Daniel 5:15

15 And now the wise men [and] the conjurers were brought in before me [so] that they could read this writing [in order to] make its explanation known to me, but they were not able to disclose the explanation of the matter.

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 Then Daniel was brought in before the king, [and] the king {spoke} and said to Daniel, "You [are] Daniel {who are one of the exiles} of Judah whom my {predecessor}, the king, brought from Judah.

14 And I have heard that a spirit of the gods [is] in you and enlightenment and insight and excellent wisdom was found in you.

15 And now the wise men [and] the conjurers were brought in before me [so] that they could read this writing [in order to] make its explanation known to me, but they were not able to disclose the explanation of the matter.

16 But I have heard concerning you that you are able {to produce interpretations} and to solve riddles; now if you are able to read the writing and to make known its explanation to me, you will be clothed [in] purple and [a] necklace of gold [will be placed] around your neck and you will rule [as] third [in command] in the kingdom."

17 Then Daniel answered and said before the king, "Let your gifts be for yourself or your rewards give to another; nevertheless, I will read the writing to the king and I will make known to him the explanation.

Footnotes

• [a] Or "enchanters"
• [b] Or "interpretation"
• [c] Or "interpretation"