Chapter 5: The Golden Image

Time passed, and Nebuchadnezzar's pride grew.

He built an enormous statue of gold — ninety feet tall and nine feet wide — and set it up on the plain of Dura. Then he summoned every official in the kingdom to its dedication.

A herald proclaimed the king's command:

"When you hear the sound of the horn, flute, harp, and every kind of music, you must fall down and worship the golden image. Whoever does not bow will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace."

The music played. Across the plain, every official fell to the ground.

But three men remained standing — Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

Certain officials noticed. They had watched these foreigners rise to power, and jealousy had taken root. Now they had their chance. They went before the king.

"O king, live forever! You commanded that everyone bow to the image. But there are certain Jews — Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego — whom you appointed over the province. They pay no attention to you. They do not serve your gods or worship the golden statue."

Nebuchadnezzar was furious. He summoned the three men and gave them one final chance.

NEBUCHADNEZZAR“Is it true? When the music plays, will you bow? If not, you will be thrown into the furnace. And what god will be able to save you from my hand?”— Daniel 3:14-15

Their answer came without hesitation.

SHADRACH“We do not need to defend ourselves. The God we serve is able to save us from the furnace and from your hand. But even if He does not — we will not bow.”— Daniel 3:16-18