Daniel 6:21 (KJV)

What does Daniel 6:21 mean?

Daniel 6:21 shows Daniel respectfully addressing King Darius after surviving a night in the lions’ den, wishing the king a long life. Daniel’s words signal that he is alive and unharmed, and that he still honors the king despite his ordeal.

Daniel is speaking directly to King Darius, who had reluctantly ordered Daniel thrown into the lions’ den because of a law he could not change. The verse captures the moment when Daniel responds from the den, reassuring the anxious king. Daniel’s greeting, “O king, live for ever,” was a common way to show respect and loyalty to a ruler in that time.

The Aramaic behind Daniel 6:21

• "חֲיֵה" (ḥăyēh, “live”): This word is a wish or blessing for life, often used in royal greetings. Here, Daniel uses it to show respect, even after being wronged.
• "עָלְמִין" (ʿālamīn, “ever”): This word means “forever” or “for ages,” emphasizing the wish for the king’s lasting reign. It highlights Daniel’s continued loyalty and the formal tone of his address.

Why Daniel 6:21 matters

• Daniel’s respectful greeting, even after being thrown to the lions, shows his character and the importance of honoring authority, regardless of personal hardship.
• The verse marks the dramatic turning point where Daniel’s survival is revealed, setting up the explanation of his deliverance in the following verses.
• Understanding the cultural context of the greeting helps clarify that Daniel is not flattering the king, but following a respectful custom, which adds depth to his response.