Context and Background

Daniel's prayer for his people is a profound moment recorded in the Book of Daniel, specifically in chapter 9. This prayer occurs during the first year of Darius the Mede's reign, following the fall of Babylon to the Medo-Persian Empire. Daniel, a devout Jew and a high-ranking official in the Persian court, is deeply concerned about the future of his people, the Israelites, who are in exile. His prayer is prompted by his study of the Scriptures, particularly the writings of the prophet Jeremiah, which foretold a seventy-year period of desolation for Jerusalem (Jeremiah 25:11-12; 29:10).

The Prayer

Daniel's prayer is a model of intercessory prayer, characterized by humility, confession, and supplication. It begins with an acknowledgment of God's greatness and faithfulness: "O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant of loving devotion to those who love Him and keep His commandments" (Daniel 9:4). Daniel approaches God with reverence, recognizing His sovereignty and righteousness.

Confession of Sin

A significant portion of Daniel's prayer is dedicated to confessing the sins of Israel. Daniel identifies himself with his people, confessing their collective disobedience and rebellion against God: "We have sinned and done wrong. We have acted wickedly and rebelled; we have turned away from Your commandments and ordinances" (Daniel 9:5). He acknowledges the justice of God's judgments upon Israel, attributing their suffering and exile to their unfaithfulness.

Appeal for Mercy

Despite the acknowledgment of sin, Daniel's prayer is filled with hope and an appeal for God's mercy. He pleads for God to turn away His anger and wrath from Jerusalem, His holy city: "O Lord, in keeping with all Your righteous acts, I beseech You, let Your anger and wrath be turned away from Your city Jerusalem, Your holy mountain" (Daniel 9:16). Daniel appeals to God's compassion and the honor of His name, rather than any merit on the part of the Israelites.

Petition for Restoration

Daniel's ultimate petition is for the restoration of Jerusalem and the return of the exiles. He asks God to hear his prayer and to act for His own sake: "O Lord, hear! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, listen and act! For Your own sake, O my God, do not delay, because Your city and Your people bear Your name" (Daniel 9:19). Daniel's prayer reflects a deep longing for the fulfillment of God's promises and the restoration of His people.

Theological Significance

Daniel's prayer is significant for several reasons. It demonstrates the power of intercessory prayer and the importance of aligning one's requests with God's will and promises. Daniel's prayer is rooted in Scripture, showing the importance of understanding God's word and promises. It also highlights the themes of repentance, confession, and the need for divine mercy.

Response from God

In response to Daniel's prayer, the angel Gabriel is sent to provide insight and understanding. Gabriel delivers the prophecy of the Seventy Weeks, a complex and significant revelation concerning the future of Israel and the coming of the Messiah (Daniel 9:24-27). This response underscores God's attentiveness to prayer and His sovereign plan for redemption.

Daniel's prayer for his people remains a powerful example of faith, humility, and the transformative power of prayer in seeking God's mercy and intervention.