14. The king became very upset when he heard this. He decided he had to save Daniel. He worked until sunset trying to think of a way to save him.
15. Then those men went as a group to the king. They said, “Remember, our king, the law of the Medes and Persians. It says that no law or command given by the king can be changed.”
16. So King Darius gave the order. They brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den. The king said to Daniel, “May the God you serve all the time save you!”
17. A big stone was brought. It was put over the opening of the lions’ den. Then the king used his signet ring to put his special seal on the rock. And he used the rings of his royal officers to put their seals on the rock also. This showed that no one could move that rock and bring Daniel out.
18. Then King Darius went back to his palace. He did not eat that night. He did not have any entertainment brought to entertain him. And he could not sleep.
19. The next morning King Darius got up at dawn. He hurried to the lions’ den.
20. As he came near the den, he was worried. He called out to Daniel. He said, “Daniel, servant of the living God! Has your God that you always worship been able to save you from the lions?”
21. Daniel answered, “My king, live forever!
22. My God sent his angel to close the lions’ mouths. They have not hurt me, because my God knows I am innocent. I never did anything wrong to you, my king.”
23. King Darius was very happy. He told his servants to lift Daniel out of the lions’ den. So they lifted him out and did not find any injury on him. This was because Daniel had trusted in his God.
24. Then the king gave a command. The men who had accused Daniel were brought to the lions’ den and thrown into it. Their wives and children were also thrown into it. The lions grabbed them before they hit the floor of the den. And the lions crushed their bones.
25. Then King Darius wrote a letter. It was to all people and all nations, to those who spoke every language in the world:I wish you great wealth.
26. I am making a new law. This law is for people in every part of my kingdom. All of you must fear and respect the God of Daniel.Daniel’s God is the living God.He lives forever.His kingdom will never be destroyed.His rule will never end.
27. God rescues and saves people.God does mighty miraclesin heaven and on earth.God saved Danielfrom the power of the lions.
28. So Daniel was successful during the time that Darius was king. This was also the time that Cyrus the Persian was king.