Daniel 6 Summary The Plot against DanielVerses 1–3 – A New Administration and Daniel’s Promotion Verses 4–5 – Jealous Conspiracy Verses 6–9 – The Irrevocable Edict Verses 10–13 – Daniel’s Steadfast Prayer Verses 14–18 – Reluctant Judgment Verses 19–23 – Divine Rescue Verse 24 – Justice on the Accusers Verses 25–27 – A Royal Decree of Praise Verse 28 – Ongoing Prosperity Daniel 6, one of the most popular chapters in the Book of Daniel, tells a gripping account of political conspiracy, unwavering faith, divine intervention, and ultimate justice. Set in the heart of the Babylonian kingdom, it explores the relentless courage and steadfast faith of Daniel, a servant of God, who faces perilous circumstances only to be miraculously delivered. Historical Setting • Daniel 6 occurs after Babylon’s fall (539 BC). “Darius the Mede” (5:31) is most likely Gubaru (Gobryas), Cyrus’s governor over Babylon, though some scholars equate him with Cyrus himself. Cuneiform texts (Nabonidus Chronicle) confirm a rapid administrative hand-over that matches the reorganization in verse 1. • The title “Satrap” (Akkadian: ḫašshāpâ) appears in Persian documents. Archaeology shows these officials collected taxes and provided local security—exactly the duties implied in the text. Persian Law and Irrevocability The phrase “law of the Medes and Persians” (v. 8) reflects a legal ideal that the king, though powerful, is bound by earlier proclamations. Herodotus (History 1.119) records a similar instance under Persian King Darius I. This explains the king’s helplessness and heightens the miracle. The Lions’ Den—Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Lion pits have been excavated at Babylon and Susa, featuring sloped entrances and upper openings for spectators. • Kings used lions for public executions and displays of power, echoing Assyrian reliefs that show hand-to-paw combat. Isaiah mentions such royal menageries (Isaiah 5:29). • Verse 17’s “stone was brought and placed over the mouth” is consistent with Near-Eastern practice; tombs, cisterns, and pits were sealed similarly to prevent escape. Daniel’s Prayer Habit • Facing Jerusalem (v. 10) follows Solomon’s dedication of the temple: “If they pray toward this place… then hear from heaven” (2 Chronicles 6:34-39). • Three daily prayers later became codified in Jewish tradition (Psalm 55:17). Daniel models consistent devotion that transcends changing governments. Angelic Intervention “My God sent His angel” (v. 22). Comparable rescues: – Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego (Daniel 3:28). – Peter released from prison by an angel (Acts 12:7-11). – Psalm 34:7: “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them.” Cross-Scripture Connections • Psalm 91:13 – “You will tread on the lion and cobra.” Daniel literally experiences this promise. • Hebrews 11:33 lists heroes “who through faith… shut the mouths of lions,” a direct nod to Daniel. • 1 Peter 5:8 warns that the devil “prowls around like a roaring lion.” Daniel’s rescue prefigures spiritual victory over evil. Literary Observations • The chapter forms a clear reversal pattern: accusation → condemnation → confinement → deliverance → vindication, mirrored for accusers in reverse. • The sealing of the stone (v. 17) recalls the sealing of Christ’s tomb (Matthew 27:66), setting the stage for a greater deliverance narrative. Christ-Centered Foreshadow • Innocent yet condemned. • A stone seals the place of execution. • Dawn discovery of life where death was expected. • Resulting worldwide proclamation (vv. 25-27). Daniel’s experience is an early picture of Jesus’ death and resurrection leading to global witness. Character Lessons 1. Integrity stands out: Daniel’s long-term faithfulness is recognizable even to pagans. 2. Predictable devotion: enemies could set their watches by his prayer schedule. 3. Quiet courage: Daniel does not protest the law or hide his practice; he simply continues. 4. Trust over panic: Daniel’s calm contrasts with the king’s distress (v. 18). God’s Supremacy over Kingdoms Daniel’s preservation under Babylon, Media, and Persia showcases God’s control of history. As in Daniel 2’s statue vision and Daniel 7’s beasts, empires rise and fall, but “His kingdom will never be destroyed” (2:44). Archaeological Echoes of Divine Titles Darius calls God “the living God” (v. 26). Cylinder inscriptions from Cyrus celebrate Marduk as “the great lord,” yet Daniel’s God outshines all, emphasizing monotheistic supremacy amid pluralism. Application for Today • Workplace integrity may draw jealousy, yet God honors faithfulness. • Legal or social pressure to privatize faith is not new; Daniel shows how to remain respectful yet unyielding. • Deliverance may be dramatic or subtle, but God’s presence is constant (“My God sent His angel”). • Public acknowledgment of God from unexpected leaders can follow courageous witness. Final Note on Dating and Authorship Internal Aramaic and Persian loanwords fit a 6th-century BC context, supporting the historicity of the account and the reliability of the narrative. Key Memory Verse Daniel 6:23 – “The king was overjoyed and gave orders to lift Daniel out of the den. And when Daniel was lifted from the den, no wound was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.”
