All The Difference

Later in his expansive reign, Nebuchadnezzar faces a particularly crafty backlash from the priestly guild. They use the emperor's vanity as a means to show him they still can control the empire by manipulation. As a bonus, they stand to eliminate the 3 Jews who hold chief administrative power in the richest province. Hanaiah, Mishael, & Azariah are thrown from the frying pan of eastern politics into the literal fire. Of special interest is the manner in which the 3 Hebrews refuse to participate in sin. Their careful reasoning has guided conscientious dissent ever since. The miracle and Theophany rescue the faithful and allow Nebuchadnezzar to turn the tables on the true rebels in the story.