The answer is: Pulses and water

Daniel 1:12

In the opening chapter of the Book of Daniel, we are introduced to the vivid picture of Daniel and his three friends—Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah—who are captured and taken to Babylon. Amidst their wealthy captors, they refuse the lavish diet of the king’s meat and wine, opting instead for a diet of pulses and water. Now, pulses refer to protein-rich foods like lentils and beans. It's believed that they chose this diet for health, faith, or both.

This dietary choice, while seemingly simple, hints at a deep connection to ancient Israelite customs, where the laws of clean and unclean foods governed what one could consume. Interesting trivia: Pulses are not only a modern-day superfood but also align with some surprising food enthusiasts today who advocate plant-based diets for health benefits!

Also worth noting, the story actually plays into the larger narrative of Daniel as someone who maintains his identity and faith in the face of cultural pressure. The number ten in "test us for ten days" has a strong Biblical resonance, reminiscent of how stories like the Ten Plagues or the Ten Commandments shaped the identity of Israel.

This moment illustrates a key theme in the Bible: choices matter, and the choices we make for our well-being and conviction lead to personal growth. Daniel and his friends model unwavering principles against overwhelming odds—definitely a lesson we can cherish in our own lives!