Darius (the Mede)

Technical Profile

  • Name Meaning: Likely from Old Persian Dārayavahuš, “he who holds firm/possesses (the good),” a royal throne-name used by Persian kings.
  • Period/Era: Exilic (transition from Babylonian to Medo-Persian rule)
  • Main References: Daniel 5:31; Daniel 6; Daniel 9:1; Daniel 11:1
  • Key Connections: Daniel; Medo-Persian administration over former Babylon

Who was Darius (the Mede)?

Darius the Mede is presented as the ruler who received the kingdom after Babylon fell.
Daniel describes him as “about 62 years old” and as organizing the realm through satraps and officials.
He becomes central to the narrative setting for Daniel’s continued service under a new imperial regime.

Key Events & Achievements

  • Administrative reorganization: He appoints satraps and supervisors to manage the kingdom (Daniel 6:1–2).
  • Irrevocable decree tested: A law is enacted restricting petitions, creating a legal crisis for Daniel (Daniel 6:7–9).
  • Royal acknowledgment of Daniel’s God: After Daniel’s deliverance, Darius issues a decree honoring Daniel’s God and Daniel prospers (Daniel 6:25–28).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Darius’s reign in Daniel highlights how imperial authority and fixed legal systems can both endanger and publicly vindicate faithful service.

Key Verse

“Then King Darius wrote to all the peoples, nations, and languages that dwell in all the earth: ‘Peace be multiplied to you.’” — Daniel 6:25, ESV

Quizzes

Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.

1. How old does Daniel describe Darius the Mede as being?

2. What did Darius do after Daniel was delivered?