What does the Bible say about Daniel in the lion’s den?

The account of Daniel in the lion’s den is found in Daniel 6. During the reign of Darius the Mede, Daniel distinguished himself above all other governors and satraps because an excellent spirit was in him. The king planned to set him over the entire realm, which stirred jealousy among the other officials (Daniel 6:1–3).

Unable to find any fault in Daniel, his enemies conspired against his faith. They convinced King Darius to issue a decree that for thirty days no one could petition any god or man except the king, under penalty of being thrown into the den of lions (Daniel 6:4–9).

Though he knew of the decree, Daniel continued to pray openly to God three times a day with his windows open toward Jerusalem, as was his custom (Daniel 6:10). His enemies caught him and brought the matter before the king. Darius was greatly displeased with himself for signing the decree, but the law of the Medes and Persians could not be altered (Daniel 6:14–15).

Reluctantly, the king ordered Daniel to be cast into the lions’ den, saying, “Your God, whom you serve continually, He will deliver you” (Daniel 6:16). A stone was placed over the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his signet. He fasted and spent the night without sleep (Daniel 6:17–18).

In the morning, the king hurried to the den and called out, “Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God… been able to deliver you from the lions?” Daniel answered, “My God sent His angel and shut the lions’ mouths, so that they have not hurt me” (Daniel 6:20–22). Daniel was taken up unhurt, because he believed in his God.

Then the king commanded that Daniel’s accusers be thrown into the den, and they were killed before reaching the bottom (Daniel 6:24). Darius issued a decree declaring reverence for the God of Daniel, “For He is the living God… His kingdom is the one which shall not be destroyed” (Daniel 6:26–27).

This account demonstrates God’s power to deliver His faithful servants. Daniel’s unwavering devotion, even under threat of death, reveals the importance of prayer, integrity, and trust in God. It also affirms that God honors those who honor Him.

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