Daniel 6:15-22 - Threw him into the lion's den

6:15,16

The plotters then reminded Darius again of his decree. Darius could find no way to get out of his decree, and so Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den. The king wished him well, saying “May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you”. Now these could be seen as mere empty words, or said rather fatalistically. There is also a possibility that having seen Daniel’s good character, the king was rather hoping that God might rescue Daniel. While considering it something of an outside possibility, he knew it was a possibility.

6:17,18

So a stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den, and was sealed by the king’s own signet ring. We can see some similarities with the tomb of Jesus having a stone rolled over it. The king returned home, but did not sleep or rest because he was concerned for Daniel, and maybe also felt guilt at his own actions. As stated, there are similarities between this situation and that of Pilate and Jesus, though Darius does seem to be of better character, and to have genuine concern for Daniel.

6:19-22

The king got up first thing in the morning and rushed to the lion’s den, hoping against hope that Daniel was still alive. He obviously had some faith that God might have rescued Daniel. So he called out to Daniel, and Daniel did reply! God had rescued Daniel. God sent an angel to shut the mouths of the lions. Daniel had acted faithfully before God, and he had also honoured the king. Daniel is an example of how to live a life that is faithful to Christ, and respects human authority in the proper way. We should also note that this did not mean a life free from danger!