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.