PIULA THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE

Course Title: Apocalyptic Literature

Course Code: BS731

Major Paper: Daniel 6

Lecturer: Rev. Dr. Piula Samuelu

Name: Piula Leifi

Due Date: 15th November 2024

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Introduction

The Book of Daniel is found in the Hebrew canon under ketuvim (Writings), but under the
nevi’im (prophets) in the Christian canon, containing storylines that weave together themes of
faithfulness, divine sovereignty, and opposition to cruel authorities. Chapter 6 of Daniel tells the
well-known account of Daniel in the lions’ den, which is a powerful lesson in trust, integrity, and
divine deliverance. The chapter depicts a traditional conflict between a king and his counselors’
political ambitions and the obedient servant of God.

This study examines the historical backdrop, cultural context, and shedding light on the literary
context. Exploring also the textual interpretation along with my trying exegesis of the chapter in
regards of controversies of some heavy weight scholars of theology concerning Daniel 6. Lastly
its theological themes and the relevance to modern readers, together with an applicable
explanation towards the status quo that our society is facing, especially with in our own boarders
regarding the Methodist Church in Samoa.

Historical Context

The time period of Daniel 6 was during the reign Darius the Mede that began in the prior chapter
(5:31), a character whose historical existence is up for question. The story depicts the era of
Persian domination that followed the collapse of the Babylonian empire in 539 BCE.1 This is
reflected in the setting of the story: the Persians were renowned for their administrative
efficiency and relative tolerance of many cultures and religions.

This chapter’s events take place during the Medo-Persian conquest of Babylon in 539 BC and
shortly thereafter, most likely in the first or second year (539-537 BC). Under Zerubbabel, some
of the Jewish exiles had returned to Israel, and Daniel was around 80 years old at the time.

The social and religious life of the Jewish community was profoundly affected by their exile in
Babylon. The story touches on issues of Jewish loyalty and identity in a strange country.
Understanding the community’s hardships and resiliency requires an awareness of the emphasis

1
Collins, J. J, Daniel: A Commentary on the Book of Daniel. Hermeneia - A Critical & Historical Commentary on
the Bible. (1993).

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placed on upholding religious customs in the face of political pressure. Although some
academics contend that a second-century BCE chronology that takes into account Maccabean
battles is more accurate, Daniel is regarded as a product of a complicated historical setting and is
frequently dated to the sixth century BCE during the Babylonian Exile. Since Persia overran
Babylon and Darius rose to power, the events of Daniel 6 took place during the period of Persian
authority.

Cultural Context

The Persian Empire was known for its diversity of religions and cultures. This background
information is essential to comprehending the pressure Daniel experiences to follow royal
decrees that go against his religious beliefs. The story emphasizes the conflict between individual
religion and governmental power. The administrative procedures of the period are exemplified
by the legal elements in Daniel 6, such as the unchangeable nature of Medo-Persian laws. The
decree limiting prayer to Darius was likely aimed at consolidating power and suppressing
dissent, highlighting a significant tension between apostasy and fidelity to one’s faith. This
irrevocability is essential to the story because it establishes the conflict and divine resolution that
will undoubtedly take place.2

Literary Context

Literarily, Daniel 6 is part of a larger structure within the book that consists of narratives
(chapters 1-6) and visions/messages (chapters 7-12). The stories that focus on Daniel and his
companions in the Babylonian court are included in the narrative section (chapters 1-6), which
includes chapter 6. In Ancient Near Eastern literature, it frequently used court narratives, which
is how I strongly believe Daniel 6 is organized.

There is a clear introduction, increasing tension, peak, and resolution in this well-written chapter.
The Book of Daniel includes both narrative and apocalyptic literature. Chapter 6 is structured
similarly to the other stories in the book's first half, emphasizing the concepts of God's
sovereignty, fidelity, and divine intervention. Key ideas are reaffirmed and dramatic tension is
increased through the use of parallelism and repetition.

2
Steven D. Anderson, Darius the Mede: A Reappraisal Grand Rapids: Steven D. Anderson, 2014.

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The Book of Daniel was composed and finalized approximately 165 BCE.3 Daniel, the character
from the Book of Daniel, lived in the sixth century BCE. The Bible portrays him as an important
person during the Babylonian exile, supporting this conclusion. As a result, it's likely that Daniel,
the main character in the book, did not write or complete it. The Book was most likely finalized
around 300 years after the Babylonian exile.

