Daniel 6:25

KJV

¶ Then king Darius wrote unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {H116} king {H4430} Darius {H1868} wrote {H3790} unto all {H3606} people {H5972}, nations {H524}, and languages {H3961}, that dwell {H1753} in all {H3606} the earth {H772}; Peace {H8001} be multiplied {H7680} unto you.

Complete Jewish Bible

King Daryavesh wrote all the peoples, nations and languages living anywhere on earth: "Shalom rav! [Abundant peace!]

Berean Standard Bible

Then King Darius wrote to the people of every nation and language throughout the land: “May your prosperity abound.

American Standard Version

Then king Darius wrote unto all the peoples, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth: Peace be multiplied unto you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following the miraculous deliverance of Daniel from the lion's den, King Darius issues a sweeping decree to all peoples within his vast empire, acknowledging the living God and commanding reverence for Him. This proclamation, born out of awe and conviction, serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereign power and His ability to vindicate His faithful servants, extending a wish for abundant peace to all who receive it.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 6:25 immediately follows the dramatic climax of Daniel's ordeal in the lion's den. Having reluctantly cast Daniel into the den (Daniel 6:16) and spent a night of anxious fasting (Daniel 6:18), King Darius rushes to the den at dawn to find Daniel miraculously unharmed (Daniel 6:19-23). Overwhelmed with joy and profound revelation, Darius orders Daniel's accusers and their families to be thrown into the den, where they are immediately devoured (Daniel 6:24). This verse, Daniel 6:25, marks the king's official, public response to this extraordinary display of divine power, mirroring earlier instances in the book where pagan monarchs, such as Nebuchadnezzar, issued decrees of praise to the God of Israel after witnessing His mighty acts, as seen in [Daniel 3:28-29](/daniel/3-28 "Daniel 3:28-29 - Nebuchadnezzar's Decree After the Fiery Furnace") and [Daniel 4:1-3](/daniel/4-1 "Daniel 4:1-3 - Nebuchadnezzar's Proclamation of God's Greatness"). The decree in [Daniel 6:26-27](/daniel/6-26 "Daniel 6:26-27 - Darius's Decree of Reverence for God") further elaborates on the king's command for reverence.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Darius, likely Darius the Mede (though his exact historical identity is debated among scholars, he functions as a Persian monarch in the narrative), ruled over a vast, multi-ethnic empire. Royal decrees in ancient Near Eastern empires were authoritative and far-reaching, often inscribed on public monuments or circulated throughout the provinces. For a pagan king to issue a decree acknowledging the God of a conquered people, and furthermore, to command reverence for Him across his entire domain, was highly unusual and significant. It speaks to the profound impact of Daniel's faithfulness and God's intervention. The phrase "all people, nations, and languages" reflects the diverse demographic composition of the Persian Empire, emphasizing the universal reach of Darius's authority and, by extension, the universal scope of the God he now acknowledged.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Daniel. Firstly, it underscores the **sovereignty of God** over earthly rulers and kingdoms, demonstrating that even the most powerful human decrees can be overturned or repurposed by divine will. Darius, initially manipulated by envious officials, becomes an instrument for God's universal proclamation. Secondly, it highlights the **vindication of the righteous**, as Daniel's unwavering faithfulness is not only rewarded with deliverance but also leads to a worldwide testimony for his God. This echoes the protection of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in [Daniel 3](/daniel/3 "Daniel 3 - The Fiery Furnace"). Thirdly, the decree's universal address ("all people, nations, and languages") emphasizes the **universal scope of God's witness and authority**, indicating that the God of Israel is not a tribal deity but the God of all the earth. Finally, the concluding wish for "Peace be multiplied unto you" introduces the theme of **true peace and well-being** as a divine blessing, contrasting with the turmoil and injustice that preceded it.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **wrote (Aramaic, _kᵉthab'_):** This Aramaic verb (H3790) signifies the act of inscribing or composing official documents. In the context of a royal decree, it implies a formal, authoritative, and widely disseminated communication. Darius's act of "writing" is not merely a personal reflection but a public, binding declaration, underscoring the weight and importance of his message.
* **people (Aramaic, _ʻam'_):** This term (H5972) refers to a congregated unit or community of persons, often with a shared identity. In conjunction with "nations" and "languages," it emphasizes the diverse ethnic and social groups within the Persian Empire. The use of this collective term highlights the comprehensive reach of the king's decree, extending to every segment of society.
* **Peace (Aramaic, _shᵉlâm'_):** Corresponding to the Hebrew _shalom_, this Aramaic word (H8001) encompasses far more than the mere absence of conflict. It denotes holistic well-being, prosperity, completeness, harmony, and a state of flourishing. Darius's wish for "peace" is a desire for comprehensive blessing and welfare for his subjects, implicitly linking it to the God who demonstrated such power and brought peace to Daniel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ Then king Darius wrote unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth;":** This initial clause establishes the immediate consequence of Daniel's deliverance and Darius's profound realization. The king, now convinced of God's supremacy, uses his imperial authority to issue a universal decree. The comprehensive scope—"all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth"—is a hyperbolic expression characteristic of royal proclamations, signifying the decree's intended reach throughout the vast Persian Empire. It underscores the global impact of God's act through Daniel.
* **"Peace be multiplied unto you.":** This concluding phrase functions as a royal blessing or benediction. The Aramaic word for "peace" (_shᵉlâm_) signifies holistic well-being, prosperity, and harmony. The verb "multiplied" (_sᵉgâʼ_) emphasizes an abundant, overflowing bestowal of this peace. It is a wish for comprehensive flourishing, reflecting Darius's awe at the God who brought such complete deliverance and restoration to Daniel, and perhaps a recognition that true peace comes from acknowledging such a powerful and just deity.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 6:25 employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Royal Edict/Proclamation**, a common form in ancient Near Eastern literature, which lends authority and solemnity to the king's words. The phrase "all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth" is an example of **Hyperbole**, a deliberate exaggeration used to emphasize the universal and far-reaching nature of Darius's empire and, consequently, the intended scope of his decree. This also functions as **Inclusio** with earlier similar phrases in the book (e.g., [Daniel 3:4](/daniel/3-4 "Daniel 3:4 - Nebuchadnezzar's Proclamation to All Peoples")), reinforcing the theme of God's universal revelation. There is also a strong element of **Contrast** in this verse, as Darius's new decree of reverence and peace stands in stark opposition to his previous, misguided decree that led to Daniel's unjust condemnation. This reversal highlights the transformative power of God's intervention.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 6:25 stands as a powerful testament to the God who exercises ultimate sovereignty over all earthly powers. Darius's decree, born not of political maneuvering but of genuine awe at divine intervention, demonstrates that God can use even pagan rulers to declare His glory and truth to the world. It underscores the biblical truth that God's kingdom is not confined by national borders or human decrees, but extends to "all people, nations, and languages." The wish for "peace" (shalom) is deeply theological, pointing to the holistic well-being and flourishing that ultimately flows from acknowledging and honoring the one true God, a peace that transcends mere political tranquility. This divine peace is a hallmark of God's reign and a blessing He desires for all humanity.

