Daniel 9:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Daniel 9:17
17 Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord's sake.
Chapter Context
Daniel 9 is a apocalyptic and narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, prayer, love. Written during the Babylonian and Persian periods (c. 605-530 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Demonstrates faithful living under foreign rule during the Babylonian and Persian empires.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Daniel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Daniel 9:17
17 Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord's sake.
Analysis
Daniel's petition becomes more direct: 'Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord's sake.' The word 'now' indicates urgency and transition from confession to petition. The request for God to 'hear' and for His face to 'shine upon' the desolate sanctuary uses covenantal language from the Aaronic blessing (Numbers 6:24-26). The phrase 'for the Lord's sake' (or 'for Your own sake') is crucial: Daniel doesn't ask based on Israel's merit but God's own interests—His glory, reputation, and covenant promises. The sanctuary's desolation is emphasized—the temple, God's dwelling place, lies in ruins. This appeals to God's own honor: will He allow His sanctuary to remain destroyed? This represents mature intercession: appealing not to our worthiness but to God's character, glory, and promises.
Historical Context
The temple's destruction (586 BC) was catastrophic for Israel—it was God's dwelling place, the center of worship, and symbol of His presence. Its ruins throughout the 70-year exile testified to God's judgment. Daniel's prayer comes near the exile's end (c. 538 BC), as Jeremiah's 70-year prophecy neared fulfillment. The request for God's face to shine reflects Numbers 6:24-26's priestly blessing—invoking covenant relationship language. Historically, the temple's rebuilding began shortly after this prayer (539-516 BC under Cyrus's decree), fulfilling Daniel's petition. The appeal 'for the Lord's sake' rather than Israel's merit accurately framed restoration: it demonstrated God's covenant faithfulness and mercy, not Israel's deserving. Church history shows revivals similarly come through intercession appealing to God's glory rather than claiming human merit.
Reflection
- What does praying 'for the Lord's sake' rather than 'for our sake' teach about proper prayer motivation?
- How does using covenantal language (like the Aaronic blessing) strengthen intercession?
- Why is appealing to God's glory and character more effective than claiming personal worthiness?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H136 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References God: Psalms 80:3, 80:7, 80:19
- Parallel theme: Lamentations 5:18