The Plot against Daniel 1Now it pleased Darius to appoint 120 satraps to rule throughout the kingdom, 2and over them three administrators, including Daniel, to whom these satraps were accountable so that the king would not suffer loss. 3Soon, by his extraordinary spirit, Daniel distinguished himself among the administrators and satraps. So the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom. 4Thus the administrators and satraps sought a charge against Daniel concerning the kingdom, but they could find no charge or corruption, because he was trustworthy, and no negligence or corruption was found in him. 5Finally these men said, “We will never find any charge against this Daniel unless we find something against him concerning the law of his God.” 6So the administrators and satraps went together to the king and said, “O King Darius, may you live forever! 7All the royal administrators, prefects, satraps, advisers, and governors have agreed that the king should establish an ordinance and enforce a decree that for thirty days anyone who petitions any god or man except you, O king, will be thrown into the den of lions. 8Therefore, O king, establish the decree and sign the document so that it cannot be changed—in accordance with the law of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed.” 9Therefore King Darius signed the written decree. Daniel in the Lions’ Den 10Now when Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house, where the windows of his upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before. 11Then these men went as a group and found Daniel petitioning and imploring his God. 12So they approached the king and asked about his royal decree: “Did you not sign a decree that for thirty days any man who petitions any god or man except you, O king, will be thrown into the den of lions?” The king replied, “According to the law of the Medes and Persians the order stands, and it cannot be repealed.” 13Then they told the king, “Daniel, one of the exiles from Judah, shows no regard for you, O king, or for the decree that you have signed. He still makes his petition three times a day.” 14As soon as the king heard this, he was deeply distressed and set his mind on delivering Daniel, and he labored until sundown to rescue him. 15Then the men approached the king together and said to him, “Remember, O king, that by the law of the Medes and Persians no decree or ordinance established by the king can be changed.” 16So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the den of lions. The king said to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you!” 17A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the rings of his nobles, so that nothing concerning Daniel could be changed. 18Then the king went to his palace and spent the night fasting. No entertainment was brought before him, and sleep fled from him. 19At the first light of dawn, the king got up and hurried to the den of lions. 20When he reached the den, he cried out in a voice of anguish, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?” 21Then Daniel replied, “O king, may you live forever! 22My God sent His angel and shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, for I was found innocent in His sight, and I have done no wrong against you, O king.” 23The king was overjoyed and gave orders to lift Daniel out of the den, and when Daniel was lifted out of the den, no wounds whatsoever were found on him, because he had trusted in his God. 24At the command of the king, the men who had falsely accused Daniel were brought and thrown into the den of lions—they and their children and wives. And before they had reached the bottom of the den, the lions overpowered them and crushed all their bones. Darius Honors God 25Then King Darius wrote to the people of every nation and language throughout the land: “May your prosperity abound. 26I hereby decree that in every part of my kingdom, men are to tremble in fear before the God of Daniel: For He is the living God, and He endures forever; His kingdom will never be destroyed, and His dominion will never end. 27He delivers and rescues; He performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth, for He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.” 28So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrusa the Persian. Footnotes: 28 a Or prospered during the reign of Darius, that is, the reign of Cyrus Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 34:7The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them. This verse parallels the divine protection Daniel experienced. 