What is the meaning of Daniel 6:2? Over Them “and over them…” • Darius the Mede has just appointed 120 satraps (v. 1). Over those officials he sets a second, smaller tier of leadership. • Scripture often shows God working through orderly structures of authority—see Exodus 18:21 where Moses chooses capable men to serve as leaders over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens. • Good order protects against chaos and corruption (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:40). Three Administrators “…three administrators…” • A triad of overseers ensures checks and balances. With three, no single man can dominate, yet decisions can still be made efficiently (cf. Ecclesiastes 4:12). • The principle that “in an abundance of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14) is on display. • This structure mirrors Joseph’s rise in Egypt (Genesis 41:39-41) and foreshadows the New Testament pattern of multiple elders in a church (Acts 14:23). Including Daniel “…including Daniel…” • Despite regime change—from Babylonian to Median rule—Daniel’s integrity secures his place (Daniel 5:30-6:1). God honors faithfulness regardless of shifting political winds (Psalm 75:6-7). • Daniel’s record: – Refused defilement (Daniel 1:8) – Served with “an extraordinary spirit” (Daniel 5:12) – Gave God glory in public (Daniel 2:28, 4:34-37) • His consistent life makes him indispensable, illustrating 1 Samuel 2:30: “Those who honor Me I will honor.” To Whom These Satraps Were Accountable “…to whom these satraps were accountable…” • Accountability lines are clear: satraps report to administrators, administrators to the king. • Proper oversight curbs temptation (cf. 2 Chronicles 19:5-7, where Jehoshaphat appoints judges and warns them to judge faithfully). • Believers today benefit from similar accountability—Galatians 6:1-2 calls us to bear one another’s burdens and restore each other gently. So That the King Would Not Suffer Loss “…so that the king would not suffer loss.” • The goal is protection of the realm’s resources—taxes, tribute, and public peace. • Leaders who fear God and act justly preserve prosperity; negligence drains it (Proverbs 29:2, 4). • Spiritually, God appoints stewards in His church “so that there will be no loss” of truth or people (John 6:39; Acts 20:28-30). • Daniel’s presence guarantees honesty; the later conspiracy of jealous officials (Daniel 6:4-5) confirms his unique trustworthiness. summary Daniel 6:2 shows God’s hand shaping a wise governmental structure: • 120 local officials answer to three seasoned administrators. • Daniel, a proven servant of the Most High, stands out among them. • Clear accountability safeguards the king’s interests and the people’s welfare. The verse reminds us that integrity, order, and vigilance are God-honoring tools for preserving both earthly and eternal treasures. |
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