Daniel 6:14 (KJV)

What does Daniel 6:14 mean?

Daniel 6:14 describes how King Darius, after realizing the consequences of the law he had signed, became deeply upset with himself and worked hard all day to find a way to save Daniel from being thrown into the lions’ den. The verse shows the king’s regret and his personal concern for Daniel’s safety.

In this situation, King Darius is reacting to the news that Daniel has broken a law that cannot be changed, a law Darius himself was tricked into signing by jealous officials. The verse highlights the king’s distress and his efforts to rescue Daniel, even though he is bound by the unchangeable law of the Medes and Persians. This moment sets up the tension for what follows in the story.

The Aramaic behind Daniel 6:14

• The word for “sore displeased” is אֶשְׁתַּעֲנַס (’eshta‘anas, H7690), which means to be greatly distressed or upset. This emphasizes just how troubled King Darius was with himself, not just mildly unhappy.
• The phrase “set his heart” uses the Aramaic שִׂים (sim, H7761) for “set” and לֵב (lev, H1079) for “heart,” showing a deliberate and determined focus. Darius was not just wishing for Daniel’s rescue; he was fully committed to trying everything he could.
• The verb “laboured” is from הֲוָה (havah, H1934) and שָׁעַד (sha‘ad, H7712), which together mean he kept working or striving. This shows the king’s ongoing effort throughout the day, not just a single attempt.

Why Daniel 6:14 matters

• Daniel 6:14 clears up any idea that King Darius wanted Daniel to be punished; instead, the king is shown as deeply regretful and personally invested in Daniel’s fate.
• The verse highlights the powerlessness of even a king under the strict laws of the Medes and Persians, which could not be changed once enacted.
• This moment sets the emotional tone for the story, showing the king’s desperation and the seriousness of Daniel’s situation, which makes the later rescue even more dramatic.