Understanding Daniel 6:28

Verse: "So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian." - Daniel 6:28

Summary of the Verse

Daniel 6:28 concludes the narrative of Daniel in the lion's den, emphasizing his prosperity during the reigns of two different monarchs, Darius and Cyrus. This verse illustrates the divine favor and steadfastness of Daniel in a foreign land, serving both as a testament to God’s sovereignty and as an example of faithfulness amidst adversity.

Combined Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary:

• Prosperity from God: Matthew Henry explains that Daniel's prosperity was not merely political but was rooted in his spiritual standing before God. His faithfulness brought about favor in both the secular and sacred realms.
• God’s Sovereignty: The narrative emphasizes that God governs through all rulers, positioning Daniel strategically to fulfill His plans.

Albert Barnes' Notes:

• Transition of Power: Barnes reflects on the transition from Darius to Cyrus, noting that Daniel remained in a place of prominence during these shifts, pointing to his exceptional ability to navigate political landscapes while remaining steadfast in faith.
• Historical Context: The mention of specific rulers highlights the historical backdrop of the Babylonian and Persian empires, adding depth to Daniel’s story.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary:

• Faithfulness Rewarded: Clarke emphasizes that Daniel's unwavering commitment to God resulted in miraculous interventions, culminating in his prosperity even in foreign captivity.
• Interplay of Divine and Political: Clarke discusses how Daniel’s life serves as an example of how God’s purposes unfold within the dynamics of earthly kingdoms.

Bible Verse Cross-References

• Esther 6:1-3: God’s providence in aligning circumstances for His people.
• Proverbs 21:1: God's control over kings' hearts.
• Jeremiah 29:7: Seeking the welfare of the city where you dwell.
• Ezekiel 14:14: The righteousness of Noah, Daniel, and Job being mentioned among the righteous.
• Romans 12:19: Leaving vengeance to God, emphasizing faith in divine justice.
• Psalm 75:6-7: Promoting and demoting leaders according to God’s will.
• 1 Peter 2:13-14: Submitting to authority for the Lord's sake.

Thematic Connections

This verse provides a platform for exploring various themes within Scripture:

• Divine Favor: The idea that God shows favor to those who are faithful, as seen in the lives of Abraham, Joseph, and Daniel.
• The Role of the Righteous in Society: Daniel serves as a model for how believers can influence their culture positively.
• Perseverance in Faith: Illustrated throughout scripture where faithful figures face trials yet remain steadfast.
• The Sovereignty of God: God's overarching plan that includes the rise and fall of nations, seen in both the Old and New Testaments.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

For those looking to delve deeper into the connections between various scriptures, consider the following tools:

• Bible Concordance: A comprehensive index of scripture allowing detailed research.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Useful for identifying related verses on specific themes.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Methodologies for studying scripture in a connected manner.
• Bible Reference Resources: Various printed and online resources for in-depth study.

Conclusion

Daniel 6:28 serves as a significant reminder of God's providential governance and the blessings bestowed upon those who remain faithful in their devotion to Him. Through the cross-referencing of this and related verses, readers can uncover deeper insights into the interconnectedness of biblical themes and the overarching narrative of God's interaction with humanity.