1 Peter 5:8-9 Encourages believers to be alert and of sober mind, resisting the devil, much like Daniel resisted the pressure to abandon his faith. Hebrews 11:33 References those who shut the mouths of lions, highlighting Daniel's faith as an example for believers. Teaching Points Daniel's Integrity and FaithfulnessDaniel 6:4-5 highlights Daniel's exceptional character. Despite the jealousy of his peers, they could find no corruption in him because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent. The Decree Against Prayer In Daniel 6:7-9, the officials manipulate King Darius into signing a decree that targets Daniel's faith. This decree forbids prayer to anyone except the king for thirty days, under penalty of being thrown into the lion's den. Daniel's Unwavering Devotion Daniel 6:10 shows Daniel's response to the decree. He continues his practice of praying three times a day, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to God despite the threat to his life. Divine Protection and Deliverance In Daniel 6:22, Daniel testifies to God's deliverance, saying, My God sent His angel and shut the mouths of the lions, so that they have not hurt me, because I was found innocent before Him. God's Sovereignty and Justice The chapter concludes with King Darius acknowledging God's power and issuing a decree that reveres the God of Daniel (Daniel 6:26-27). Practical Applications Stand Firm in FaithLike Daniel, we are called to remain faithful to God even when faced with trials or persecution. Our commitment to God should not waver in the face of adversity. Trust in God's Protection Daniel's account reminds us that God is our protector. We can trust Him to deliver us from our lion's dens, whatever they may be. Live with Integrity Daniel's life exemplifies the importance of living with integrity. Our character should reflect our faith, making it difficult for others to find fault in us. Influence Others Through Faith Daniel's faith influenced a pagan king to acknowledge the true God. Our faith can have a powerful impact on those around us. People 1. Darius the MedeDarius is the king who rules over the kingdom and appoints Daniel as one of the high officials. His role is central as he is manipulated into signing the decree that leads to Daniel being thrown into the lions' den. The name "Darius" (דָּרְיָוֶשׁ, Dāryāweš) is of Persian origin, and he is often identified with historical figures such as Cyrus or a governor under him. 2. Daniel A faithful servant of God and a high-ranking official in the kingdom. Daniel is known for his exceptional qualities and his unwavering devotion to God, which leads to his persecution. The Hebrew name "Daniel" (דָּנִיֵּאל, Dānîyēl) means "God is my judge." 3. Satraps and Administrators These are the officials who conspire against Daniel out of jealousy. They manipulate King Darius into signing a decree that ultimately leads to Daniel being thrown into the lions' den. The term "satrap" (אֲחַשְׁדַּרְפְּנַיָּא, 'aḥašdarpanayyā') is of Persian origin, referring to a provincial governor. 4. Lions While not persons, the lions play a significant role in the narrative as the instrument of execution intended for Daniel. Their presence highlights the miraculous nature of Daniel's deliverance by God. 5. Angelic Figure Although not named, an angel is mentioned as having shut the mouths of the lions to protect Daniel. This divine intervention underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and protection over His faithful servants. Places 1. BabylonWhile not explicitly mentioned in Daniel 6, Babylon is the overarching setting for the events of the Book of Daniel. It is the capital of the Babylonian Empire, where Daniel and other exiles from Judah are living. The historical and cultural context of Babylon is crucial for understanding the narrative. 2. The Den of Lions This is the specific location where Daniel is thrown as a punishment for praying to God despite the king's decree. The den is a pit or enclosure where lions are kept, and it serves as a place of execution for those who disobey the king's orders. The miraculous survival of Daniel in the lions' den is a testament to God's protection and power. Events 1. Darius Appoints AdministratorsDarius the Mede appoints 120 satraps to rule throughout the kingdom, with three administrators over them, one of whom is Daniel. Daniel distinguishes himself by his exceptional qualities, and the king plans to set him over the whole kingdom (Daniel 6:1-3). 2. Plot Against Daniel The other administrators and satraps become jealous of Daniel and seek to find grounds for charges against him concerning the kingdom. However, they are unable to do so because he is trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent (Daniel 6:4-5). 3. Decree Against Prayer The conspirators convince King Darius to issue a decree that anyone who prays to any god or man other than the king for thirty days shall be thrown into the lions' den. The decree is written in accordance with the law of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed (Daniel 6:6-9). 