The charge against Daniel is a significant event recorded in the Book of Daniel, specifically in chapter 6. This episode highlights the faithfulness of Daniel, a Jewish exile in Babylon, and the challenges he faced due to his unwavering devotion to God. The narrative unfolds during the reign of Darius the Mede, who appointed Daniel as one of the three administrators over the kingdom, owing to his exceptional qualities and integrity.

Context and Background

Daniel had distinguished himself among the administrators and satraps by his exceptional qualities, and the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom (Daniel 6:3). This favoritism incited jealousy among the other officials, who sought to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs. However, they were unable to do so because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent (Daniel 6:4).

The Conspiracy

Recognizing that they could find no fault in Daniel's public duties, the conspirators decided to target his religious practices. They approached King Darius with a proposal to establish a royal decree that for thirty days, anyone who prayed to any god or man except to the king would be thrown into the den of lions (Daniel 6:7). Flattered by the suggestion, Darius agreed and put the decree in writing, making it irrevocable according to the law of the Medes and Persians (Daniel 6:8).

Daniel's Response

Despite the decree, Daniel remained steadfast in his faith. When Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day, he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before (Daniel 6:10). This act of devotion was a testament to Daniel's commitment to God, even in the face of potential death.

The Accusation and Consequences

The conspirators seized the opportunity to accuse Daniel, finding him praying and asking God for help. They went to the king and reminded him of the decree, emphasizing that Daniel, one of the exiles from Judah, paid no attention to the king or the decree (Daniel 6:13). Despite his distress and efforts to save Daniel, King Darius was bound by the law and ordered Daniel to be thrown into the lions' den (Daniel 6:16).

Divine Intervention

The narrative reaches its climax with divine intervention. The king spent a sleepless night, and at the first light of dawn, he hurried to the lions' den. When he called out to Daniel, he was overjoyed to hear Daniel's voice. Daniel answered, "My God sent His angel and shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in His sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, O king" (Daniel 6:22). Daniel was lifted from the den unharmed, and the king ordered the conspirators and their families to be thrown into the den, where they were immediately overpowered by the lions (Daniel 6:24).

Aftermath and Significance

Following this miraculous deliverance, King Darius issued a decree that in every part of his kingdom, people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. He acknowledged the living God who endures forever, whose kingdom will not be destroyed, and whose dominion will never end (Daniel 6:26). This event not only demonstrated God's power and protection over His faithful servant but also served as a testament to the influence of Daniel's faith on a pagan king and his empire.