Darius is a name attributed to several rulers in the Bible, most notably Darius the Mede and Darius I of Persia. These figures played significant roles in the history of Israel during the exilic and post-exilic periods.

Darius the Mede

Darius the Mede is mentioned in the Book of Daniel as the ruler who took over the kingdom of Babylon after the fall of Belshazzar. According to Daniel 5:31 , "And Darius the Mede received the kingdom at the age of sixty-two." His reign is noted for the famous incident involving Daniel in the lions' den. Darius, influenced by his officials, signed a decree that led to Daniel's persecution for praying to God. However, after witnessing Daniel's miraculous deliverance, Darius acknowledged the power of Daniel's God, as recorded in Daniel 6:26-27 : "I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom men must fear and reverence 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."

The identity of Darius the Mede has been a subject of scholarly debate, with some suggesting he may be a historical figure conflated with other rulers, while others propose he is a literary figure used to convey theological truths.

Darius I of Persia

Darius I, also known as Darius the Great, was a prominent Persian king who reigned from 522 to 486 BC. He is best known in the biblical narrative for his role in the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem. After the decree of Cyrus the Great, which allowed the Jews to return to their homeland, the construction of the Temple faced opposition and delays. It was during the reign of Darius I that the work resumed and was completed.

The Book of Ezra provides insight into Darius's involvement. In Ezra 6:1-12 , Darius issued a decree that not only confirmed the original edict of Cyrus but also provided resources for the Temple's completion. Ezra 6:14-15 states, "So the elders of the Jews continued to build and prosper under the preaching of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah, a descendant of Iddo. They finished building the temple according to the command of the God of Israel and the decrees of Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes, kings of Persia."

Darius I's reign is marked by administrative efficiency and the expansion of the Persian Empire. His support for the Jewish people is seen as part of his broader policy of tolerance and support for local customs and religions within his empire.

Historical and Theological Significance

The accounts of Darius in the Bible highlight themes of divine sovereignty and providence. Darius the Mede's acknowledgment of God's power and Darius I's support for the Jewish Temple underscore the biblical narrative that God can use even foreign rulers to accomplish His purposes. These accounts serve as reminders of God's faithfulness to His covenant people and His control over the affairs of nations.