November 27, 2025, Thursday of the 33rd week in ordinary time.

A reading from the book of the prophet Daniel. Some men rushed into the upper chamber of Daniel's

home and found him praying and pleading before his God. Then they went to remind the king about the prohibition.

Did you not decree, O King, that no one is to address a petition to God or man for 30 days

except to you, O King. Otherwise, he shall be cast into a den of lions?

The king answered them,

"'the decree is absolute, irrevocable under the Mead and Persian law.

"'To this they replied,

"'Daniel, the Jewish exile, has paid no attention to you, O king,

"'or to the decree you issued.

"'Three times a day he offers his prayer.

The king was deeply grieved at this news, and he made up his mind to save Daniel.

He worked till sunset to rescue him.

But these men insisted, they said, keep in mind, O king, that under the Mead and Persian law,

every royal prohibition or decree is irrevocable.

So the king ordered Daniel to be brought and cast into the lion's den.

To Daniel, he said,

May your God whom you serve so constantly save you.

To forestall any tampering,

the king sealed with his own ring and the rings of the lords,

the stone that had been brought to block the opening of the den.

Then the king returned to his palace for the night.

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