Daniel was thrown into the lions’ den because of his unwavering commitment to God and because of a conspiracy by jealous officials. His faithfulness to prayer and obedience to God’s law brought him into conflict with a corrupt political system that sought to destroy him.
Daniel had distinguished himself under King Darius by his excellent spirit and integrity:
“Because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm.”
(Daniel 6:3)
This stirred jealousy among other leaders, who sought a way to accuse him. But they found no fault, except concerning his devotion to the law of his God:
“We shall not find any charge against this Daniel unless we find it against him concerning the law of his God.”
(Daniel 6:5)
They manipulated King Darius into signing a decree that anyone who prayed to any god or man other than the king for thirty days would be thrown into the lions’ den (Daniel 6:7). Knowing the decree had been signed, Daniel remained faithful:
“He knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom.”
(Daniel 6:10)
The conspirators caught him praying and brought the accusation to the king. Though Darius was distressed and tried to deliver Daniel, the law of the Medes and Persians could not be altered:
“So the king gave the command, and they brought Daniel and cast him into the den of lions.”
(Daniel 6:16)
God preserved Daniel:
“My God sent His angel and shut the lions’ mouths, so that they have not hurt me…”
(Daniel 6:22)
Daniel’s deliverance led Darius to acknowledge the true God and issue a decree of honor to the God of Israel (Daniel 6:26–27).
This account shows that God honors those who stand for Him, even at great personal cost. Daniel’s faith, courage, and consistency are examples of godliness in a hostile world.
