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Babylon's Selective "Service"

Daniel 1:3, 4

Nebuchadnezzar's officials did not deem all hostages worthy to serve the king. They chose only a few of the best. The men selected had to pass certain tests:

1. They had to be young. The word in the original language usually means between ages 14 and 17— mature enough to be on their own yet young enough to be educated in new patterns of thought.
2. They could have "no blemish"—be without flaws or handicaps.
3. They must be strong and healthy—good-looking and well-built, fine specimens of young adulthood.
4. They were to be highly intelligent, knowledgeable, and able to learn. Daniel and his three friends met all these criteria.

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