John Calvin Commentary Daniel 1:16

"So the steward took away their dainties, and the wine that they should drink, and gave them pulse." — Daniel 1:16 (ASV)

After Melsar saw it possible to gratify Daniel and his companions without danger and promote his own profit, he was humane and easily dealt with, and had no need of long disputation. For an intervening obstacle often deters us from the pursuit of gain, and we refrain from seeking what we very much crave when it requires oppressive labor; but when our profit is at hand, and we are freed from all danger, then everyone naturally pursues it.

We see, then, what Daniel means in this verse, namely, when Melsar saw the usefulness of this plan, and the possibility of his gaining by the diet assigned by the king to the four youths, then he gave them pulse. But we must notice also Daniel’s intention. He wishes to show that we should not ascribe it to the kindness of man, that he and his companions could preserve themselves pure and unspotted. Why so? Because he never could have obtained anything from this man Melsar, until he perceived it could be granted safely. Since, therefore, Melsar consulted his own advantage and his private interest, and wished to escape all risks and hazards, we easily gather that the benefit is not to be ascribed entirely to him. Daniel and his companions obtained their wish, but God’s providence rendered this man tractable, and governed the whole event. Meanwhile, God openly shows how all the praise was due to himself, purposely to exercise the gratitude of Daniel and his associates.

Prayer:

Grant, Almighty God, since we are now encompassed by so many enemies, and the devil does not cease to harass us with fresh snares, so that the whole world is hostile to us, that we may perceive even the devil himself to be restrained by your bridle. Grant, also, that all the impious may be subjected to you, that you may lead them wherever you wish. Direct their hearts, and may we be experimentally taught how safe and secure we are under the protection of your hand. And may we proceed, according to your promise, in the course of our calling, until at last we arrive at that blessed rest which is laid up for us in heaven by Christ our Lord. — Amen.