Old Testament
Daniel 6:18
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
After Daniel was thrown into the lion's den, the king returned to his palace, deeply troubled.
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
The king returned to his palace and spent the night fasting; no musical instruments were brought to him, and he could not sleep.
Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting: neither were instruments of musick brought before him: and his sleep went from him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
After Daniel was thrown into the lion's den, the king returned to his palace, deeply troubled. He spent the night fasting, showing his concern for Daniel's fate. The absence of music in his palace reflected his distress and inability to find comfort. The king's sleepless night highlights the weight of his worry and the bond he felt with Daniel. He was not just a ruler; he was a man who cared for his friend. This moment illustrates the emotional turmoil that can accompany difficult decisions and the impact of our choices on others. The king's actions reveal a profound sense of responsibility and regret, emphasizing the importance of compassion in leadership. His sleepless night serves as a reminder that true concern for others can keep us awake at night, urging us to reflect on our relationships and the consequences of our actions. In the end, the king's love for Daniel shines through, showing that even those in power can feel vulnerable and anxious about the well-being of those they care about.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Daniel 6:18 to your life
When faced with difficult decisions, consider the impact on those around you. Like the king, allow yourself to feel empathy and concern for others. Reflect on your relationships and how your choices affect them. This awareness can guide you toward more compassionate actions in your life. Remember, true leadership involves caring for those you lead, even in tough times.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 6:18 reveal about the king's feelings?
Daniel 6:18 shows that the king was deeply troubled after Daniel was thrown into the lion's den. His decision to fast and the absence of music indicate his distress and concern for Daniel's safety. This verse highlights the emotional weight of leadership and the personal connections that can exist between rulers and their subjects.
Why did the king fast in Daniel 6:18?
The king fasted in Daniel 6:18 as a sign of his worry and desperation for Daniel's well-being. Fasting is often associated with seeking divine intervention or expressing sorrow. In this context, it reflects the king's hope that Daniel would be saved and his inability to find comfort in the usual pleasures of life, such as music.
What can we learn about leadership from Daniel 6:18?
Daniel 6:18 teaches us that effective leadership involves empathy and concern for those we lead. The king's sleepless night and fasting demonstrate that true leaders feel the weight of their decisions and care about the welfare of others. This verse encourages leaders to reflect on their responsibilities and the impact of their choices on individuals.
How does Daniel 6:18 illustrate the theme of friendship?
In Daniel 6:18, the king's actions reveal a deep bond of friendship with Daniel. His distress over Daniel's fate and his sleepless night show that their relationship transcended mere duty. This illustrates how true friendship can evoke strong emotions and a sense of responsibility, reminding us of the importance of caring for our friends in times of crisis.

The Book of Daniel
Daniel 1: Daniel and His Friends in Babylon
In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon comes unto Jerusalem and besieges it. The Lord gives Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God, which he carries into the land of Shinar to the house of his god. The king speaks unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes; children in whom is no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as have ability in them to stand in the king's palace, whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. The king appoints them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank, so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king. Among these are of the children of Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The prince of the eunuchs gives them names: unto Daniel he gives the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.
Unlock the full Daniel summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Daniel — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 12 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Daniel summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.