Daniel 6:1

KJV

¶ It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom;

KJV (with Strong's)

It pleased {H6925}{H8232} Darius {H1868} to set {H6966} over {H5922} the kingdom {H4437} an hundred {H3969} and twenty {H6243} princes {H324}, which should be {H1934} over the whole {H3606} kingdom {H4437};

Complete Jewish Bible

Daryavesh decided to set over the kingdom 120 viceroys to rule throughout the entire kingdom,

Berean Standard Bible

Now it pleased Darius to appoint 120 satraps to rule throughout the kingdom,

American Standard Version

It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom a hundred and twenty satraps, who should be throughout the whole kingdom;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 6:1 introduces the administrative restructuring of the vast Medo-Persian Empire under King Darius, who, having recently acquired the former Babylonian territories, strategically appointed one hundred and twenty high-ranking officials to govern the entire kingdom. This foundational verse meticulously establishes the new imperial context and administrative framework, setting the stage for the dramatic events of Daniel's life, including his elevation within this system and the subsequent conspiracy that leads to his trial in the lions' den, thereby highlighting the seamless transition of power and the meticulous establishment of new governance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 6:1 immediately follows the climactic narrative of Babylon's fall and the death of King Belshazzar, as vividly described in [Daniel 5:30-31](/daniel/5-30-31 "Daniel 5:30-31 - The Fall of Babylon and Belshazzar's Death"). This verse marks a crucial turning point in the book, signifying the definitive transition of imperial power from the Babylonian Empire to the Medo-Persian Empire. It serves as the narrative's opening scene for the celebrated account of Daniel in the lions' den, laying the administrative groundwork for Daniel's continued prominence and the challenges he faces under this new regime. The detailed description of the new governmental structure is not merely historical background; it is indispensable for comprehending the subsequent plot, particularly the jealousy and conspiracy against Daniel that directly arises from his elevated position within this very system, as further elaborated in [Daniel 6:2-4](/daniel/6-2-4 "Daniel 6:2-4 - Daniel's Elevation and the Conspiracy").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Following the swift conquest of Babylon by the Medes and Persians, traditionally dated to 539 BC, the new empire, under the leadership of Darius the Mede, immediately embarked on the critical task of consolidating its vast and diverse territories. The appointment of "an hundred and twenty princes" reflects the established administrative practices of large ancient empires, particularly the Persian Empire, which was renowned for its sophisticated and highly organized provincial system. These "princes" (Aramaic: _achashdarpan_) were essentially satraps or provincial governors, each entrusted with significant authority over a specific region or province. Their comprehensive duties included maintaining law and order, administering justice, overseeing local economies, and collecting taxes, all while reporting to a centralized authority. This hierarchical and decentralized administrative structure was vital for effectively governing an empire that spanned vast geographical expanses and encompassed numerous distinct peoples, ensuring both control and the efficient extraction of resources from the conquered lands.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of Daniel. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **God's sovereignty over earthly kingdoms**. The swift and decisive transition of power from Babylon to Media-Persia, precisely as foretold in [Nebuchadnezzar's dream of four kingdoms in Daniel 2](/daniel/2 "Daniel 2 - Nebuchadnezzar's Dream of Four Kingdoms") and [Daniel's vision of four beasts in Daniel 7](/daniel/7 "Daniel 7 - Daniel's Vision of Four Beasts"), demonstrates that human empires rise and fall not merely by human will or military might, but according to God's divine and immutable plan. As [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons") profoundly declares, God "removes kings and sets up kings." Secondly, the verse highlights the **importance of wise and effective administration** in governing a vast dominion, a characteristic that Daniel himself exemplifies throughout his career. Lastly, the meticulous establishment of this new administrative system is absolutely critical for **setting the stage for Daniel's remarkable elevation and the subsequent testing of his unwavering faithfulness**. The very structure designed for imperial control becomes the backdrop for a divine demonstration of God's power to deliver His loyal servant amidst intense political intrigue and human jealousy, as the narrative dramatically unfolds in [Daniel 6](/daniel/6 "Daniel 6 - Daniel in the Lions' Den").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Darius (Aramaic, _Dârᵉyâvêsh'_):** This term, according to the provided data, refers to a title rather than a personal name, associated with several Persian kings. In the context of Daniel 6:1, it identifies the new ruler of the Medo-Persian Empire who succeeded Belshazzar. The mention of "Darius" signifies the pivotal shift in imperial power and the establishment of a new political order under his supreme authority, initiating a new era of governance.
