Daniel 6:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Daniel 6:14
14 Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased with himself, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he laboured till the going down of the sun to deliver him.
Chapter Context
Daniel 6 is a apocalyptic and narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, love, covenant. Written during the Babylonian and Persian periods (c. 605-530 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Demonstrates faithful living under foreign rule during the Babylonian and Persian empires.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Daniel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Daniel 6:14
14 Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased with himself, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he laboured till the going down of the sun to deliver him.
Analysis
The king's response reveals his character: 'Then the king, when he heard these words, was sore displeased with himself, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he laboured till the going down of the sun to deliver him.' Darius recognizes he's been manipulated. The phrase 'displeased with himself' shows appropriate self-blame—he signed the foolish decree. His efforts 'till the going down of the sun' demonstrate genuine care for Daniel and desperate search for legal loopholes. Yet even royal power cannot overcome the irrevocable law's constraints. This illustrates human authority's limitations—even well-meaning rulers can be trapped by unjust systems.
Historical Context
The irrevocable nature of Medo-Persian law meant even kings were bound by decrees once issued (cf. Esther 8:8). This differed from Babylonian practice giving kings more arbitrary power. Darius's day-long effort to find legal escape demonstrates both his regard for Daniel and frustration with rigid legal constraints. Ancient Near Eastern kings typically consulted legal advisors, religious specialists, and historical precedents seeking ways around legal difficulties. That sunset marked deadline suggests execution was scheduled for nightfall—increasing pressure on the king's desperate efforts.
Reflection
- How does Darius's frustrated efforts teach about human authority's limitations when constrained by unjust laws or circumstances?
- What does the king's displacement with himself teach about responsibility—we bear consequences for unwise commitments even when manipulated into them?
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Mark 6:26