Daniel survived the lion’s den because of his unwavering faith and because God sent an angel to shut the lions’ mouths in response to his innocence and obedience. The account in Daniel 6 describes how Daniel’s enemies manipulated King Darius into signing a decree that prohibited prayer to anyone but the king for thirty days.
Daniel continued his regular prayers to God, fully aware of the consequences:
“Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home… he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God.” (Daniel 6:10)
As a result, he was thrown into the lions’ den. But God preserved him:
“My God sent His angel and shut the lions’ mouths, so that they have not hurt me, because I was found innocent before Him.” (Daniel 6:22)
This miracle displayed God’s power to deliver and His faithfulness to those who trust Him. Daniel’s deliverance also vindicated his integrity before the king and exposed the treachery of his accusers, who were later cast into the den themselves.
King Darius issued a decree glorifying God:
“He delivers and rescues, and He works signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, who has delivered Daniel from the power of the lions.” (Daniel 6:27)
The lion’s den serves as a powerful testimony that God honors those who remain faithful under pressure. It also foreshadows Christ, who was falsely accused, cast into a pit (the grave), and miraculously preserved by the power of God.
Daniel’s survival was not due to his own strength but because he trusted in the living God, who alone has authority over life and death.
