So … and: the structure of this verse has been changed in some English versions to begin with “When the decree was issued…” (New American Bible) or “On publication of the decree…” (New Jerusalem Bible).

The decree went forth: in some languages wording like that of Revised Standard Version is unnatural. It may even give the impression that the decree had a will of its own. The idea, of course, is that the decree was published, which probably means that it was read out in public; but the agent who makes this happen will have to be expressed in many cases. Translators may consider “when the king made known his will…,” “when they (indefinite) announced the decision of the king…,” or “when messengers announced the king’s decree….”

The wise men: again this refers to all the experts mentioned earlier (verses 2 and 10). This should be made clear, as in Good News Translation “all of them.”

Be slain: it is quite likely that what is planned here is the gathering and mass execution in public of the all the wise men of the kingdom in a spectacular fashion. It is possible to understand the text as meaning “were being put to death.” This would indicate that the executions had already begun, but this is less probable. Once again the passive may have to be rendered as active: “that they should die” or “that the executioners should kill them.”

They sought: this is an indefinite form that gives a passive idea: “Daniel and his friends were sought.” But it may be possible to say “some men went out and found Daniel and his friends” or “… went to get….” Revised English Bible has “a search was made….”

Quoted with permission from Péter-Contesse, René & Ellington, John. A Handbook on Daniel. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1994. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .