Daniel 6:13

KJV

Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, which [is] of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {H116} answered {H6032} they and said {H560} before {H6925} the king {H4430}, That Daniel {H1841}, which is of {H4481} the children {H1123} of the captivity {H1547} of Judah {H3061}, regardeth {H7761}{H2942} not {H3809} thee {H5922}, O king {H4430}, nor the decree {H633} that thou hast signed {H7560}, but maketh {H1156} his petition {H1159} three {H8532} times {H2166} a day {H3118}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They replied to the king, "That Dani'el, one of the exiles from Y'hudah, respects neither you, your majesty, nor the decree you signed; instead, he continues praying three times a

Berean Standard Bible

Then they told the king, “Daniel, one of the exiles from Judah, shows no regard for you, O king, or for the decree that you have signed. He still makes his petition three times a day.”

American Standard Version

Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, who is of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the interdict that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 6:13 captures the pivotal moment when Daniel's jealous adversaries present their formal accusation to King Darius, meticulously detailing Daniel's unwavering prayer practice in direct violation of the recently enacted royal decree. This verse serves as the immediate report of Daniel's perceived transgression, revealing the deep-seated malice of his accusers and setting the stage for Daniel's miraculous deliverance, which ultimately serves as a profound demonstration of God's sovereignty and faithfulness. It powerfully underscores Daniel's unyielding commitment to his God, even in the face of certain death, highlighting the perennial tension between human authority and divine allegiance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 6:13 is strategically placed at the dramatic climax of the narrative involving Daniel in the lions' den. Immediately preceding this verse, the king, manipulated by the cunning machinations of jealous satraps and administrators, has unwillingly signed an irrevocable decree. This decree, a trap meticulously designed to ensnare Daniel, forbade any petition to god or man, save the king, for thirty days. Daniel's exceptional character and administrative prowess had earned him a position of unparalleled favor with the king, second only to Darius himself, as detailed in [Daniel 6:1-3](/daniel/6-1-3 "Daniel's High Position and the Envy of Officials"). The conspirators, fully aware of Daniel's consistent and public prayer life, knew he would not compromise his devotion to God. Thus, [Daniel 6:13](/daniel/6-13 "Daniel's Accusation Before the King") is their triumphant report to the king, confirming Daniel's "violation" and initiating the legal process that would lead to his condemnation to the lion's den.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Daniel 6 unfold during the reign of Darius the Mede, likely a satrap or co-regent under Cyrus the Great, following the fall of Babylon to the Medo-Persian Empire around 539 BC. The Persian administrative system was renowned for its efficiency, strict adherence to law, and the immutability of royal decrees. Once signed by the king, a law was considered irrevocable, a principle explicitly stated in [Daniel 6:8](/daniel/6-8 "The Irrevocable Law of the Medes and Persians"). Daniel's identity as one of the "children of the captivity of Judah" is a crucial detail emphasized by his accusers; it highlights his status as a foreign exile, a detail they likely exploited to portray him as disloyal or an outsider, despite his exemplary service. His public and consistent prayer practice, facing Jerusalem, was a distinctive and well-known mark of Jewish piety, standing in stark contrast to the polytheistic practices prevalent in the Persian court and directly challenging the decree's intent.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Daniel and broader biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **Unwavering Faithfulness and Obedience to God**, demonstrating Daniel's supreme commitment to his covenant God above all earthly authority, even when facing severe consequences. This narrative directly challenges the notion of absolute human rule and underscores the biblical principle that God's commands supersede human decrees, as famously articulated in [Acts 5:29](/acts/5-29 "Peter and the Apostles: Obeying God Rather Than Men"). The account also highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Miraculous Deliverance**, as Daniel's steadfastness ultimately leads to God's intervention, showcasing His power to protect His faithful servants. Furthermore, the **Conflict Between Righteousness and Malice** is vividly portrayed, as the jealousy and malicious intent of Daniel's accusers stand in stark contrast to Daniel's integrity and devotion, revealing the spiritual battle at play. Finally, the theme of **Perseverance in Prayer** is central, as Daniel's consistent practice of "maketh his petition three times a day" exemplifies the importance of a disciplined and unwavering prayer life, regardless of external pressures, echoing the psalmist's commitment in [Psalm 55:17](/psalms/55-17 "Psalm 55:17 - Evening, Morning, and Noon I Will Pray").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **children (Aramaic, _bên'_):** This Aramaic term, corresponding to the Hebrew _bēn_, signifies "a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense," encompassing children or young ones. In Daniel 6:13, when Daniel is identified as being "of the children of the captivity of Judah," it emphasizes his lineage and his belonging to the exiled community of Judah. This highlights his identity not merely as an individual, but as a representative of a specific people, whose historical and religious identity was deeply tied to their God and their homeland, even in exile.
