In the book of Daniel there is recorded one of the best loved of all the Old Testament narratives,—a narrative which inspired an artist to produce on canvas two powerful conceptions of that thrilling episode in the life of the man whom King Darius designated "servant of the living God... whom thou servest continually." These two illustrations are popularly known as "Daniel and the Lions." In the one first produced, Daniel is shown looking down at the lions; in the other, he is looking up into the light which comes through an opening. Although his hands are bound, there is no suggestion of fear or of helplessness; his whole demeanor conveys the impression of calmness and tranquillity.
The Christian Scientist, who is ever striving to bring his thinking into subjection to divine Mind, finds great significance in these two different attitudes. It is not the purpose of this article, however, to go into detail regarding them, but rather to dwell upon the compelling feature of Daniel's trying experience,—a feature no artist could ever put on canvas, because above and beyond all human cognizance was the power with which this man of God was imbued, so that to his vision there was presented no trace of animal ferocity. A gifted artist may bring out much in the treatment of such a subject, so that certain mental qualities are forcibly depicted; but, at best, it can be done only in a superficial way, for such Godlike qualities as Daniel possessed can be depicted only through spiritual sense.
A Sunday school teacher was asked, in the classroom, what the power was that preserved Daniel; or, to put it in the words of the pupil, "What kept the lions from eating Daniel?" Instantly came the answer from another pupil, "Because he had no wicked thoughts." "That's it!" said the teacher. "And that means innocence." Then the verse was read: "My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt."
