Introduction

Daniel's prayer of confession and supplication is a profound moment recorded in the Book of Daniel, chapter 9. This prayer is a model of humility, repentance, and intercession, reflecting Daniel's deep understanding of God's righteousness and mercy. It occurs during the first year of Darius the Mede's reign, as Daniel seeks understanding concerning the desolation of Jerusalem prophesied by Jeremiah.

Context

The historical context of Daniel's prayer is the Babylonian exile, a period of seventy years during which the Israelites were captives in Babylon due to their disobedience to God. Daniel, a devout Jew and a high-ranking official in the Babylonian and Medo-Persian empires, is deeply concerned about the fulfillment of God's promises to restore Jerusalem.

The Prayer

Daniel's prayer is recorded in Daniel 9:3-19. It begins with Daniel setting his face toward the Lord God, seeking Him by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes (Daniel 9:3). This posture signifies his earnestness and humility before God.

Confession of Sin

Daniel's prayer is marked by a corporate confession of sin. He acknowledges the collective guilt of Israel, including himself, despite his personal righteousness. He confesses, "We have sinned and done wrong. We have acted wickedly and rebelled; we have turned away from Your commandments and ordinances" (Daniel 9:5). Daniel recognizes that the calamities that have befallen Israel are a direct result of their disobedience and failure to heed the prophets sent by God.

Recognition of God's Righteousness

Throughout the prayer, Daniel emphasizes God's righteousness and justice. He declares, "The Lord our God is righteous in all He has done; yet we have not obeyed His voice" (Daniel 9:14). Daniel acknowledges that God is just in allowing the desolation of Jerusalem because of Israel's persistent sin.

Supplication for Mercy

Despite the acknowledgment of sin and God's righteous judgment, Daniel appeals to God's mercy and covenant faithfulness. He pleads, "O Lord, in keeping with all Your righteous acts, may Your anger and wrath turn away from Your city Jerusalem, Your holy mountain" (Daniel 9:16). Daniel's supplication is rooted in God's character and His promises to His people.

Appeal to God's Name

Daniel's prayer culminates in an appeal to God's name and reputation. He implores, "For Your own sake, O my God, do not delay, because Your city and Your people bear Your name" (Daniel 9:19). Daniel understands that the restoration of Jerusalem is ultimately for the glory of God's name among the nations.

Theological Significance

Daniel's prayer is a profound example of intercessory prayer, demonstrating the importance of confession, humility, and reliance on God's mercy. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance, while also affirming God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. Daniel's prayer serves as a reminder of the power of prayer to bring about divine intervention and restoration.