The account of Darius appointing administrators is found in the Book of Daniel, specifically in Daniel 6. This event occurs during the reign of Darius the Mede, who is identified as the ruler over the kingdom of Babylon following the fall of Belshazzar. The narrative highlights the administrative organization of the kingdom and the role of Daniel, a prominent Jewish exile, within this structure.

Historical Context

Darius the Mede is a figure whose historical identity has been the subject of scholarly debate. Some conservative scholars suggest that Darius may be another name for Gubaru, a governor under Cyrus the Great, or possibly a title for Cyrus himself. Regardless of his precise identity, Darius is depicted as a ruler who values order and effective governance.

Administrative Structure

According to Daniel 6:1-2 , "Now it pleased Darius to appoint 120 satraps to rule throughout the kingdom, and over them three administrators, including Daniel, to whom these satraps were accountable so that the king would not suffer loss." This structure was designed to ensure efficient management and to protect the king's interests by preventing corruption and loss.

Daniel's Prominence

Daniel, known for his wisdom and integrity, was one of the three administrators and quickly distinguished himself. Daniel 6:3 states, "Soon, by his extraordinary spirit, Daniel distinguished himself among the administrators and satraps, so that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom." Daniel's exceptional qualities earned him favor with Darius, leading to plans for his promotion.

Jealousy and Conspiracy

Daniel's rise, however, incited jealousy among the other administrators and satraps. They sought to find grounds for charges against him concerning the kingdom, but they could find no corruption in him, as he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent (Daniel 6:4). This led them to devise a plot targeting Daniel's faithfulness to his God.

The Decree and Daniel's Faithfulness

The conspirators convinced Darius to issue a decree that for thirty days, anyone who prayed to any god or man other than the king would be thrown into the lions' den (Daniel 6:7-9). Despite the decree, Daniel continued his practice of praying three times a day with his windows open toward Jerusalem, demonstrating his unwavering devotion to God (Daniel 6:10).

Darius's Dilemma and Daniel's Deliverance

When Daniel's disobedience to the decree was reported, Darius was distressed, as he valued Daniel highly. Nevertheless, bound by the irrevocable law of the Medes and Persians, he reluctantly ordered Daniel to be thrown into the lions' den (Daniel 6:14-16). The king expressed hope that Daniel's God would deliver him.

Miraculously, God sent an angel to shut the lions' mouths, and Daniel emerged unharmed the next morning (Daniel 6:22). Overjoyed, Darius ordered Daniel's accusers to be thrown into the den, where they met the fate they had intended for Daniel (Daniel 6:24).

Darius's Decree and Acknowledgment of God

Following Daniel's deliverance, Darius issued a decree acknowledging the power of Daniel's God. Daniel 6:26-27 records the king's proclamation: "I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. For He is the living God, and He endures forever; His kingdom will never be destroyed, and His dominion will never end. He rescues and delivers; He performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth, for He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions."

This account underscores the themes of divine sovereignty, the faithfulness of God's servants, and the ultimate triumph of righteousness over evil. Daniel's steadfastness serves as an enduring example of faith and integrity in the face of persecution.