Daniel 1–5 | Faithful in Babylon

In this Sleepy Scriptures One-Year Bible episode, we begin the book of Daniel with chapters 1 through 5 from the King James Version.

Daniel and his companions are carried from Jerusalem into Babylon, where they must learn how to remain faithful to God in a foreign land. Daniel purposes in his heart not to defile himself with the king’s provisions, and God gives him and his friends knowledge, wisdom, and understanding.

The story then unfolds through Nebuchadnezzar’s mysterious dream, the golden image on the plain of Dura, and the fiery furnace into which Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego are cast for refusing to worship another god. Later, Nebuchadnezzar learns that “the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men,” and King Belshazzar is confronted by the mysterious writing on the wall.

Settle in with gentle narration, soothing music, and peaceful visuals as Daniel chapters 1 to 5 remind us that God remains sovereign over kings and kingdoms, and that quiet faithfulness can endure even in unfamiliar and difficult places.

Highlighted Verses

Daniel 1:8

“But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat.”

Daniel 1:17

“As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom.”

Daniel 2:20–21

“Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his:

And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings.”

Daniel 2:22

“He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.”

Daniel 3:17

“Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace.”

Daniel 3:18

“But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods.”

Daniel 3:25

“Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt.”

Daniel 4:17

“The most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.”

Daniel 4:37

“Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven.”

Daniel 5:27

“TEKEL; Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting.”