Commentary on Daniel 6:6

Verse Text: "Then these presidents and princes assembled together to the king, and said thus unto him, King Darius, live for ever." (Daniel 6:6, KJV)

Introduction

The narrative in Daniel 6 unfolds a critical moment in the life of Daniel and is pivotal in illustrating his integrity and the challenges of living faithfully in a secular society. This verse sets the stage for the conspiracy against Daniel, initiated by those who envy his position and character. The focus here is the assembly of the presidents and princes before King Darius, aiming to manipulate and influence the king for their own ends.

Contextual Background

Daniel had risen to prominence in the administrative ranks of the Babylonian and subsequently Medo-Persian empires. His exceptional qualities made him a target of jealousy. The verse reflects a significant shift in the power dynamics surrounding Daniel. Commentators observe that the priests and nobles recognized Daniel's favor in the eyes of the king and sought to eliminate him as a rival.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry outlines that the assembly’s primary motivation is jealousy. They recognized Daniel's elevated status and sought to conspire against him. Henry notes that this serves as a reminder that righteousness often attracts hostility.

• Jealousy Among Rulers: The rulers' desire to dethrone Daniel reflects a common human tendency to resist the success of others.
• The Flattery of Kings: The phrase “King Darius, live forever” is presented as an example of flattery. It highlights how those seeking advantage often resort to insincere praise.

Albert Barnes’ Commentary

Albert Barnes emphasizes the political machinations at play. He illustrates the term “assembled together” indicating a deliberate and collective effort to undermine Daniel. Barnes notes that such conspiracies are a common theme in governance:

• Collective Conspiracy: The political strategy of the leaders is notable here; they unite against a shared enemy, which reflects the nature of power struggles, both in ancient and modern times.
• King Darius’ Role: Barnes points out that Darius, although a monarch, is being swayed by those in his court. This portrays the vulnerability of leaders to influence, particularly when their advisors are self-serving.

Adam Clarke's Perspective

Adam Clarke provides a theological insight into the significance of this verse in relation to divine providence. He contemplates why God allows such adversities to arise against His faithful servants:

• Daniel's Integrity: Clarke underscores that Daniel’s commitment to his faith makes him a target for envy and deceit, suggesting that faithfulness can lead to trials.
• God's Sovereignty: Clarke argues that the unfolding events are part of God’s sovereign plan. The adversities faced by Daniel ultimately led to greater testimony and a declaration of God’s power.

Theological Reflections

From theological perspectives, Daniel 6:6 serves as an important reminder of the complexities within leadership and the interactions between faithful individuals and a predominantly corrupt society. It prompts discussions on the following themes:

• Sovereignty of God: Throughout the book of Daniel, there is a profound emphasis on God's control over earthly kingdoms. The events leading to Daniel's trial ultimately serve to glorify God.
• The Nature of Righteousness: Daniel epitomizes how a righteous life stands in sharp contrast to the self-serving actions of those around him. His integrity leads to personal trials but also to his ultimate vindication.

Conclusion

Daniel 6:6 provides a succinct yet powerful introduction to the confrontation between integrity and jealousy, highlighting the societal dynamics that often lead to conflict. The insights from public domain commentaries illuminate how this verse serves not just as a historical narrative but as a rich resource for understanding the spiritual and moral struggles that persist in governing societies today. As Daniel remains steadfast in faith, believers are encouraged to hold fast to their principles even when faced with adversity.