Daniel 3:8

Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews.

Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews - literally, ate the torn limbs or flesh of the Jews (cf. ; ; ; ). Not probably "the Jews" in general, but, as states, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. Why Daniel was not summoned does not appear. Probably he was in some distant part of the empire on state business, and the general summons () had not time to reach him before the dedication. Also, the Jews' enemies found it more politic to begin by attacking Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, who were nearer at hand, and had less influence, before they proceeded to attack Daniel. Moreover, Daniel was regarded by Nebuchadnezzar as having himself a divine character (), and therefore was not required to bow to the image.