The Book of Daniel was composed in two languages: Hebrew and Aramaic. The author of the
Hebrew and Aramaic narrations of the Book is unlikely to be the same individual, even if they
are bilingual. Before the Babylonian era, the people of Israel spoke Hebrew. Aramaic became the
spoken language during the Persian period. It seems that the Book of Daniel was written with
two distinct audiences in mind. It was most likely written in two languages, at two distinct times,
and in two different locations. This book is divided into two parts. Chapters 1 through 6 tell
stories in the first half, while chapters 7 through 12 discuss visions "which reveal the course of
history.”4

Structure

The chapter is structured around a series of actions and responses involving Daniel, King Darius,
and the satraps (regional governors):

 Daniel 6:1-3: Governors are established

The chapter’s structure highlights the contrast between Daniel, a devoted servant of God, and the
cunning officials who plot against him, according to scholars like Jürgen Roloff. The phrase “the
God of Daniel” is used repeatedly to emphasize Daniel’s special relationship with God. This

3
John J. Collins, The Apocalyptic Imagination: An Introduction to Jewish Apocalyptic Literature 2nd edition,
(Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1998) 85 – 89.
4
David S. Russell, The Daily Study Bible Old Testament: Daniel (Edinburg: The Saint Andrew Press, 1981),3 – 6.

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culminates in a strong affirmation of God’s sovereignty in the end, when Darius recognizes the
magnificence of Daniel’s God (Daniel 6:26-27).5

Exegesis of Daniel 6

Verses 1-3: Governors are established

Even when the government changed, as was shown in the conclusion of chapter 5, Daniel
remained popular with the king. The chapter opens with Darius establishing a governance
structure, appointing 120 satraps to rule throughout the kingdom, he also appointed three
presidents to rule over the 120 satraps. However, Daniel was distinguished among them due to
his exceptional spirit and administrative abilities. So the king planned to place Daniel over the
whole kingdom.

There is no reference to Darius the Mede in the Babylonian Chronicles. This Darius was the heir
of King Belshazzar, according to the Book of Daniel: “In the first year of Darius son of Xerxes
(a Mede by descent), who was made ruler over the Babylonian kingdom” (9:1). Three Darius-
named Persian monarchs are mentioned by Collins. The person who was famous for the
organization of satrapies was Darius I. The Book of Daniel describes and profiles Darius the
Mede, and Darius I seems to fit the bill: “it pleased Darius to appoint 120 straps to rule
throughout the kingdom” (6:1).6 This reflects the theme of God bestowing wisdom and favor
upon faithful individuals.

Verses 4-9: Conspiracy against Daniel

As Daniel’s reputation grows, the satraps’ jealousy fuels a plan against him that takes advantage
of his dedication to prayer. For thirty days, they convince Darius to issue an edict prohibiting
prayers to any other deity save himself. The conflict between obedient to God and civil loyalty is
perfectly captured here.

Verses 10-15: Daniel's Arrest

Daniel’s unshakable faith is demonstrated by his continued open prayer in spite of the decree.
His arrest leads to a dramatic confrontation between Daniel’s unwavering determination and
5
Jürgen Roloff. Daniel: A Commentary. Old Testament Library, 2009
6
Anderson, Darius the Mede:, 15.

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Darius’s powerlessness when he discovers Daniel’s innocence too late, highlighting the tension
between heavenly command and human authority.

Verses 16-19: The Distress of Darius

Daniel is unwillingly tossed into the lion's den by Darius, a place that represents both death and
perhaps resurrection. The mental struggle that arises when one's actions go against one's
convictions is symbolized by Darius's distress. He clearly believes in Daniel, yet he is bound by
his decree.

Verses 20-23: Deliverance by the Divine

When God intervenes and Daniel escapes unharmed, the story reaches its conclusion. This
miracle highlights God's dominion over creation, even in the face of danger, and supports the
idea that loyalty to God results in divine protection.

Verses 24-27: The Decree of Darius

Darius further connects the ideas of fidelity and divine justice with his post-deliverance decree,
which honors Daniel's God. The king's decree serves as an example of the life-changing effects
of seeing God's might.

Verse 28: Prosperity for Daniel

Daniel's success and a prosperous period under Darius' rule are confirmed at the end of the
chapter, serving as a reminder of the long-term benefits of loyalty to the only real God.