* **princes (Aramaic, _ʼăchashdarpan'_):** This Aramaic word specifically denotes a satrap or governor of a major province within the Persian Empire. These officials wielded significant administrative and executive power within their assigned territories, being responsible for local governance, the enforcement of law, and the collection of revenue. Their appointment by Darius underscores the systematic, comprehensive, and hierarchical nature of the new imperial administration, indicating a well-structured system of control.
* **kingdom (Aramaic, _malkûw'_):** This term refers to dominion, encompassing both the abstract concept of kingship or reign and, more concretely, the realm or territory over which a king rules. In Daniel 6:1, it specifically refers to the vast territory recently conquered by Darius, which now encompasses the former Babylonian Empire. The repeated use of "kingdom" throughout the verse emphasizes the immense scope of Darius's authority and the extensive administrative task he undertakes to consolidate and manage this newly acquired dominion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom":** This opening phrase immediately conveys Darius's sovereign decision and personal initiative in establishing the new administrative structure. The act of "setting over" implies a deliberate, authoritative, and strategic appointment, signifying the immediate consolidation of power and the implementation of a systematic approach to governance following the conquest of Babylon. It highlights the new king's focus on imposing order and exerting control over his newly acquired territories.
* **"an hundred and twenty princes":** This specifies the exact number of high-ranking officials appointed by Darius. The large numerical detail underscores the immense size and inherent diversity of the newly acquired empire, necessitating a broad and extensive network of regional administrators to effectively manage its various provinces and diverse peoples. This precise number provides a concrete scale to the imperial organization and hints at the complexity of the task.
* **"which should be over the whole kingdom":** This concluding clause emphatically highlights the comprehensive and all-encompassing nature of Darius's administrative plan. These 120 princes were not merely localized officials but were collectively entrusted with responsibility for the entire vast dominion, ensuring uniform governance, consistent policy enforcement, and centralized control across all conquered territories. This sets the crucial stage for Daniel's unique and ultimately perilous position within this extensive and powerful hierarchy.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 6:1 masterfully employs several literary devices to establish its narrative context, imbue the scene with realism, and subtly foreshadow future events. The prominent use of **Administrative Detail** is evident in the specific number "an hundred and twenty princes" and the expansive phrase "over the whole kingdom." This meticulous detail lends a strong sense of historical realism and scale to the newly established Medo-Persian Empire, grounding the dramatic events that follow in a believable and well-structured administrative framework. Furthermore, the verse functions as a powerful piece of **Foreshadowing**. By describing the creation of a vast and hierarchical network of high-ranking officials, the narrative subtly prepares the reader for the inevitable political rivalries, jealousies, and conspiracies that will arise, particularly against Daniel, who is soon to be elevated to a position of authority above these very princes. This sets the crucial stage for the central conflict and the testing of Daniel's faithfulness within the chapter. Lastly, the verse serves as a critical **Transitional Narrative**, marking the definitive and administrative shift in imperial power from the Babylonian Empire to the Medo-Persian Empire, thereby preparing the reader for the new political and cultural context in which Daniel's unwavering faith will be profoundly tested.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 6:1, while appearing to be a straightforward administrative detail, carries profound theological weight, serving as a powerful testament to God's ultimate and unwavering sovereignty over all earthly kingdoms and human endeavors. Even as empires rise and fall, and new rulers meticulously implement their strategic plans for governance, the divine hand orchestrates history according to His immutable purposes. Darius's decision to organize his vast kingdom, though a human act of political and administrative genius, occurs precisely within the larger framework of God's prophetic timeline, demonstrating unequivocally that no human authority, no matter how powerful or comprehensive, operates outside of His overarching and sovereign control. This verse serves as a potent reminder that God is actively and intimately involved in the affairs of nations, setting up and pulling down leaders as He wills, ultimately working all things for the good of His people and the advancement of His eternal kingdom.

* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in the Lord's Hand")
* [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 6:1 invites us to deeply reflect on God's unwavering and absolute sovereignty in a world often characterized by political upheaval, shifting powers, and seemingly chaotic events. Just as Darius meticulously organized his vast empire, God orchestrates the intricate details of human history, even the rise and fall of nations and the appointments of leaders, with divine precision. For us today, this profound truth provides immense comfort and a compelling call to trust. We are powerfully reminded that no government, no political system, and no human leader operates outside the purview of God's ultimate authority and providential care. This understanding should cultivate within us a deep and abiding sense of peace, knowing that our ultimate hope and security are not found in earthly rulers or transient systems, but in the King of Kings who reigns supreme over all creation. It also challenges us to be faithful citizens and unwavering witnesses within whatever earthly structures or organizations we find ourselves, knowing that God can use even the most complex administrative systems to advance His divine purposes and demonstrate His power through His devoted servants, just as He so remarkably did with Daniel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the knowledge of God's sovereignty over earthly kingdoms, as powerfully illustrated in Daniel 6:1, impact your perspective on current political events and global affairs?**
* **In what practical ways can you, like Daniel, demonstrate unwavering faithfulness, integrity, and excellence within the administrative or organizational structures of your own life, whether at work, in your community, or within your church?**
* **How does trusting in God's ultimate and comprehensive control over governments and human history alleviate anxiety or fear about the future, especially in times of uncertainty?**

### FAQ
**Who was Darius the Mede, and why is he establishing this kingdom?**

Answer: Darius the Mede is presented in [Daniel 5:31](/daniel/5-31 "Daniel 5:31 - Darius the Mede Takes the Kingdom") as the one who "received the kingdom" after the dramatic fall of Babylon. While historical records outside of the book of Daniel do not explicitly name a "Darius the Mede" as the immediate successor to Belshazzar, most scholars propose various identifications for him, such as Gobryas (Ugbaru), the general who conquered Babylon for Cyrus the Great, or as a viceroy appointed by Cyrus himself. The book of Daniel consistently portrays him as the initial ruler of the Medo-Persian Empire, directly responsible for its immediate administrative organization and consolidation. His pivotal role here is to establish the new imperial order following the decisive Babylonian defeat, thereby meticulously setting the stage for the significant events of [Daniel 6](/daniel/6 "Daniel 6 - Daniel in the Lions' Den") and Daniel's continued prominence.

**Why did Darius appoint exactly 120 princes, and what was their role?**

Answer: The appointment of "an hundred and twenty princes" reflects the practical and strategic necessity of governing a vast, newly conquered, and diverse empire. The number 120 (or potentially 127 in later Persian administration, as seen in [Esther 1:1](/esther/1-1 "Esther 1:1 - Ahasuerus's Vast Empire")) likely represents a methodical division of the empire into major provinces or satrapies, each meticulously overseen by a high-ranking official. These "princes," or satraps, were entrusted with significant responsibilities for local administration, maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, and ensuring the unwavering loyalty of their respective regions to the central imperial authority. This highly organized system allowed the central government to effectively exert control over a diverse and widespread dominion, ensuring efficient governance, consistent policy implementation, and optimal resource management across the "whole kingdom."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 6:1, with its vivid depiction of a new king establishing his dominion through a meticulously organized and expansive administration, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and eternal reign of Jesus Christ. While Darius's kingdom was earthly, temporary, and limited by human power, Jesus's kingdom is eternal, universal, and transcends all earthly powers and administrative structures. The appointment of 120 princes to govern a vast realm, though impressive, ultimately foreshadows the supreme and ultimate authority granted to Christ, who, after His glorious resurrection, declared, "[All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - The Great Commission")" (Matthew 28:18). Just as Darius sought to bring order and control to his newly acquired kingdom, Christ's perfect reign brings divine order, ultimate justice, and everlasting peace to a fallen and chaotic world. He is the true and sovereign King of Kings and Lord of Lords, before whom "[every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10 - Jesus' Exaltation")" (Philippians 2:10). The administrative setup in Daniel 6:1, designed to control and manage an earthly empire, ultimately serves as a providential backdrop for God's miraculous care for His servant Daniel, pointing to the greater, overarching truth that all earthly powers and systems are ultimately subservient to God's grand redemptive plan, culminating in the establishment of Christ's everlasting kingdom, which "[shall never be destroyed](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Eternal Kingdom")" (Daniel 2:44) and will endure forever.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 5:31

And Darius the Median took the kingdom, [being] about threescore and two years old.

Exodus 18:21

Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens:

Exodus 18:22

And let them judge the people at all seasons: and it shall be, [that] every great matter they shall bring unto thee, but every small matter they shall judge: so shall it be easier for thyself, and they shall bear [the burden] with thee.

Esther 1:1

¶ Now it came to pass in the days of Ahasuerus, (this [is] Ahasuerus which reigned, from India even unto Ethiopia, [over] an hundred and seven and twenty provinces:)

1 Peter 2:14

Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.