King James Bible
"He answered and said to Arioch the king’s captain, Why is the decree so hasty from the king? Then Arioch made the thing known to Daniel."
Daniel respectfully addresses Arioch, Nebuchadnezzar's chief executioner, showing diplomatic wisdom even in crisis. By engaging the official directly rather than panicking, Daniel demonstrates the composed faith that characterizes his responses throughout the book. Daniel's question reveals he was unaware of the death sentence against Babylon's wise men for failing to reveal and interpret the king's dream. The word 'hasty' suggests the extreme and sudden nature of Nebuchadnezzar's command, reflecting the volatile temperament of ancient Near Eastern monarchs. Arioch explains the situation, showing unexpected cooperation with someone under death sentence. This moment pivots the narrative, as Daniel's ignorance transforms into opportunity—he will soon request time from the king and ultimately reveal God's sovereignty over earthly kingdoms.