Themes

Faithfulness and Divine Deliverance

Daniel's constant dedication to his faith in the face of death serves as an example of the main
theme of faithfulness under trial. The theme of divine protection and participation is emphasized
by the amazing escape from the lions.

Power and Justice

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By comparing divine justice with human authority, the story examines the concept of justice.
Daniel’s accusers' fate emphasizes the biblical theme of fortunes turning around.

As an example for the Jewish community, Daniel is presented as a person of integrity and
devotion. Although he is first shown as an authoritative character, King Darius eventually
acknowledges the might of Daniel’s God, demonstrating a metamorphosis that supports the
story's religious theme.

Daniel 6 contains significant theological implications, especially with reference to divine

Daniel is a role model for believers who are subjected to persecution, according to scholars like
Craig S. Keener, who highlight the significance of fidelity in the face of suffering. In spite of life
threatening circumstances, the story exhorts readers to hold fast to their faith. Daniel was
miraculously delivered, which is seen as evidence of God’s involvement in the world and His
determination to keep His faithful safe.7

Status Quo: MCS

Theological themes addressing faith, honesty, and societal difficulties abound in the Book of
Daniel. Particularly in Chapter 6, the story of Daniel in the lion’s den which emphasizes the
tension between one’s own beliefs and social expectations offers significant insights. The themes
that emerge from Daniel Chapter 6 might provide insightful analysis and direction as the
Methodist Church in Samoa navigates current social concerns. Unwavering trust in the face of
hardship is the central topic of Daniel Chapter 6. Daniels faith is ultimately demonstrated when
he is sent into a den of lions, a punishment intended to put an end to his disobedience.

The Methodist Church in modern-day Samoa encounters difficulties that put its determination
and belief in God to the test. Tensions between the church's teachings and the dominant social
standards can arise from issues like social inequity, moral decline, and the influence of
secularism. Members are encouraged by Daniel’s tale to follow their beliefs and practice their

7
Craig S Keener, The Mind of the Spirit: Paul’s Approach to the Religious Other. (Baker Academic, 2016).

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faith in an honest way, even if doing so puts them at odds with social norms. In the midst of
contemporary challenges, the Methodist Church in Samoa places a high value on community.
Congregational community-building initiatives can contribute to the establishment of a strong
support network where people can confide in one another and get encouragement to maintain
their beliefs. Furthermore, the church may set an example of solidarity and fortitude by uniting in
prayer and action, just as Daniel did in the face of adversity.

Righteous leadership is a prominent concept in Samoa, where the Methodist Church engages
with the wider societal governance. The moral obligations of leadership in the church and the
greater community can be considered as the church promotes social justice. By opposing patterns
of corruption or moral ambiguity, the church can advance the notion that leaders, whether in
government or religious groups, should aim for justice and integrity. Through the promotion of
leadership roles based on the values of service and righteousness, the Methodist Church may
contribute to the development of a society with greater justice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Daniel Chapter 6 is set in a rich literary environment that spans historical time,
character development, thematic depth, and social and moral reflection. The nature of divine
intervention, the conflict between faith and authority, and the consequences of practicing one's
faith in a foreign country are all covered. By placing this chapter in its larger story and cultural
framework, readers can better understand its timeless message of faithfulness and hope in the
midst of hardship.

The difficulties that the Methodist Church in Samoa is currently facing are strikingly similar to
the theological topics found in Daniel Chapter 6. Church members may negotiate the difficulties
of society with the help of ethical leadership, hope in divine rescue, community support, and
faithfulness in the face of adversity. The Methodist Church can provide a powerful testimony to
the transformational power of faith and act as a ray of hope and integrity in the modern world by
living up to the values exemplified in Daniels story.

Bibliography
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Collins, J. J, Daniel: A Commentary on the Book of Daniel. Hermeneia - A Critical & Historical
Commentary on the Bible. (1993).

Steven D. Anderson, Darius the Mede: A Reappraisal Grand Rapids: Steven D. Anderson, 2014.

John J. Collins, The Apocalyptic Imagination: An Introduction to Jewish Apocalyptic Literature 2nd
edition, (Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1998) .

David S. Russell, The Daily Study Bible Old Testament: Daniel (Edinburg: The Saint Andrew Press,
1981).

Jürgen Roloff. Daniel: A Commentary. Old Testament Library, 2009

Craig S Keener, The Mind of the Spirit: Paul’s Approach to the Religious Other. (Baker Academic, 2016).