THE PLOT AGAINST DANIEL.
King Darius (the Mede) was now ruler over the great kingdom. He set Daniel in a very high position as one of the three governors overall. Daniel excelled above the others and the king thought to raise him over them. This caused envy among the other governors who set about to trap Daniel.
Since they could find no fault with Daniel they devised a scheme whereby they would have a law established that they knew Daniel would not uphold – praying to God instead of the king.
The king signed the decree stating that it was the law of the Medes and Persians that no one may petition (pray) to any god or man for 30 days, except to the king. And if they do then they would be cast into the lion`s den.
`Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open towards Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days.` (Dan. 6: 10)
Then when the men found Daniel praying, they went before the king and reminded him of the decree. Then they accused Daniel of not showing regard for the king.
The king was greatly displeased with himself as he respected Daniel and realized the difficult position this decree had brought about. The king then set about to deliver Daniel, but the law of the Medes and Persians could not be changed.
The king then commanded Daniel to be cast into the lion`s den, saying, “Your God whom you serve continually, He will deliver you.” (Dan. 6: 16) That night the King fasted and could not sleep. He arose early and hurried to the den of lions, crying out to Daniel, if His God had delivered him.