* **regardeth (Aramaic, _ṭᵉʻêm'_):** Derived from a root meaning "flavor," this Aramaic word figuratively denotes "judgment" (both subjective and objective), and by extension, "account" or "command." In this context, to "regard" means to pay attention to, to consider, or to obey a command or decree. The accusers' claim that Daniel "regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree" implies a deliberate disregard for the king's authority and a conscious refusal to acknowledge or obey his signed command, effectively accusing him of insubordination and disrespect.
* **petition (Aramaic, _bâʻûw'_):** This Aramaic noun, derived from the verb _bᵉʻâʼ_ ("to seek or ask"), specifically refers to "a request" or "supplication." It denotes the formal and earnest nature of Daniel's communication with God. The use of this word underscores the precise nature of his "transgression" in the eyes of his accusers: he was making a direct and formal request to a deity other than the king, which was precisely what the decree forbade. This highlights the deliberate and public nature of Daniel's devotional act.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then answered they and said before the king,"**: This opening clause establishes the formal and public nature of the accusation. The "they" refers to the jealous satraps and administrators who had conspired against Daniel, and their "answering" implies a direct response to the king's earlier inquiry or perhaps their pre-arranged presentation of evidence. The setting "before the king" emphasizes the gravity and official status of their report, underscoring the legal and political weight of their words.
* **"That Daniel, which is of the children of the captivity of Judah,"**: This clause identifies the accused and immediately highlights his background. By specifying Daniel's identity as an exile from Judah, the accusers sought to frame his actions not just as a violation of the decree, but perhaps also as an act of disloyalty from a foreign subject. This detail underscores the cultural and religious tension inherent in Daniel's position, subtly implying that his foreign allegiance might supersede his loyalty to the Persian crown.
* **"regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed,"**: This is the core of the accusation, directly stating Daniel's perceived defiance. The accusers claim Daniel shows no "regard" or respect for King Darius or the specific law he personally "signed." This phrasing is meticulously designed to provoke the king's anger and sense of betrayal, making Daniel's actions appear as a direct affront to the monarch's supreme authority and personal decree, thereby demanding the harshest penalty.
* **"but maketh his petition three times a day."**: This final clause provides the specific and undeniable evidence of Daniel's "transgression." It details his consistent practice of prayer—"three times a day"—which was a well-known aspect of his spiritual discipline. This precise detail confirms that Daniel's actions were deliberate, habitual, and public, leaving no room for doubt about his intentional non-compliance with the royal edict and emphasizing his steadfast devotion to God above all else.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful **Literary Devices**. **Irony** is profoundly evident in the accusers' meticulous report, as their attempt to condemn Daniel inadvertently highlights his unwavering faithfulness and sets the stage for God's glorious intervention. Their scheme, intended for Daniel's destruction, ultimately leads to the king's decree acknowledging and exalting the God of Daniel (cf. [Daniel 6:26-27](/daniel/6-26-27 "Darius's Decree Exalting God")). **Contrast** is central to the verse's dramatic tension, pitting Daniel's steadfast obedience to God against the king's unchangeable but flawed human law. This stark opposition underscores the ultimate supremacy of divine authority over temporal power. Furthermore, the accusers' specific mention of Daniel being "of the children of the captivity of Judah" serves as a form of **Characterization**, emphasizing Daniel's distinct identity and unwavering loyalty to his heritage and God, even in a foreign land. This detail also subtly foreshadows the broader theme of God's faithfulness to His exiled people and their unique covenant relationship with Him.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 6:13 is a powerful testament to the principle of prioritizing divine law over human decree when the two conflict. Daniel's refusal to compromise his prayer life, despite the life-threatening consequences, exemplifies a profound theological conviction: ultimate allegiance belongs to God alone. This act of civil disobedience, rooted in unwavering faith, highlights God's sovereignty over earthly rulers and laws. It demonstrates that true reverence for God sometimes necessitates a courageous stand against societal norms or governmental mandates that contradict divine principles. Daniel's steadfastness serves as a model for believers throughout history, encouraging them to maintain their spiritual disciplines and convictions even under duress, trusting that God will vindicate His faithful servants and that His kingdom is eternal.

