Dare to Be Daniel

By Philip P. Bliss

Lyrics

1. Standing by a purpose true,
heeding God's command,
honor them, the faithful few!
All hail to Daniel's band!

Refrain:
Dare to be a Daniel!
Dare to stand alone!
Dare to have a purpose firm!
Dare to make it known!

2. Many mighty men are lost,
daring not to stand,
who for God had been a host
by joining Daniel's band.

3. Many giants, great and tall,
stalking through the land,
headlong to the earth would fall,
if met by Daniel's band.

4. Hold the gospel banner high;
on to vict'ry grand;
Satan and his host defy,
and shout for Daniel's band.

Bible Reference

Daniel 1:8

About This Hymn

"Dare to Be a Daniel" is a rousing children’s hymn written and composed by American gospel songwriter Philip Paul Bliss in 1873. Inspired by the moral courage of the Old Testament prophet Daniel, the hymn calls believers, particularly young people, to stand firm in their faith and resist compromise.

Bliss uses Daniel’s example from Daniel 1:8 and other accounts in the book of Daniel to encourage steadfastness, loyalty to God, and bold witness in the face of opposition. The refrain, with its direct challenge to “Dare to be a Daniel, dare to stand alone,” quickly became a rallying cry in Sunday schools and Christian youth gatherings.

The hymn’s marching rhythm and confident melody underline its message of bravery and conviction. Over the years it has been embraced as both a children’s favorite and a motivational song for Christians of all ages, urging believers to take an uncompromising stand for God’s truth.