Daniel 5:15

15 The wise men and enchanters were brought before me to read this writing and tell me what it means, but they could not explain it.

Daniel 5:15 in Other Translations

15 And now the wise men, the astrologers, have been brought in before me, that they should read this writing, and make known unto me the interpretation thereof: but they could not shew the interpretation of the thing:

15 Now the wise men, the enchanters, have been brought in before me to read this writing and make known to me its interpretation, but they could not show the interpretation of the matter.

15 My wise men and enchanters have tried to read the words on the wall and tell me their meaning, but they cannot do it.

15 The wise men and enchanters were brought in here to read this writing on the wall and interpret it for me. They couldn't figure it out - not a word, not a syllable.

15 And now the wise men, the enchanters, have been brought in before me, that they should read this writing, and make known unto me the interpretation thereof; but they could not show the interpretation of the thing.

15 The wise advisers and the psychics were brought to me to read this writing and tell me its meaning. But they couldn't tell me its meaning.

15 Now the wise men and mediums were brought before me to read this inscription and make its interpretation known to me, but they could not give its interpretation.

15 "The wise men and those who practice magic were brought to me. They were asked to read this writing and tell me what it means. But they couldn't.

Daniel 5:15 Meaning and Commentary

Daniel 5:15

And now the wise men; the astrologers, have been brought in
before me
For it seems they came not of themselves, or upon hearing his loud cry; but were sent for by him, and came by his orders, and were introduced into his presence by the proper officers: that they should read this writing, and make known unto me the
interpretation thereof;
pointing to the writing upon the wall: but they could not show the interpretation of the thing;
nor even read it; though it may be some of them might attempt to read it, and did read it in their way, as well as they could, or at least pretended to read; yet could make no manner of sense of it, which was the thing the king was intent upon.

Daniel 5:15 In-Context

13 So Daniel was brought before the king, and the king said to him, “Are you Daniel, one of the exiles my father the king brought from Judah?

14 I have heard that the spirit of the gods is in you and that you have insight, intelligence and outstanding wisdom.

15 The wise men and enchanters were brought before me to read this writing and tell me what it means, but they could not explain it.

16 Now I have heard that you are able to give interpretations and to solve difficult problems. If you can read this writing and tell me what it means, you will be clothed in purple and have a gold chain placed around your neck, and you will be made the third highest ruler in the kingdom.”

17 Then Daniel answered the king, “You may keep your gifts for yourself and give your rewards to someone else. Nevertheless, I will read the writing for the king and tell him what it means.

Cross References

• 1. S Daniel 4:18