Daniel 6:7
All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions.
Daniel 6:7 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Daniel, we see the king of Babylon issuing a decree that for thirty days, no one in his kingdom is allowed to pray to any god or man except for him. This decree was a test of loyalty and obedience to the king. All the presidents, governors, princes, counsellors, and captains in the kingdom came together to establish this law, showing that it was a widespread and serious decision.
The consequence for disobeying this decree was severe - anyone caught asking a petition from any other god or man during those thirty days was to be thrown into a den of lions. This was a brutal punishment that would surely result in death, as lions were known for their ferociousness and skill as hunters. This verse serves as a reminder of the power and authority of the king, as well as the dangers of disobeying his laws.
Ultimately, this decree sets the stage for the well-known story of Daniel in the lion's den, where Daniel's faith in God triumphs over the king's decree. It also highlights the importance of staying true to one's beliefs, even in the face of great danger and opposition.
Theological Overview
Within the Book of Daniel, the verse about the decree issued by the presidents, governors, princes, counsellors, and captains, reveals a power struggle and political manipulation. The theological interpretation of this verse delves into the themes of idolatry, loyalty, and faith. By forbidding prayers to any God or man other than King Darius for a set period of time, it highlights the arrogance and pride of human rulers who seek to elevate themselves above divine authority. The word "consulted" emphasizes the deliberate nature of their actions, as they conspired to enforce this decree. A deeper word study into "establish" and "firm decree" shows the extent to which the rulers were willing to go to assert their dominance and control over the people. The mention of the den of lions as a punishment adds a sense of danger and fear, underscoring the consequences of disobedience. This passage serves as a reminder of the constant tension between human power and divine sovereignty, prompting reflection on where our true allegiance lies.
Daniel 6:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
All the presidents of the kingdom, the deputies and the satraps, the counsellors and the governors, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a strong interdict, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any god or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions.
World English Bible
All the presidents of the kingdom, the deputies and the satraps, the counselors and the governors, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a strong decree, that whoever shall ask a petition of any god or man for thirty days, except of you, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions.
Douay-Rheims
All the princes of the kingdom, the magistrates, and governors, the senators, and judges, have consulted together, that an imperial decree, and an edict be published: That whosoever shall ask any petition of any god, or man, for thirty days, but of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of the lions.
Geneva Bible (1599)
All the rulers of thy kingdome, the officers and gouernours, the counsellers, and dukes haue consulted together to make a decree for the King and to establish a statute, that whosoeuer shall aske a petition of any god or man for thirtie dayes saue of thee, O King, he shalbe cast into the denne of lyons.