Definition: And the king commanded, and they brought those men which had accused Daniel, and they cast [them] into the den of lions, them, their children, and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and brake all their bones in pieces or ever they came at the bottom of the den.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible passage together. It’s a pretty dramatic and fascinating story about faith and obedience. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: A Suspicious Man: The story begins with a king who was worried about someone named Daniel. He suspected that Daniel was keeping a secret – a secret that could be dangerous to the kingdom. A Challenge: The king gave Daniel a challenge: “If you ever speak against me, then I will find out who is telling me truth and punish you.” The Solution: Daniel was given a room with six lions (animals known for their fierce behavior). These lions were locked in a den. The king instructed them to completely trap Daniel inside. The Punishment: The lions weren’t just being aggressive; they were meant to break Daniel’s bones and scatter his possessions completely. They were designed to be incredibly relentless. What It Means – Simple Explanation: This verse describes a situation where someone is put in a very dangerous, isolated place with powerful, relentless enemies. The point isn't just that Daniel was punished; it's about how he was punished. Fear and Isolation: The lions represent powerful forces of judgment – God’s judgment or evil influences. Being trapped in a den with them is incredibly frightening and isolating. Symbolic Punishment: The story isn’t necessarily about Daniel being physically harmed. It's a symbolic representation of divine judgment against those who oppose God’s will. It’s a way for God to demonstrate the consequences of disobedience. Key Takeaways & Theological Significance: Faith and Obedience: This passage highlights that faith is important. Daniel didn't want to be imprisoned; he obeyed the king’s command. It shows that true faith can be a source of strength, even in difficult situations. God’s Sovereignty: It emphasizes God’s absolute authority and control over everything. He doesn’t tolerate disobedience. The Power of God: The image of the lions breaking bones is a powerful metaphor for God's ultimate power to defeat evil and judgment. Important Note: This story is often interpreted as a reminder that resisting God’s will can have serious consequences. It’s a story about standing firm in your faith, even when it's difficult. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Relate it to a specific biblical story or theme (like temptation)?