Daniel 6:1

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

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};

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

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

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

Commentary

Daniel 6:1 opens a new chapter in the life of Daniel and the ongoing narrative of God's people under foreign rule. This verse immediately sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow, introducing a new imperial power and its administrative structure.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse marks the beginning of the Median-Persian rule over Babylon, following the dramatic fall of the Babylonian Empire described in Daniel 5:30-31. King Darius the Mede, who had just taken the kingdom, immediately set about organizing his vast new dominion. The decision to appoint "an hundred and twenty princes" reflects the typical administrative practice of large ancient empires, which divided their territories into provinces or satrapies, each overseen by a high official. These princes, often referred to as satraps or governors, were responsible for local administration, tax collection, and maintaining order, reporting to higher authorities.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Transition of Power: The verse highlights the smooth, albeit divinely orchestrated, transition of imperial power from Babylon to Media-Persia. It underscores God's sovereignty over earthly kingdoms, a recurring theme throughout the book of Daniel (Daniel 2:21).
  • Imperial Organization: Darius's first act demonstrates the importance of establishing a robust administrative system for governing a vast empire. The appointment of 120 princes signifies a structured, hierarchical approach to managing the conquered territories.
  • Setting the Stage for Daniel's Elevation: This administrative setup is crucial because it provides the framework within which Daniel will be elevated to a position of immense authority, as seen in the subsequent verses. His prominence within this new system will inevitably lead to jealousy and conflict.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV term "princes" here translates the Aramaic word sarkîn (סָרְכִין). This term specifically refers to high officials, governors, or satraps who were appointed over provinces. It denotes a significant level of authority and responsibility within the administrative hierarchy of the Median-Persian Empire. Understanding this helps paint a clearer picture of the political landscape Daniel operated within.

Practical Application

Daniel 6:1 reminds us that even in the midst of political upheaval and changes in world powers, God remains sovereign. Human leaders may devise elaborate administrative systems, but ultimately, it is the Lord who "removeth kings, and setteth up kings." For believers, this verse provides comfort and confidence that God is in control of all circumstances, including the rise and fall of nations and leaders. It also foreshadows how a faithful individual, like Daniel, can thrive and be used by God even within complex and potentially hostile governmental structures, preparing us for the challenges and opportunities that may arise in our own lives under various authorities.

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Cross-References

  • Daniel 5:31 (3 votes)

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

  • Exodus 18:21 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

    ¶ 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 (1 votes)

    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.