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Shadrach

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What is the meaning of Shadrach in the Bible?

Shadrach was the Babylonian name given to Hananiah, one of three Hebrew youths trained in the court of Nebuchadnezzar who refused the royal food and wine, opting instead for a diet of vegetables. He was later thrown into a fiery furnace alongside Meshach and Abed-nego for refusing to worship a golden image but emerged unharmed.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Shadrach's narrative helps readers grasp the theme of divine protection for those who maintain their religious identity and integrity under intense political pressure, illustrating the biblical concept that faithfulness to God supersedes obedience to earthly authorities.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Shadrach reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Shadrach in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Shadrach clarify?

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Shadrach." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/shadrach/
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