Daniël in de leeuwenkuil / Daniël vernietigt de tempel van Bel / Daniël en de draak 1582 - 1613

This print by Pieter van der Borcht, made around the late 16th century, visualizes three stories from the Book of Daniel. It’s important to remember that during this period, the representation of biblical stories was often intertwined with the social and political contexts of the time. Van der Borcht’s choice to depict Daniel’s defiance against idolatry and his miraculous survival among lions speaks to the religious tensions of 16th-century Europe, marked by the Reformation and the rise of Protestantism. The image of Daniel destroying the temple of Bel is particularly charged, suggesting a rejection of established religious authority. In a society where religious identity was deeply connected to one’s social standing and political allegiance, such depictions carried significant weight. In all three scenes Daniel represents steadfastness and divine protection in the face of persecution, themes that resonate deeply with those experiencing religious or political oppression. The artist invites us to reflect on the power of individual conviction and the potential for resistance against dominant ideologies.