Now it pleased Darius to appoint 120 satraps to rule throughout the kingdom, Now it pleased DariusDarius is often identified with Darius the Mede, a ruler mentioned in the Book of Daniel. Historically, there is debate about his exact identity, with some scholars suggesting he could be a title for Cyrus the Great or another regional governor. The phrase indicates Darius's satisfaction or approval, suggesting a ruler who is actively involved in governance and decision-making. This reflects the administrative style of the Medo-Persian Empire, which valued order and structure. to appoint 120 satraps
Satraps were provincial governors in the ancient Persian Empire, responsible for maintaining order and collecting taxes. The number 120 suggests a vast and organized empire, divided into manageable regions. This system of governance was advanced for its time and allowed for efficient control over a large territory. The appointment of satraps demonstrates the empire's emphasis on delegation and local governance, which is also seen in other parts of the Old Testament, such as in the book of Esther. to rule throughout the kingdom
The kingdom refers to the Medo-Persian Empire, which was expansive, covering parts of modern-day Iran, Iraq, Turkey, and beyond. The phrase underscores the vastness of the empire and the need for a structured administrative system. This system of governance ensured that the king's decrees and policies were implemented across diverse regions and cultures. The concept of ruling throughout the kingdom also parallels the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and ultimate rule over all nations, as seen in Psalms and the prophetic books. Persons / Places / Events 1. Darius the MedeDarius is the ruler who takes over the kingdom after the fall of Babylon. He is known for organizing the kingdom and appointing satraps to govern it. His leadership style and decisions play a crucial role in the events of Daniel 6. 2. SatrapsThese are the 120 officials appointed by Darius to help govern the kingdom. Their role is to maintain order and collect taxes, and they are part of the administrative structure that Darius establishes. 3. DanielA Jewish exile who has risen to a position of influence in the Babylonian and now the Medo-Persian empire. Known for his faithfulness to God, Daniel's integrity and wisdom make him stand out among the satraps and administrators. 4. The KingdomRefers to the Medo-Persian Empire, which succeeded the Babylonian Empire. This setting is crucial as it represents a shift in power and the continuation of God's plan for His people in exile. 5. The Event of ReorganizationDarius's decision to appoint 120 satraps and three administrators, including Daniel, marks a significant administrative reorganization of the kingdom, setting the stage for the events that follow in the chapter. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty in LeadershipRecognize that God is in control of all leadership and authority structures. He places people in positions of power for His purposes, even in secular governments. Integrity in the WorkplaceLike Daniel, Christians are called to demonstrate integrity and excellence in their work, standing out as trustworthy and reliable in all circumstances. Faithfulness Amidst ChangeDaniel's example shows the importance of remaining faithful to God even when political or personal circumstances change. Our commitment to God should remain steadfast. The Role of PrayerAlthough not explicitly mentioned in verse 1, the context of Daniel 6 highlights the importance of prayer in Daniel's life. Prayer is a vital practice for maintaining a strong relationship with God and seeking His guidance. Influence Through Godly CharacterDaniel's influence in the kingdom was a result of his godly character. Christians are encouraged to let their light shine before others, influencing their surroundings positively. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the appointment of satraps and administrators reflect God's sovereignty in the political realm, and how can this understanding affect our view of current political structures? 2. In what ways can we demonstrate integrity and faithfulness in our own workplaces or areas of influence, following Daniel's example? 3. How does Daniel's rise to power in a foreign land encourage us to trust God in situations where we feel out of place or marginalized? 4. What role does prayer play in maintaining our faithfulness to God, especially in challenging circumstances, as seen in the broader context of Daniel 6? 5. How can we use our positions of influence, no matter how small, to reflect God's character and bring about positive change in our communities? Connections to Other Scriptures Daniel's Faithfulness Daniel's character and faithfulness to God can be connected to Joseph's account in Genesis, where Joseph also rises to power in a foreign land due to his integrity and God's favor. God's Sovereignty The theme of God's sovereignty over kingdoms is echoed in the book of Isaiah, where God is depicted as the one who raises and deposes kings according to His will. Leadership and Integrity The qualities of leadership and integrity seen in Daniel are also highlighted in the pastoral epistles, where church leaders are called to be above reproach and faithful in their duties. People Cyrus, Daniel, Darius, PersiansPlaces Babylon, JerusalemTopics Appoint, Captains, Charge, Darius, Established, Hundred, Kingdom, Pleased, Princes, Rule, Satraps, Seemed, Throughout, TwentyDictionary of Bible Themes Daniel 6:1-3 5556 stewardship Daniel 6:1-4 5327 governors Daniel 6:1-5 8796 persecution, forms of Daniel 6:1-16 6126 condemnation, human Library A Tribute from Enemies
Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of his God.'--DANIEL vi. 5. Daniel was somewhere about ninety years old when he was cast to the lions. He had been for many years the real governor of the whole empire; and, of course, in such a position had incurred much hatred and jealousy. He was a foreigner and a worshipper of another God, and therefore was all the more unpopular, as a Brahmin would be in England if he were …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureFaith Stopping the Mouths of Lions
'Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy God whom thou servest continually, He will deliver thee. 17. And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed concerning Daniel. 18. Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting: neither were instruments of musick brought before …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Story of the Fiery Furnace
There was in the land of Judah a wicked king-named Jehoiakim, son of the good Josiah. While Jehoiakim was ruling over the land of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar, a great conqueror of the nations, came from Babylon with his army of Chaldean soldiers. He took the city of Jerusalem, and made Jehoiakim promise to submit to him as his master. And when he went back to his own land he took with him all the gold and silver that he could find in the Temple; and he carried away as captives very many of the princes …
Logan Marshall—The Wonder Book of Bible Stories The Jordan: the Decisive Start. Matthew 3:13-17. Mark 1:9-1Luke
3:21-22. The Anvil of Experience: knowledge only through experience--the Fourth, Daniel 3:25.--three Hebrews, Daniel 3.--Babylonian premier, Daniel 6:16-23.--George Mueller--Jesus made perfect through experience, Hebrews 2:10. 5:8, 9. 7:28, l.c.--all our experiences, Hebrews 2:14-18. Philippians 2:7. Hebrews 4:15, except through sin, Hebrews 4:15, l.c. 7:26. 2 Corinthians 5:21, f.c. 1 Peter 2:22. 1 John 3:5, l.c.--Jesus' suffering, Philippians 2:6-8. Hebrews 2:9, 17, 18. 4:15. His obedience, Luke …
S. D. Gordon—Quiet Talks about Jesus Appendix v. Rabbinic Theology and Literature
1. The Traditional Law. - The brief account given in vol. i. p. 100, of the character and authority claimed for the traditional law may here be supplemented by a chronological arrangement of the Halakhoth in the order of their supposed introduction or promulgation. In the first class, or Halakhoth of Moses from Sinai,' tradition enumerates fifty-five, [6370] which may be thus designated: religio-agrarian, four; [6371] ritual, including questions about clean and unclean,' twenty-three; [6372] concerning …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah The Early Ministry in Judea
113. We owe to the fourth gospel our knowledge of the fact that Jesus began his general ministry in Jerusalem. The silence of the other records concerning this beginning cannot discredit the testimony of John. For these other records themselves indicate in various ways that Jesus had repeatedly sought to win Jerusalem before his final visit at the end of his life (compare Luke xiii. 34; Matt. xxiii. 37). Moreover, the fourth gospel is confirmed by the probability, rising almost to necessity, that …
Rush Rhees—The Life of Jesus of Nazareth I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also-
OR, A DISCOURSE TOUCHING PRAYER; WHEREIN IS BRIEFLY DISCOVERED, 1. WHAT PRAYER IS. 2. WHAT IT IS TO PRAY WITH THE SPIRIT. 3. WHAT IT IS TO PRAY WITH THE SPIRIT AND WITH THE UNDERSTANDING ALSO. WRITTEN IN PRISON, 1662. PUBLISHED, 1663. "For we know not what we should pray for as we ought:--the Spirit--helpeth our infirmities" (Rom 8:26). ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. There is no subject of more solemn importance to human happiness than prayer. It is the only medium of intercourse with heaven. "It is …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses.
BY JOHN BUNYAN PREFATORY REMARKS BY THE EDITOR This important treatise was prepared for the press, and left by the author, at his decease, to the care of his surviving friend for publication. It first appeared in a collection of his works in folio, 1692; and although a subject of universal interest; most admirably elucidated; no edition has been published in a separate form. Antichrist has agitated the Christian world from the earliest ages; and his craft has been to mislead the thoughtless, by …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 A Cloud of Witnesses.
"By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau, even concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a-dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when his end was nigh, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.... By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they had been compassed about for seven days. By faith Rahab the harlot perished not with them that were disobedient, …
Thomas Charles Edwards—The Expositor's Bible: The Epistle to the Hebrews Divine Support and Protection
[What shall we say then to these things?] If God be for us, who can be against us? T he passions of joy or grief, of admiration or gratitude, are moderate when we are able to find words which fully describe their emotions. When they rise very high, language is too faint to express them; and the person is either lost in silence, or feels something which, after his most laboured efforts, is too big for utterance. We may often observe the Apostle Paul under this difficulty, when attempting to excite …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2 Daniel
Daniel is called a prophet in the New Testament (Matt. xxiv. 15). In the Hebrew Bible, however, the book called by his name appears not among the prophets, but among "the writings," between Esther and Ezra. The Greek version placed it between the major and the minor prophets, and this has determined its position in modern versions. The book is both like and unlike the prophetic books. It is like them in its passionate belief in the overruling Providence of God and in the sure consummation of His …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Daniel 6:1 NIVDaniel 6:1 NLTDaniel 6:1 ESVDaniel 6:1 NASBDaniel 6:1 KJV
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