To be in the lion's den
Meaning
To be in a dangerous, hostile, or intimidating situation where one is vulnerable and unwelcome.
Origin
The phrase "to be in the lion's den" leaps straight from the dramatic pages of the Old Testament, specifically the Book of Daniel. The prophet Daniel, a devout man in ancient Babylon, defied King Darius's decree by continuing to pray to his God. As punishment, Daniel was thrown into a pit teeming with ravenous lions, a seemingly inescapable death sentence. Yet, by divine intervention, he emerged completely unharmed the next morning, having spent the night with the lions without a scratch. This incredible tale of survival instantly forged the enduring metaphor for finding oneself in a situation of extreme peril, surrounded by enemies or overwhelming threats, from which escape seems impossible.
Examples
- Going to speak with the angry CEO about the failed project felt exactly like being in the lion's den.
- The junior lawyer bravely presented his case to the senior partners, knowing he was stepping into the lion's den.