lion's den

The phrase "lion's den" typically refers to a difficult or dangerous situation, specifically one in which a person confronts fierce opposition or criticism. It is often used metaphorically to describe someone who faces a challenging environment or is placed in a position where their safety, reputation, or success is at risk. The phrase derives from biblical narratives, particularly the story of Daniel in the lion's den, where he was thrown into a den of hungry lions as punishment for his faith.