Daniel 1:19

Communed with them. When, at the end of the training period, the chief eunuch presented his graduates to the king, an examination conducted personally by Nebuchadnezzar proved the four young Hebrews to be superior to all the others. “In physical strength and beauty, in mental vigor and literary attainment, they stood unrivaled.” The manner of examination is not indicated. From a later description of Daniel’s abilities given by Belshazzar’s mother, who was probably a daughter of Nebuchadnezzar, we learn that Daniel was known to her as a man able to “explain riddles, and solve problems” (ch. 5:12, RSV). The questions asked may have required the explanation of riddles, which has always been a favored sport in the court life of Oriental countries. The examination also may have included the solving of mathematical and astronomical problems, in which the Babylonians were masters, as their documents reveal, or a demonstration of ability to read and write the difficult cuneiform script.

The superior wisdom of Daniel and his youthful companions was not the result of chance or destiny, or even of a miracle, as that word is usually understood. The young men applied themselves diligently and conscientiously to their studies, and God blessed their endeavors. True success in any undertaking is assured when divine and human effort are combined. Human effort alone avails nothing; likewise divine power does not render human cooperation unnecessary.

Among them all. This may refer to the other Israelite youths (v. 3) brought to Babylon along with Daniel and his friends, but doubtless also to the young noble captives from other lands who had received the same training as the Hebrews.

Stood they before the king. Compare v. 5 with ch. 2:2. That is, they entered the royal service. For similar usage of the words “stand before,” see Gen. 41:46; 1 Sam. 16:21, 22; 2 Chron. 9:7; 10:6, 8; (cf. Num. 16:9; 27:21; Deut. 10:8; 2 Chron. 29:11).