Daniel and the Lion’s Den, by Clark Kelley Price
Daniel 1–7: Lesson 145
Daniel 6
Finding Gospel Truths in the Scriptures
Visit “Studying the Scriptures” to help prepare yourself spiritually to learn.
Are there common stories you grew up hearing that taught you important lessons? What lessons do they teach? Jesus Christ Himself used the Old Testament to help His disciples understand His teachings (for example, see Luke 4:24–27). One powerful story that illustrates many gospel truths is the account of Daniel’s faith and trust in the Lord, even when facing the lions’ den. This lesson can help you find and share gospel truths from Daniel 6.
Study the Scriptures
Sister J. Anette Dennis, First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, shared:
As my two youngest children were growing, I discovered books that were entertaining and engaging but also used symbolism in their stories. As we read together in the evenings, I loved helping my children understand the symbolism the author was using to teach deeper principles, even gospel principles. (“Put Ye On the Lord Jesus Christ,” Liahona, May 2024, 10)
Just as we can find truths in children’s books and stories, we can learn to find important gospel truths in the inspired scripture accounts that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have preserved for us.
Elder Jay E. Jensen, then of the Seventy, taught how stories in scripture can help us find gospel truths:
As you read and study [scripture] stories, you will see a word, a phrase, or a principle that seems as applicable today as it was in the past. As you continue your prayerful study, other principles will become apparent. As you put the principles together, you will begin to bridge the gap between the prophets and people who lived in the past—they-there-then—and us in our day—I-here-now. (“Scripture Stories as Patterns for Our Lives,” Ensign or Liahona, July 2009, 21)
Invite the Holy Ghost to help increase your ability to find truths in scripture stories and to teach others what you learn about Jesus Christ, His life, and His gospel.
Many years after Daniel and his friends were taken captive into Babylon, the nation was conquered by the Medes and the Persians. Darius, a Mede, was made king of Babylon (see Daniel 5:30–31).
Having trouble understanding what you read? Here are some ideas that might help you better understand as you read Daniel 6. Read the verses out loud to yourself or listen to them.
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Mark key elements such as person, place, and what is happening in the scriptures.
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Tag Christlike titles or attributes.
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Link other passages and talks that come to your mind.
Read Daniel 6:4–28 and practice looking for important lessons or truths. As you read, ask yourself, “What would the Lord like me to learn from this story?” Make a note next to the verse you feel helps illustrate the truth.
For example, you could make a note next to verse 4 with the following truth: As disciples of Christ, we will face opposition because of our beliefs.
You could also watch “Daniel and the Lions’ Den” (1:45).
Review the following study options. Complete one or more.
Option A
How can I act with courage like Daniel?
Choose one or more of the following four accounts to study. Look for truths that can help you act with courage like Daniel.
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President Thomas S. Monson (1927–2018) shared the following:
While serving in the United States Navy in World War II, I learned of brave deeds, instances of valor, and examples of courage. One which I shall never forget was the quiet courage of an 18-year-old seaman—not of our faith—who was not too proud to pray. Of 250 men in the company, he was the only one who each night knelt down by the side of his bunk, at times amidst the jeers of bullies and the jests of unbelievers. With bowed head, he prayed to God. He never wavered. He never faltered. He had courage. (“Be Strong and of a Good Courage,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 67)
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Two sister missionaries who were miraculously protected from harm. Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared this story in “When Thou Art Converted“ (time code: 8:44 to 10:28).
11:21 -
A 19-year-old Joseph F. Smith faced a violent mob who asked if he was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: “Preparation of Joseph F. Smith: True Blue, Through and Through“ (1:31).
1:31 -
A soldier asked if he believed in the Book of Mormon: “Come unto Me, O Ye House of Israel” (time code: 0:00 to 3:05).
10:33
Write a note to your five-year-old self. What truths would you share from today’s lesson about courage?
Option B
What does the story of Daniel teach me about Jesus Christ?
Many stories in the scriptures are types and shadows. Types and shadows occur when someone’s experience is used to teach about Jesus Christ. Like many prophets, Daniel can be seen as a type of Christ.
Link each passage to see how Daniel’s story mirrors the life of Jesus Christ.
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They could find no fault in him. | ||
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A king’s decree threatened his life. | ||
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He was taken after praying to God. | ||
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A ruler tried to spare him. | ||
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He was sealed in by a large rock. | ||
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He was discovered alive early in the morning. |
What other similarities do you see between Daniel and the Savior that you could share with your family or a friend?
Share Your Thoughts
Lesson Purpose: To help you find and share gospel truths from Daniel 6.
Share one or more of the following with your teacher or class:
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The note you wrote to your five-year-old self.
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How Daniel’s life was similar to the Savior’s. Include how this could help you become more like Christ.
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Something specific you did to achieve the purpose of this lesson.
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Any questions this lesson raised for you. How will you try to find answers to your questions?