Daniel 9:3

Authorized King James Version

And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וָאֶתְּנָ֣ה
And I set
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
פָּנַ֗י
my face
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#4
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
אֲדֹנָי֙
unto the Lord
the lord (used as a proper name of god only)
#6
הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים
God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#7
לְבַקֵּ֥שׁ
to seek
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
#8
תְּפִלָּ֖ה
by prayer
intercession, supplication; by implication, a hymn
#9
וְתַחֲנוּנִ֑ים
and supplications
earnest prayer
#10
בְּצ֖וֹם
with fasting
a fast
#11
וְשַׂ֥ק
and sackcloth
properly, a mesh (as allowing a liquid to run through), i.e., coarse loose cloth or sacking (used in mourning and for bagging); hence, a bag (for grai
#12
וָאֵֽפֶר׃
and ashes
ashes

Analysis

Within the broader context of Daniel, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Daniel.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People