiteth in silence for God only: From himcomethmy salvation.
- Acts 20:24
But I hold not my life of any account as dear unto myself, so that I may accomplish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
- Psalms 121:5
Jehovah is thy keeper: Jehovah is thy shade upon thy right hand.
- Psalms 115:3
But our God is in the heavens: He hath done whatsoever he pleased.
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