Bible Verse Commentary on Daniel 9:19

Daniel 9:19 states:

"O Lord, hear! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, listen and act! For Your sake, O my God, do not delay, because Your city and Your people bear Your Name."

Meaning of Daniel 9:19

This verse encapsulates Daniel's earnest prayer and his deep concern for the fate of Jerusalem and the Israelites. Through the insights from various public domain commentaries, we can explore its layered meanings.

Insights from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Matthew Henry emphasizes the urgency and sincerity of Daniel's plea. He notes that Daniel is not only seeking forgiveness for his own sins but also for the transgressions of his people. Henry points out the humility in Daniel's approach, acknowledging the reasons why judgment has fallen upon the Israelites. This request is filled with a profound understanding of God's mercy and a desire for restoration.

• Albert Barnes:

  Albert Barnes focuses on the implications of Daniel's prayer for God's attention, forgiveness, and action. Barnes highlights the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and the importance of divine intervention in restoring Jerusalem. He notes that Daniel's urgency signifies a collective sadness over the desolation of the city and a reminder that the people bear God's name, furthering the plea for God to act for His glory.

• Adam Clarke:

  Adam Clarke discusses the theological significance of Daniel's invocation of God's name. Clarke stresses the accountability of the nation as God's chosen ones and suggests that their predicament serves to demonstrate God’s righteousness in judgment. He interprets Daniel's call for forgiveness as a model for prayer, emphasizing the need for sincerity in seeking God’s favor.

Interpretation of the Verse

In summary, Daniel 9:19 reflects a heartfelt petition, demonstrating dependency on God's mercy. This verse serves multiple purposes in Bible study, including:

• It is a model of intercessory prayer.
• It emphasizes the importance of corporate repentance.
• It speaks to God's character as one who is compassionate and forgiving.

Biblical Exegesis

Understanding the historical context is crucial for interpreting Daniel 9:19. This prayer takes place during the Babylonian exile, when Jerusalem lay in ruins. Daniel's appeal to God stems from the prophecies he has studied, specifically those pertaining to the restoration of Jerusalem.

Scripture analysis reveals that Daniel’s plea is not merely about physical restoration but also spiritual revival for the people of Israel. His acknowledgment that the people bear God's name signifies that their actions reflect on God Himself, thus amplifying the urgency of their need for forgiveness.

Application of Daniel 9:19

For modern believers, this verse can be a touchstone for prayer, encapsulating how to approach God with humility and earnestness. In situations of personal or communal distress, believers can mirror Daniel’s humility and urgent prayerfulness.

Related Cross References

• 2 Chronicles 7:14: A call for humility and prayer among God's people.
• Isaiah 53:6: The recognition of collective sinfulness.
• Lamentations 3:22-23: A reference to God's mercies being renewed each day.

Conclusion

Daniel 9:19 serves as a powerful reminder of the need for earnest prayer and genuine repentance. It allows for an exploration of deeper themes within Scripture, encouraging believers to delve into Bible verse meanings and interpretations thoroughly.

This verse opens a window into the character of God and serves as a guide for contemporary prayer life. By studying this scripture deeply, believers can develop a richer understanding of God’s mercy and grace.