Book of Daniel - Chapter 3 - Verse 5
Meaning
In Daniel 3:5, King Nebuchadnezzar orders that whenever music is played – specifically the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer – everyone must bow down and worship the golden image that he had set up. This command was a test of loyalty and obedience to the king, as well as a form of idol worship. The king wanted to ensure that all the people in his kingdom would show allegiance to him by worshiping the image he had erected.
Despite the consequences of not obeying this decree, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego chose to remain faithful to their beliefs and refused to worship the golden image. This act of defiance led to their imprisonment and the famous story of them being thrown into the fiery furnace, from which they were miraculously saved by God.
This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of staying true to one's faith and beliefs, even in the face of adversity. It also illustrates the consequences of idolatry and the dangers of blindly following earthly authorities instead of remaining faithful to God.