דניאל, פרק א׳, פסוק ט״ו

At the conclusion of a ten-day trial period, a remarkable transformation became evident. Rather than growing weak or frail from their restricted diet, Daniel and his companions emerged in a physical condition that far surpassed that of the other youths [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Their overall appearance was noticeably healthier [אבן עזרא], characterized by two distinct improvements: the radiant quality of their faces and the physical fullness of their bodies [יוסף אבן יחיא]. They grew remarkably robust and heavy [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ], appearing much stronger than any of the boys who had been consuming the rich royal rations [מצודת דוד].

How a simple vegetarian diet could produce such robust health is a matter of debate among scholars. The primary approach views this outcome as a supernatural event, serving as a clear testament to the divine providence of God. Since seeds and legumes do not naturally build the body in the same way as meat and wine, their sudden weight gain and radiant health are seen as the result of a great miracle [מלבי״ם, יוסף אבן יחיא, ורב סעדיה גאון המובא באבן עזרא].

In contrast, another perspective suggests that a miracle was not strictly necessary, explaining the phenomenon through entirely natural means [אבן עזרא]. From a nutritional standpoint, their meals consisted of highly beneficial foods, such as rice and specific types of peas, which naturally produce healthy blood, brighten the face, and add healthy weight to the body. Furthermore, a profound psychological factor played a crucial role. When a person eats food with genuine desire and willingness, it benefits the body far more than food eaten with reluctance, even if the latter is objectively considered more nutritious. Because Daniel and his friends consumed their modest rations with a willing heart, the food was absorbed perfectly, providing them with extraordinary strength and vitality.