The answer is: Pulses and water

Daniel 1:12

In the Book of Daniel, we see a fascinating instance of courage and conviction as Daniel and his friends—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—refuse the royal diet of rich food and wine. Instead, they choose simple fare: pulses, which refers to vegetable seeds like beans or lentils, paired with water. It's intriguing to note that this diet wasn’t just a personal preference; it was rooted in their commitment to their own traditions and health, reflecting wisdom even in the face of power.

Eating pulses instead of lavish meals is not only a nod to their heritage but also showcases a clever response to pressure. After just ten days on this vegetarian regimen, Daniel and his friends appeared healthier and more robust than those eating the king's food. This is a pretty cool reminder of how just a little determination can lead to big differences!

The choice of pulses also ties into a deeper biblical theme of health and sustainability. Ancient texts often highlighted the blessings of natural foods and moderation, even echoing the sentiment in Proverbs 25:16, which advises moderation in enjoyment. Plus, legumes are packed with nutrients, further signaling that divine wisdom may steer one toward a simple and wholesome lifestyle. Interestingly, the practice of a plant-based diet is gaining significant attention today, reflecting a timeless appreciation for healthier living that Daniel and his pals exemplified so many centuries ago!