Daniel 5:31
And Darius the Median took the kingdom, being about threescore and two years old.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Historical sources (Herodotus, Xenophon, Berossus) confirm Babylon fell to Cyrus's Persian forces in 539 BC, apparently without major battle—treachery or stratagem enabled entrance. The Bible's account of fall during a feast aligns with classical sources. The identity of 'Darius the Mede' remains debated—possibly Gubaru (Gobryas), Cyrus's general who governed Babylon; possibly an alternative name for Cyrus himself; or possibly Cambyses II. Regardless of precise identification, the historical fact remains: Babylon fell to Medio-Persian forces exactly as prophesied (Daniel 2, 5; Isaiah 13, 21, 44-45; Jeremiah 50-51). This fulfilled prophecy demonstrated Yahweh's sovereignty and encouraged Jewish exiles that restoration promises would likewise fulfill.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the overnight fall of 'impregnable' Babylon illustrate that no human power can resist God's determined purposes?
- What does the precise fulfillment of multiple prophecies teach about Scripture's reliability and God's sovereignty?
- Why does Scripture sometimes leave historical details (like Darius the Mede's precise identity) less than fully clear while emphasizing theological truths?
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Analysis & Commentary
The chapter concludes with stark simplicity: 'And Darius the Median took the kingdom, being about threescore and two years old.' This verse fulfills the interpretation's final element—'thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians' (v.28). The overnight transition from Babylonian to Medio-Persian control demonstrates prophecy's accuracy and God's sovereign control over kingdoms. Babylon, thought impregnable due to massive walls and substantial supplies, fell through stratagem (Cyrus's forces diverted the Euphrates, entered via the riverbed). The timing—during Belshazzar's feast—fulfilled Isaiah and Jeremiah's prophecies of sudden judgment. Darius the Mede (possibly Cyrus's general or governor; historical identification debated) represents the shift in imperial power prophesied in chapter 2's statue (from bronze to iron) and fulfilled in history.