4. Daniel's Faithful Prayer Despite knowing about the decree, Daniel continues his practice of praying three times a day, giving thanks to God as he had done before. The conspirators find Daniel praying and petitioning God (Daniel 6:10-11). 5. Daniel Accused and Sentenced The conspirators report Daniel's actions to King Darius, reminding him of the irrevocable decree. Although distressed, the king is bound by the law and orders Daniel to be thrown into the lions' den, expressing hope that Daniel's God will rescue him (Daniel 6:12-16). 6. Daniel in the Lions' Den A stone is placed over the mouth of the den, and the king seals it with his own signet ring and the rings of his nobles, ensuring that Daniel's situation cannot be changed (Daniel 6:17). 7. Darius' Sleepless Night King Darius spends a restless night without entertainment or sleep, deeply concerned for Daniel (Daniel 6:18). 8. Daniel's Deliverance At dawn, the king hurries to the lions' den and calls out to Daniel. Daniel responds, affirming that God sent His angel to shut the lions' mouths, and he was found innocent before God and the king (Daniel 6:19-22). 9. Conspirators Punished Overjoyed, King Darius orders Daniel to be lifted from the den, unharmed. The king then commands that the men who falsely accused Daniel, along with their families, be thrown into the lions' den, where they are immediately overpowered (Daniel 6:23-24). 10. Darius Honors God King Darius issues a decree to all peoples, nations, and languages, declaring that everyone must fear and reverence the God of Daniel, acknowledging His eternal dominion and power to rescue and save (Daniel 6:25-27). 11. Daniel's Prosperity Daniel prospers during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian, indicating God's continued favor and blessing upon him (Daniel 6:28). Lessons from Daniel 6 1. Faithfulness in All Circumstances 2. Integrity Shines Brightly 3. The Power of Prayer 4. God’s Protection is Unfailing 5. Standing Firm in Faith Inspires Others 6. God Honors Those Who Honor Him 7. Trials Can Lead to Greater Testimonies 8. God’s Sovereignty Overrules Human Schemes 9. Faithfulness Leads to Favor 10. God’s Glory is the Ultimate Goal Topics 1. Daniel's Promotion and the Jealousy of the SatrapsDaniel 6 begins with Daniel being appointed as one of the three administrators over the kingdom, and he distinguishes himself due to his exceptional qualities. The other officials become jealous and seek to find grounds for charges against him. ^"It pleased Darius to appoint 120 satraps to rule throughout the kingdom, with three administrators over them, one of whom was Daniel."^ (Daniel 6:1-2) 2. The Plot Against Daniel Unable to find any corruption in Daniel, the officials conspire to use his faithfulness to God against him. They convince King Darius to issue a decree that anyone who prays to any god or man other than the king for thirty days shall be thrown into the lions' den. ^"Finally these men said, 'We will never find any basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his God.'"^ (Daniel 6:5) 3. Daniel's Faithful Prayer Despite the decree, Daniel continues his practice of praying three times a day, giving thanks to God. His unwavering faithfulness is highlighted here. ^"Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before."^ (Daniel 6:10) 4. Daniel in the Lions' Den Daniel is caught praying and, as a result, is thrown into the lions' den. King Darius, distressed, hopes for Daniel's deliverance by God. ^"So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the den of lions. The king said to Daniel, 'May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!'"^ (Daniel 6:16) 5. God's Deliverance God sends an angel to shut the mouths of the lions, and Daniel is unharmed. This miraculous deliverance demonstrates God's power and faithfulness. ^"My God sent His angel, and He shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in His sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, O king."^ (Daniel 6:22) 6. The Punishment of the Accusers The men who falsely accused Daniel are thrown into the lions' den along with their families, and they are killed. This serves as a stark warning against deceit and malice. ^"At the king’s command, the men who had falsely accused Daniel were brought in and thrown into the lions’ den, along with their wives and children. And before they reached the floor of the den, the lions overpowered them and crushed all their bones."^ (Daniel 6:24) 7. Darius's Decree and Praise of God King Darius issues a decree that all people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel, acknowledging His eternal dominion and power. ^"I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. For He is the living God and He endures forever; His kingdom will not be destroyed, His dominion will never end."