The Aramaic word Dârᵉyâvêsh, represented by H1868, corresponds to {Darejavesh, a title (rather than name) of several Persian kings}; Darius. It appears 15 times across 15 unique verses in the Bible, primarily in the books of Ezra and Daniel, highlighting his significant role in the history of post-exilic Israel.
In the biblical narrative, Darius H1868 is a powerful king whose reign is pivotal for both the nation of Israel and the prophet Daniel. He is identified as Darius the Median, who took the kingdom when he was about sixty-two years old Daniel 5:31. As king, he organized his administration by setting one hundred and twenty princes over the kingdom Daniel 6:1. His authority is demonstrated through the decrees he issues, such as the one to search the royal archives for the earlier command from Cyrus regarding the temple Ezra 6:1. The work on the house of God in Jerusalem, which had been stopped, resumed in the second year of his reign and was finished in his sixth year (Ezra 4:24, Ezra 6:15).
Several related words clarify the context of the reign of Darius:
- H4430 melek (king): This title is consistently attached to Darius, emphasizing his royal authority. He is referred to as "king Darius" when issuing decrees or interacting with his officials (Ezra 6:1, Daniel 6:6).
- H2942 ṭᵉʻêm (decree): A key function of Darius's rule was issuing commands. He made a decree to search for the records concerning the temple Ezra 6:1 and later made his own decree to ensure its construction continued with speed Ezra 6:12.
- H1005 bayith (house): The rebuilding of the house of God is a central event during the reign of Darius. The work on this house ceased until his second year Ezra 4:24 and was finally finished under his authority Ezra 6:15.
- H1841 Dânîyêʼl (Daniel): The prophet Daniel prospered under the reign of Darius Daniel 6:28, and it is this king who witnesses God's deliverance of Daniel from the lions.
- H3567 Kôwresh (Cyrus): The rebuilding of the temple was authorized by a succession of Persian kings, and Darius's commandment is listed alongside that of Cyrus and Artaxerxes Ezra 6:14.
The narrative role of Darius H1868 is significant, demonstrating God's sovereignty over world empires.
- Instrument of Divine Will: Though a Persian king, Darius becomes a key instrument in fulfilling God's plan. His decree not only allows the temple work to resume but commands that it be done with speed H629 and funded from the royal treasury Ezra 6:13.
- Enabling Prophetic Work: The success of the Jews in rebuilding the temple is explicitly linked to the prophesying H5017 of the prophets Haggai H2292 and Zechariah H2148, whose ministry flourished during the reign of Darius Ezra 6:14.
- Witness to God's Sovereignty: In the book of Daniel, Darius is a direct witness to God's power. After seeing Daniel saved, the king writes to all people H5972, nations H524, and languages H3961, declaring that Daniel's God is the living God who delivers and rescues Daniel 6:25.
In summary, Darius H1868 is depicted as a pivotal Gentile ruler whose authority was used to advance God's purposes. He is central to the history of the second temple's construction, issuing the definitive decree that saw the project through to completion. Furthermore, his reign provides the setting for one of Daniel's most profound tests of faith, resulting in a powerful king proclaiming the sovereignty of the God of Israel to the world.
TRV