Original Artwork

In the Lion's Den

Artist: Ron DiCianni

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SYNOPSIS:

We all have a tendency to think of people in the Bible as being somehow different than us. We imagine that Daniel wasn’t scared at all in the lion’s den and that he was super-human in his abilities. If Jesus agonized over going to the cross, it seems likely that Daniel was probably terrified beyond description in the lion’s den. However, what matters at that point is what you believe and then what you do with those beliefs. Daniel believed that God would save him so he patiently trusted and waited for that provision. As In the Lion’s Den illustrates, God can keep us from anything if only we will trust and believe that He will.

ARTIST NOTE:

In the process of executing this painting, I actually photographed a 700 pound lion named Brutus. He was brought to the photographer’s studio by his owner (a zookeeper) and a professional trainer. Like you, I have seen lions in National Geographic and have gotten as close as bars will allow at the zoo, but I never realized how incredible a lion is on the loose. He was the strongest living thing I have ever seen. While he was fastened by a chain to his master, there was the impression that the master was leading him. That was only a deceiving appearance since all Brutus had to do to drag his keeper across the floor was to literally turn his head.

The modern day “Daniel” represented here has the look of concern on his face, and his body language demonstrates it. Rightly so, as he senses the eating machines staring at him. What he doesn’t see yet is that God has sent an angel to prevent any harm to him. The angel and the chains holding the lions are invisible but effective. You might detect a slight smile on the angel’s face. That was intentional.