^ (Daniel 6:26) Themes 1. Faithfulness to GodDaniel's unwavering commitment to God is evident throughout the chapter. Despite the decree that anyone who prays to any god or man other than King Darius would be thrown into the lions' den, Daniel continues his practice of praying three times a day. This theme highlights the importance of remaining faithful to God even in the face of persecution. The Hebrew root for "faithfulness" (אֱמוּנָה, 'emunah) underscores trust and steadfastness. 2. Divine Protection God's protection over Daniel is a central theme, as seen when Daniel is unharmed in the lions' den. Daniel 6:22 states, "My God sent His angel and shut the mouths of the lions." This demonstrates God's power to protect His faithful servants, emphasizing His sovereignty and ability to intervene miraculously. 3. Integrity and Blamelessness Daniel's integrity is highlighted when his adversaries could find no corruption in him, as stated in Daniel 6:4: "They could find no charge or corruption, because he was trustworthy and no negligence or corruption was found in him." The Hebrew word for "blameless" (תָּם, tam) conveys completeness and moral integrity. 4. The Power of Prayer Prayer is a significant theme, as Daniel's commitment to prayer is what leads to his persecution but also to his deliverance. Daniel 6:10 notes, "Three times a day he got down on his knees to pray and give thanks to his God, just as he had done before." This underscores the importance of consistent and faithful prayer life. 5. God's Sovereignty Over Earthly Kingdoms The chapter illustrates God's ultimate authority over human rulers and kingdoms. Despite the king's decree, God's will prevails, and Daniel is delivered. This theme is reinforced when King Darius acknowledges God's sovereignty in Daniel 6:26: "For He is the living God, and He endures forever; His kingdom will never be destroyed, and His dominion will never end." 6. Justice and Retribution The theme of justice is evident when Daniel's accusers are thrown into the lions' den, as seen in Daniel 6:24: "At the king’s command, the men who had falsely accused Daniel were brought in and thrown into the lions’ den." This reflects the biblical principle of reaping what one sows, aligning with the Hebrew concept of justice (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat). Prayer Points Pray for the strength to remain faithful to God in the face of trials and persecution.Ask for God's protection and deliverance in difficult situations. Seek to live a life of integrity that reflects God's character. Pray for opportunities to influence others positively through your faith. As we reflect on Daniel 6, may we be inspired to live with the same courage and faithfulness that Daniel demonstrated, trusting in God's sovereignty and protection in every circumstance. Answering Tough Questions 1. How could Daniel 6:16 describe a miraculous survival in the lions’ den without violating observable natural laws? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Daniel's integrity and dedication make him a target in this chapter? Can you relate this to any personal experiences? 2. Discuss the role that envy and jealousy play in the actions of the satraps and administrators. How might you deal with such negative emotions? 3. How does the passage reflect the theme of faith under trial? What lessons can we apply in our lives when facing difficulties? 4. How does Daniel's response to the decree reflect his commitment to God? 5. What does King Darius's response to Daniel's situation tell you about his character and his feelings toward Daniel? 6. How does God's intervention in the lion's den affirm His protective love for His faithful servants? 7. How might you apply Daniel's unyielding faith and prayerfulness in your daily life? 8. Discuss the transformation in King Darius's perception of God from the start to the end of the chapter. 9. What does Daniel 6 teach about the consequences of deception and manipulation? 10. How can you use Daniel's example to respond when your faith is challenged? 11. Discuss the significance of prayer in Daniel's life and its relevance in today's world. 12. How does Daniel's faith influence those around him, particularly King Darius? 13. What does this chapter teach about God's justice? 14. How can this story inspire Christians to remain faithful amidst societal pressures? 15. What lessons does Daniel 6 offer for dealing with unfair situations? 16. How does King Darius’s decree resonate with the idea of God's sovereignty? 17. What can you learn from the way Daniel handled his trials and how can you apply it in your life? 18. How does the story reinforce the idea of God's omnipresence and omnipotence? 19. How does this chapter illustrate the concept of divine deliverance? 20. Discuss the role of trust and hope in the story of Daniel in the lion's den. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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