So 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 The king replied, "According to the law of the Medes and Persians the order stands, and it cannot be repealed." So they approached the kingThis phrase indicates the calculated and deliberate action of Daniel's adversaries. The Hebrew root for "approached" suggests a coming near with intent, often used in contexts of presenting a case or accusation. Historically, this reflects the political maneuvering common in ancient courts, where officials would seek to manipulate the king's decisions for their own ends. It underscores the theme of opposition faced by the faithful, a recurring motif in the Book of Daniel. and asked about his edict
The term "edict" refers to a formal proclamation or command issued by a sovereign authority. In the context of the Medo-Persian empire, such decrees were considered unchangeable, highlighting the absolute power of the king. This reflects the historical reality of the time, where the king's word was law, and it sets the stage for the conflict between divine and human authority. Did you not sign an edict
The act of signing signifies the king's personal endorsement and commitment to the decree. The emphasis on the king's signature points to the irrevocable nature of the law, a concept rooted in the legal traditions of the Medes and Persians. This phrase serves to remind the reader of the binding nature of the king's word, setting up the tension between Daniel's faithfulness to God and the earthly authority of the king. that for thirty days
The specific time frame of thirty days indicates a temporary but intense period of testing. Biblically, the number thirty often symbolizes a period of trial or preparation. This duration was likely chosen to ensure Daniel's downfall, knowing his consistent devotion to God. It reflects the calculated nature of the plot against him, as well as the temporary nature of earthly trials in contrast to eternal truths. any man who petitions any god or man except you, O king
This phrase highlights the exclusivity and idolatry inherent in the decree. The word "petitions" suggests a form of prayer or supplication, which in the Hebrew context is reserved for God alone. The decree's demand for exclusive worship of the king elevates him to a divine status, challenging the monotheistic faith of Daniel. This mirrors the broader biblical theme of the conflict between true worship and idolatry. will be thrown into the den of lions
The "den of lions" serves as a symbol of ultimate punishment and peril. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, lions were often associated with royal power and divine judgment. The threat of the lions' den underscores the severity of the decree and the peril faced by those who remain faithful to God. It foreshadows the miraculous deliverance that God provides, reinforcing the theme of divine sovereignty and protection. The king replied
The king's response is crucial, as it reveals his awareness and acknowledgment of the decree's terms. The Hebrew root for "replied" suggests a formal and authoritative answer, indicating the king's role as the ultimate arbiter of the law. This sets the stage for the unfolding drama, where the king's authority is juxtaposed with God's higher law. According to the law of the Medes and Persians
This phrase emphasizes the unchangeable nature of the decree, rooted in the legal traditions of the Medo-Persian empire. Historically, this reflects the rigidity of their legal system, where laws once enacted could not be altered. It highlights the contrast between human laws and God's unchanging truth, a central theme in the narrative. the order stands and cannot be repealed
The irrevocability of the decree underscores the tension between human authority and divine intervention. The phrase "cannot be repealed" reflects the absolute nature of the king's word, yet it also sets the stage for God's miraculous intervention. This serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty over earthly powers and His ability to deliver His faithful servants from seemingly impossible situations. Persons / Places / Events 1. DanielA faithful servant of God and a high-ranking official in the kingdom of Darius. Known for his unwavering commitment to prayer and obedience to God. 2. King DariusThe ruler of the Medo-Persian Empire who was manipulated into signing a decree that endangered Daniel's life. 3. The ConspiratorsHigh officials and satraps who were envious of Daniel and sought to eliminate him by exploiting his faithfulness to God. 4. The Den of LionsA place of execution used by the Medo-Persian Empire, symbolizing the ultimate test of faith and divine deliverance. 5. The Law of the Medes and PersiansA legal system known for its irrevocability, highlighting the tension between human law and divine sovereignty. Teaching Points The Cost of FaithfulnessTrue faithfulness to God may come with significant personal risk, as seen in Daniel's willingness to face the lions' den rather than compromise his prayer life. The Power of PrayerDaniel's commitment to prayer, even in the face of death, underscores the importance of maintaining a strong prayer life regardless of external pressures. God's Sovereignty Over Human LawsThe account illustrates that while human laws may seem unchangeable, God's sovereignty ultimately prevails, as demonstrated by Daniel's deliverance. Integrity in LeadershipDaniel's integrity and excellence in his duties serve as a model for Christian leadership, showing that faithfulness to God can coexist with secular responsibilities. Trust in Divine JusticeBelievers are encouraged to trust in God's justice, knowing that He sees and rewards faithfulness, even when human systems fail. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Daniel's response to the decree challenge us to evaluate our own commitment to prayer and faithfulness in difficult circumstances? 2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in situations where human laws or decisions seem unjust or irreversible? 3. How can Daniel's example of integrity and excellence in his secular role inspire us in our own workplaces or communities? 4. What parallels can we draw between Daniel's experience and the experiences of early Christians in Acts who faced persecution for their faith? 5. How can we apply the lessons from Daniel 6:12 to situations where we might face pressure to compromise our beliefs or values? Connections to Other Scriptures Daniel's Faithfulness Connects to Daniel 1, where Daniel first demonstrates his commitment to God by refusing to defile himself with the king's food. Divine Protection Relates to Psalm 91, which speaks of God's protection over those who trust in Him, similar to how Daniel was protected in the lions' den. Irrevocable Laws Echoes Esther 1, where the irrevocable nature of Persian law is also highlighted, showing the potential for human laws to conflict with God's will. Prayer and Persecution Connects to Acts 4, where the apostles face persecution for their faith, yet continue to pray and preach boldly. People Cyrus, Daniel, Darius, PersiansPlaces Babylon, JerusalemTopics Accordance, Alter, Altereth, Anyone, Anything, Approached, Besides, Cast, Decree, Den, Doesn't, During, Except, Fast, Fixed, Hast, Haven't, Hole, Injunction, Interdict, King's, Law, Laws, Lions, Makes, Medes, Media, O, Order, Pass, Persia, Persians, Petition, Prays, Publish, Repealed, Replied, Request, Revoked, Royal, Save, Saying, Seeketh, Sign, Signed, Spake, Spoke, Stands, Statement, Thirty, Thrown, Within, YeaDictionary of Bible Themes Daniel 6:12 5219 authority, human institutions Daniel 6:1-16 6126 condemnation, human Daniel 6:3-14 7515 anti-semitism Daniel 6:10-12 8027 faith, testing of 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 6:12 NIVDaniel 6:12 NLTDaniel 6:12 ESVDaniel 6:12 NASBDaniel 6:12 KJV
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