Daniel 6:16 (KJV)

What does Daniel 6:16 mean?

Daniel 6:16 describes how King Darius gave the order for Daniel to be thrown into a den of lions, but before Daniel was cast in, the king expressed hope that Daniel’s God—whom Daniel faithfully served—would rescue him. The verse shows both the king’s reluctance and his recognition of Daniel’s unwavering devotion to his God.

In this scene, King Darius is reluctantly carrying out a law he was tricked into signing, which cannot be changed according to Persian custom. Daniel, a trusted official, is being punished for continuing to pray to his God despite the decree. The king’s words to Daniel reveal his respect for Daniel’s faith and a glimmer of hope that Daniel’s God might intervene.

The Aramaic behind Daniel 6:16

• "God" (אֱלָהּ, ʾĕlāh): This word is used for God in Aramaic, and here it highlights that the king is referring specifically to Daniel’s God, not the gods of Babylon or Persia. The distinction shows respect for Daniel’s unique faith.
• "Servest continually" (פָּלַח, pelach + תְּדִיר, tedir): The phrase means to serve or worship with ongoing, regular devotion. The king recognizes that Daniel’s faith is not occasional but a constant part of his life.
• "Deliver" (שֵׁיזִב, sheiziv): This word means to rescue or save. The king’s use of it shows he is hoping for a miraculous intervention, even though he has no power to help Daniel himself.

Why Daniel 6:16 matters

• Daniel 6:16 clarifies that King Darius did not want to punish Daniel and was distressed by the situation, which adds depth to the king’s character and the tension of the story.
• The verse highlights Daniel’s reputation for steadfast faith, which is so evident that even a foreign king acknowledges it.
• This moment sets up the dramatic rescue that follows and emphasizes the theme of God’s ability to save those who remain faithful, a key message in the wider narrative of Daniel.