Daniel 1:19

19 The king talked with them. He didn't find anyone equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. So they began to serve the king.

Daniel 1:19 Meaning and Commentary

Daniel 1:19

And the king communed with them
He asked them several questions upon the several articles of literature in which they had been educated, to try and see what proficiency they had made; he discoursed with them on various topics of learning, that he might be able to form a judgment of them, and of their capacities, and what employments under him they would be most fit for, and capable of. This shows that the king was a man of learning and good sense, as well as prudence, to be capable of taking such a step as this: and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and
Azariah;
for their learning and knowledge: after the king had gone through the examination of all the youths, these four appeared to be the greatest proficients, and were accordingly taken notice of and distinguished: therefore stood they before the king;
ministered unto him, became his servants, and even came to be of his privy council, especially Daniel; see ( Proverbs 22:29 ) .

Daniel 1:19 In-Context

17 God gave knowledge and understanding to those four young men. So they understood all kinds of writings and subjects. And Daniel could understand all kinds of visions and dreams.

18 The three years the king had set for their training ended. So the chief official brought them to Nebuchadnezzar.

19 The king talked with them. He didn't find anyone equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. So they began to serve the king.

20 He asked them for advice in matters that required wisdom and understanding. He always found their answers to be the best. In fact, the men were ten times better than anyone in his kingdom who claimed to get knowledge by using magic.

21 Daniel served in Babylon until the first year Cyrus ruled over Babylonia. Cyrus was king of Persia.