The Chaldeans feel that the king needs to know that there are three Jewish men, occupying a very prominent position in the government of the country, who have not knelt down. They are Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego! The Chaldeans know that in their everyday life these three do not worship the gods of Babylon. They are men who insist that the Lord is the only living God. These three are already being looked at askance at the royal court. It is also clear from what we read that being a Jew causes annoyance to these important officials in the administration of the province of Babylon. How is it possible that people who do not worship Babylon’s own gods occupy such prominent positions? One gets the impression that these Chaldeans are eager to report the three young men to the king as violators of the king’s command.
12 There are certain Jews whom you have appointed over the affairs of the province of Babylon: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These men, O king, pay no attention to you; they do not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.”