Daniel 1:17 –
God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meanings of visions and dreams.
During the “third year of King Jehoiakim’s reign in Judah” they were conquered by the people of Babylon. During this time Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were chosen to be advisors to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.
During this time these men rose to the top of the advisors. God helped these men rise to the top giving them wisdom and understanding; “ten times” over the king’s magicians and enchanters. Here God is using these men to help the nation of Israel remain whole during this occupation of their lands. It’s really fascinating when you look at the way God moves in this book.
These men’s story starts immediately defiling the kings orders by refusing to eat the “unacceptable food” he provided. This concerned their “chief of staff” who was afraid their disobedience would get him beheaded. They were willing to work with him during this time so they agreed for 10 days only to eat veggies and water. If they looked worse off, then they would agree to eat all the food provided by the king. As you might expect, they actually were healthier than the others after the 10 days.
When you think about it this is an example of why the Hebraic diet is actually what God intended for the best nutrition. They grew healthier while eating only veggies while the others did not. I think of the time I was on “The Makers Diet” and how good I felt. I could eat and be satisfied without gaining weight. If you are not familiar, “The Makers Diet” is a book by Jordan Ruben that explains the pure Hebraic diet he used to help him control his crohn’s disease. This chapter is actually testimony to the benefits of the diet.
Funny when I read this chapter I was thinking about “The Raw Brah’s”. These guys have befriended Vernie and she gets to seen them often at her work. She is at an organic food grocery store which they frequent daily. I have not gotten their whole story, but they have a Youtube channel (rawbrahs) that explores the benefits of a raw diet. These guys are passionate on their diet, which I believe started because of one of them needed open heart surgery. Check them out … they are living proof Daniels experience was “natural” and not God messing with his body during this time. Sometimes these “laws” are more than just a bunch of rules, but have actual scientific proof to back them up.
Please note – I do not feel if you eat pork or other foods not “Biblical” you are committing a sin, your just not using the BEST foods God intended for your ideal health.