Daniel 6:2

And over these three presidents; of whom Daniel [was] first: that the princes might give accounts unto them, and the king should have no damage.

And over {H5924} these {H4481} three {H8532} presidents {H5632}; of whom {H4481} Daniel {H1841} was first {H2298}: that {H459} the princes {H324} might {H1934} give {H3052} accounts {H2941} unto them, and the king {H4430} should have {H1934} no {H3809} damage {H5142}.

with three chiefs over them, of whom Dani'el was one, so that these viceroys could be responsible to them and so that the king's interests would be safeguarded.

and over them three administrators, including Daniel, to whom these satraps were accountable so that the king would not suffer loss.

and over them three presidents, of whom Daniel was one; that these satraps might give account unto them, and that the king should have no damage.

Context

Following the fall of Babylon to the Medo-Persian Empire, King Darius the Mede established a new administrative structure to govern his vast kingdom. Daniel 6:2 describes this system: one hundred and twenty satraps (or "princes") were appointed over the provinces, and above them, three presidents were set to oversee their work. Daniel, despite being a Jewish exile, was elevated to the highest position among these three presidents. This arrangement was designed to ensure efficient governance and, crucially, to prevent the regional governors from defrauding the king, thereby ensuring the king "should have no damage" or financial loss.

Key Themes

  • Divine Favor and Wisdom: Daniel's extraordinary wisdom and integrity, which the text later highlights as an "excellent spirit" (Daniel 6:3), were evidently recognized by King Darius. This verse showcases God's continued favor upon Daniel, enabling him to rise to prominence even under a new pagan regime, reminiscent of Joseph's elevation in Egypt.
  • Accountability and Integrity in Governance: The very purpose of this administrative hierarchy was to establish a system of accountability. The presidents were to ensure the satraps managed their territories responsibly and honestly, preventing corruption and financial mismanagement. This emphasizes the importance of integrity in leadership and the need for oversight within any government or organization.
  • God's Sovereignty in Leadership: Daniel's placement as the chief president is a testament to God's sovereign hand. Even amidst political transitions and foreign rule, God strategically positioned Daniel in a place of significant influence to serve His purposes and bear witness to His truth.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "presidents" comes from the Aramaic term sarkîn (סָרְכִין), which denotes high-ranking officials or chief officers. The "princes" mentioned are the Aramaic ʾăḥashdarpnayyāʾ (אֲחַשְׁדַּרְפְּנַיָּא), referring to the satraps or provincial governors. The phrase "no damage" translates the Aramaic nezeq (נֶזֶק), meaning loss, injury, or detriment, specifically financial or material harm. This highlights the practical, economic motivation behind the king's administrative reforms and Daniel's crucial role in ensuring their effectiveness.

Practical Application

Daniel 6:2 offers several timeless lessons for believers today. It reminds us that God can elevate His faithful servants to positions of influence even in secular environments. For Christians, it underscores the importance of demonstrating integrity, diligence, and accountability in our workplaces and in any leadership roles we hold. Our character, like Daniel's, should be above reproach, bringing honor to God and serving as a testament to His wisdom (Proverbs 11:3). Furthermore, it highlights the universal need for good governance and checks and balances to prevent corruption and ensure justice in society.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Esther 7:4

    For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish. But if we had been sold for bondmen and bondwomen, I had held my tongue, although the enemy could not countervail the king's damage.

  • Ezra 4:22

    Take heed now that ye fail not to do this: why should damage grow to the hurt of the kings?

  • Daniel 2:48

    Then the king made Daniel a great man, and gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise [men] of Babylon.

  • Daniel 2:49

    Then Daniel requested of the king, and he set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, over the affairs of the province of Babylon: but Daniel [sat] in the gate of the king.

  • Daniel 5:29

    Then commanded Belshazzar, and they clothed Daniel with scarlet, and [put] a chain of gold about his neck, and made a proclamation concerning him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom.

  • Daniel 5:16

    And I have heard of thee, that thou canst make interpretations, and dissolve doubts: now if thou canst read the writing, and make known to me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with scarlet, and [have] a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdom.

  • Luke 19:13

    And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.

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