Daniel 6:10

Now when Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house, where the windows of his upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before.

Study Bible

Now when Daniel learned that the document had been signed
This phrase sets the stage for Daniel's response to the decree. The "document" refers to the edict signed by King Darius, which prohibited prayer to any god or man except the king for thirty days. The historical context here is crucial; the Medo-Persian Empire was known for its unchangeable laws, as seen in Esther 1:19. Daniel's awareness of the decree highlights his understanding of the potential consequences, yet it does not deter his faithfulness.

he went into his house
Daniel's house serves as a place of refuge and worship. In ancient Near Eastern culture, homes were often the center of religious activity. Daniel's choice to return home signifies his commitment to personal devotion over public compliance. This act of going into his house underscores the importance of private worship and the sanctuary it provides amidst external pressures.

where the windows of his upper room opened toward Jerusalem
The orientation of the windows toward Jerusalem is significant. After the destruction of the Temple, Jews in exile would pray toward Jerusalem, as Solomon had instructed in 1 Kings 8:48. This practice symbolized a longing for restoration and a connection to the covenant promises. Daniel's adherence to this tradition reflects his deep-rooted hope in God's faithfulness to His people.

and three times a day
Praying three times a day was a customary practice among devout Jews, as seen in Psalm 55:17. This regularity demonstrates Daniel's disciplined spiritual life. The number three often symbolizes completeness and stability in Scripture, indicating that Daniel's prayer life was a foundational aspect of his relationship with God.

he got down on his knees
Kneeling is a posture of humility and submission. In the Hebrew tradition, it signifies reverence and earnestness in prayer. Daniel's physical posture mirrors his spiritual attitude, showing his total dependence on God. This act of kneeling contrasts with the pride and self-exaltation of the officials who sought to trap him.

prayed, and gave thanks to his God
Despite the threat of persecution, Daniel's prayers are characterized by thanksgiving. This reflects a profound trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even in dire circumstances. The act of giving thanks in adversity is a recurring theme in Scripture, exemplified by Paul in Philippians 4:6. Daniel's gratitude amidst trials serves as an inspiration for believers to maintain a thankful heart regardless of external situations.

just as he had done before
This phrase emphasizes Daniel's consistency and faithfulness. His prayer life was not a reaction to the crisis but a continuation of his established spiritual discipline. Daniel's unwavering commitment to God, despite the decree, highlights the importance of steadfastness in faith. His example encourages believers to cultivate a consistent relationship with God that withstands external pressures and challenges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Daniel
A faithful servant of God and a high-ranking official in the Medo-Persian Empire. Known for his unwavering devotion to God, even in the face of persecution.

2. Darius
The king of the Medo-Persian Empire who was manipulated into signing a decree that targeted Daniel's religious practices.

3. Jerusalem
The holy city toward which Daniel prayed, symbolizing his connection to God's promises and the covenant with Israel.

4. The Decree
A law enacted by Darius, influenced by jealous officials, that prohibited prayer to any god or man except the king for thirty days.

5. The Upper Room
A private place in Daniel's house where he continued his practice of prayer, demonstrating his commitment to God over the king's decree.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Adversity
Daniel's commitment to prayer despite the threat of persecution teaches us the importance of remaining faithful to God in challenging circumstances.

Consistency in Spiritual Practices
Daniel's habit of praying three times a day highlights the value of consistent spiritual disciplines in maintaining a strong relationship with God.

Courage to Stand Alone
Daniel's willingness to stand alone in his faith encourages believers to have the courage to uphold their convictions, even when it is unpopular or dangerous.

The Power of Prayer
Daniel's reliance on prayer as a source of strength and guidance underscores the power and necessity of prayer in the life of a believer.

Thanksgiving in Prayer
Daniel's practice of giving thanks in his prayers reminds us to maintain an attitude of gratitude, regardless of our circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Daniel's response to the decree challenge us to evaluate our own commitment to prayer and spiritual disciplines?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate faithfulness to God when faced with societal pressures that conflict with our beliefs?

3. How does Daniel's practice of praying toward Jerusalem connect to the promises and hope we have in Christ?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to develop a consistent prayer life similar to Daniel's?

5. How can we incorporate thanksgiving into our prayers, even when we are facing difficult situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 8:44-49
Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the temple, where he asks God to hear the prayers of His people when they pray toward Jerusalem, connects to Daniel's practice of praying toward the city.

Acts 5:29
The apostles' declaration to obey God rather than men parallels Daniel's decision to continue praying despite the king's decree.

Philippians 4:6
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, similar to Daniel's practice of giving thanks in prayer.