* [Acts 4:19](/acts/4-19 "Peter and John's Response to the Sanhedrin")
* [Matthew 10:28](/matthew/10-28 "Fear God, Not Man")
* [Romans 13:1-7](/romans/13-1-7 "Submission to Governing Authorities and God's Authority")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 6:13 offers a potent challenge and profound encouragement for contemporary believers. In a world where personal convictions are increasingly tested, Daniel's unwavering commitment to his daily prayer routine, even when it meant facing the lions' den, reminds us of the non-negotiable priority of our relationship with God. His example calls us to examine our own spiritual disciplines: do we prioritize our communion with God above comfort, convenience, or even personal safety? This verse compels us to consider what we truly "regard" as the ultimate authority in our lives. When societal pressures, cultural trends, or legal frameworks clash with biblical principles, Daniel's story provides a divine mandate for faithful resistance, not out of rebellion, but out of supreme loyalty to the King of kings. It teaches us that true courage is found in quiet, consistent obedience to God, regardless of the cost, trusting that His power is made perfect in our weakness and His deliverance is always timely and perfect.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the "decrees" in my life or culture that might subtly or overtly challenge my allegiance to God?**
* **How does Daniel's consistent prayer life inspire or convict me regarding my own spiritual disciplines and commitment to daily communion with God?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to compromise my faith for personal safety, social acceptance, or worldly gain?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper "regard" for God's commands and His sovereign will above all other authorities and influences?**

### FAQ
**Was Daniel's act of prayer a deliberate act of defiance against the king?**

Answer: From the perspective of Daniel's accusers and the king's decree, Daniel's continued practice of "maketh his petition three times a day" was indeed a deliberate act of defiance. The decree explicitly forbade such petitions to any god or man other than the king for thirty days, as clearly outlined in [Daniel 6:7](/daniel/6-7 "The King's Decree Against Petitioning"). However, from Daniel's perspective, it was not defiance for defiance's sake, but an unwavering act of obedience to God, prioritizing his divine allegiance over an unjust human law. His open window and consistent devotional practice demonstrated his profound conviction that obeying God was paramount, even if it meant violating an earthly edict and facing severe consequences. It was a conscious choice to honor God's command above all else.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 6:13, with its depiction of Daniel's unwavering obedience in the face of death, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate obedience of Jesus Christ. Daniel's resolute commitment to prayer, even under the threat of the lions' den, mirrors Christ's perfect submission to the Father's will, culminating in His agonizing prayer in Gethsemane, where He prayed, "Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done" ([Luke 22:42](/luke/22-42 "Luke 22:42 - Jesus' Prayer in Gethsemane")). Just as Daniel was accused and condemned by jealous adversaries despite his blameless character and faithful service, so too was Jesus, "who committed no sin, nor was any deceit found in his mouth" ([1 Peter 2:22](/1_peter/2-22 "1 Peter 2:22 - Christ's Sinless Suffering")), unjustly condemned by those who envied His divine authority and saving power. Daniel's miraculous deliverance from the lions' den, a testament to God's power to save His faithful servant, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Christ's triumph over death and the grave. Through His resurrection, Jesus, the true Lamb of God, delivered humanity from the jaws of spiritual death and eternal condemnation, offering eternal life and true freedom to all who believe in Him ([John 11:25-26](/john/11-25-26 "John 11:25-26 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life")). Daniel's steadfastness is a timeless call for believers to imitate Christ's perfect obedience, trusting that our ultimate vindication and deliverance come through Him, who has indeed overcome the world ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")).

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 3:12

There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

Acts 5:29

Then Peter and the [other] apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

Daniel 2:25

Then Arioch brought in Daniel before the king in haste, and said thus unto him, I have found a man of the captives of Judah, that will make known unto the king the interpretation.

Daniel 5:13

Then was Daniel brought in before the king. [And] the king spake and said unto Daniel, [Art] thou that Daniel, which [art] of the children of the captivity of Judah, whom the king my father brought out of Jewry?

Esther 3:8

And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the people in all the provinces of thy kingdom; and their laws [are] diverse from all people; neither keep they the king's laws: therefore it [is] not for the king's profit to suffer them.

Daniel 1:6

Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah:

Acts 17:7

Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, [one] Jesus.