So: this translates the common, multipurpose conjunction in Aramaic that may be left untranslated as in Good News Translation. But other languages will require some kind of connecting word in this context, since what follows is a kind of conclusion to the story.

This Daniel: see verse 3.

Prospered: the translation of this verb should not focus on physical prosperity. As in 3.30, where the verb is translated “promoted,” the verb used here suggests the idea of Daniel’s political success. Bible en français courant translates “occupied an important position,” and New American Bible reads “fared well.”

During the reign: or “while Darius was ruling,” or “at the time when Darius was king.”

The reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian: the conjunction and in the Book of Daniel and elsewhere in the Old Testament may be used in the sense of “namely,” or “that is to say….” This has led some scholars to suggest that this phrase is really intended to show that Darius and Cyrus are one and the same person, as indicated in the New International Version footnote rendering, “Or Darius, that is, the reign of Cyrus.” The point would then be to explain the identity of this otherwise unknown ruler. However, the repetition of the phrase during the reign of makes this somewhat less likely. In view of the uncertainty of this hypothesis, translators are advised to render the conjunction literally and, if required, a footnote may be added giving this other interpretation. However, many scholars consider the hypothesis too weak to merit a footnote.

Note that the whole verse is restructured by Revised English Bible as follows: “Prosperity attended Daniel during the reigns of Darius and Cyrus the Persian.”

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 .