* [Psalm 47:7-8](/psalms/47-7 "Psalm 47:7-8 - God Reigns Over the Nations")
* [Isaiah 2:2-4](/isaiah/2-2 "Isaiah 2:2-4 - The Mountain of the Lord's House")
* [Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 6:25 offers profound encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that our faithfulness, even in the face of severe persecution or unjust systems, can become a powerful witness that transcends our immediate circumstances and impacts those in positions of authority. Just as God used Daniel's integrity to transform a king's heart and inspire a universal proclamation, so too can our consistent walk with God, marked by prayer and obedience, lead to unexpected opportunities for His glory. This verse challenges us to live lives that compel even those outside the faith to acknowledge the reality and power of God, and to be conduits of His peace in a chaotic world. It prompts us to consider: how might our steadfastness in trials be used by God to impact our communities or even broader spheres of influence?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Daniel's unwavering commitment to prayer, despite the decree, inspire your own prayer life?**
* **In what ways might God be calling you to be a "witness" in your sphere of influence, even if it feels small or insignificant?**
* **What does "peace be multiplied" mean in a practical sense for your life and for the world around you?**
* **How can you, like Daniel, demonstrate a trust in God that is so profound it leads others to acknowledge Him?**

### FAQ
**Why is King Darius's decree in Daniel 6:25 so significant?**

Answer: King Darius's decree is highly significant because it represents a pagan monarch, ruling over a vast empire, publicly acknowledging and commanding reverence for the God of Israel. This is a direct result of God's miraculous deliverance of Daniel from the lion's den, demonstrating God's supreme power over earthly rulers and His ability to turn even hostile situations into opportunities for His glory. It underscores the universal scope of God's authority and the profound impact of one faithful individual's witness. This proclamation echoes similar acknowledgments from King Nebuchadnezzar in earlier chapters of Daniel, such as his praise for God after the fiery furnace incident in [Daniel 3:28-29](/daniel/3-28 "Daniel 3:28-29 - Nebuchadnezzar's Praise for God").

**What does "Peace be multiplied unto you" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "Peace be multiplied unto you" is a profound blessing. The Aramaic word for "peace" is _shᵉlâm_ (related to the Hebrew _shalom_), which means far more than just the absence of conflict. It encompasses holistic well-being, completeness, prosperity, health, harmony, and flourishing in every aspect of life. The term "multiplied" (from the Aramaic _sᵉgâʼ_) indicates an abundant, overflowing, and comprehensive bestowal of this peace. In this context, it signifies Darius's desire for his subjects to experience the kind of comprehensive divine blessing and security that he witnessed God bestow upon Daniel, suggesting that true peace is found in acknowledging the God who delivers and sustains.

**How does Daniel 6:25 relate to the broader themes of the book of Daniel?**

Answer: Daniel 6:25 is central to several key themes in the book of Daniel. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates God's **sovereignty over human kingdoms and rulers**, showing that even the most powerful earthly authority is subject to His will. Secondly, it highlights the **vindication and protection of the righteous**, as Daniel's faithfulness is publicly honored and God's power is displayed on his behalf. Thirdly, the decree's universal address to "all people, nations, and languages" reinforces the theme of God's **universal witness and authority**, demonstrating that the God of Israel is the God of all the earth, not just a local deity. This aligns with the book's overarching message that God's kingdom is eternal and will ultimately triumph over all earthly empires, as seen in the prophecies of [Daniel 2](/daniel/2 "Daniel 2 - Nebuchadnezzar's Dream and Daniel's Interpretation") and [Daniel 7](/daniel/7 "Daniel 7 - Daniel's Vision of Four Beasts").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
King Darius's universal decree in Daniel 6:25, commanding reverence for the living God and wishing for multiplied peace, serves as a remarkable Old Testament foreshadowing of the ultimate, universal reign of Jesus Christ. While Darius's authority was vast, it was still limited to an earthly empire. In contrast, Jesus declared, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me" in [Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - Jesus's Authority"). Darius's proclamation was a response to a singular, miraculous deliverance; Christ's reign is founded upon His definitive victory over sin and death through His atoning work on the cross and His resurrection, triumphing over all principalities and powers as described in [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers"). The "peace" Darius wished upon his subjects, though comprehensive, was still an earthly peace. Jesus, however, is the very embodiment of true, spiritual peace, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility and reconciling humanity to God and to one another, as detailed in [Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace"). His gospel is the ultimate universal decree, to be proclaimed to "all nations" through [the Great Commission](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission"), offering not just multiplied peace, but eternal life and reconciliation through His blood, as affirmed in [Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Reconciliation Through Christ"). Thus, Daniel 6:25 points to the greater King, Jesus, whose kingdom is truly universal and whose peace is eternal and all-encompassing.

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 4:1

¶ Nebuchadnezzar the king, unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you.

Ezra 1:1

¶ Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and [put it] also in writing, saying,

Ezra 1:2

Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which [is] in Judah.

Esther 3:12

Then were the king's scribes called on the thirteenth day of the first month, and there was written according to all that Haman had commanded unto the king's lieutenants, and to the governors that [were] over every province, and to the rulers of every people of every province according to the writing thereof, and [to] every people after their language; in the name of king Ahasuerus was it written, and sealed with the king's ring.

1 Peter 1:2

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

Esther 8:9

Then were the king's scribes called at that time in the third month, that [is], the month Sivan, on the three and twentieth [day] thereof; and it was written according to all that Mordecai commanded unto the Jews, and to the lieutenants, and the deputies and rulers of the provinces which [are] from India unto Ethiopia, an hundred twenty and seven provinces, unto every province according to the writing thereof, and unto every people after their language, and to the Jews according to their writing, and according to their language.

Ezra 4:17

¶ [Then] sent the king an answer unto Rehum the chancellor, and [to] Shimshai the scribe, and [to] the rest of their companions that dwell in Samaria, and [unto] the rest beyond the river, Peace, and at such a time.