What does Daniel 3:6 mean?

After hearing the interpretation of his dream (Daniel 2:1–3, 36–38), Nebuchadnezzar decided to build a golden idol (Daniel 3:1). This might have been to represent himself, to affirm his commitment to Babylonian gods, or to celebrate some occasion. He ordered powerful people from all over the empire (Daniel 3:2–3) and gave them strict instructions. When they hear a musical cue, all of them are to bow in worship of this manmade object (Daniel 3:4–5).

The penalty for disobedience is an immediate, horrific death by fire. The "furnace" in question was probably a type of kiln used to create lime. This would have been a domed surface with an opening on top to insert fuel and a space at the bottom to remove ashes and waste. For centuries in Babylonian culture, being burnt alive had been a traditional punishment for blasphemy (Jeremiah 29:22). Not only is the process presumed to be painful, but it is also thorough, capable of destroying the body entirely and leaving little to no trace. This chapter repeats this exact phrase multiple times, echoing the legalism and bureaucracy of Babylon.

Persian culture considered fire too holy for use as an execution tool. This is likely why Darius, a later king (Daniel 2:37–39), used a lion pit as the severest punishment for disobedience (Daniel 6:7).