Daniel 9:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Daniel 9:20
20 And whiles I was speaking, and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the LORD my God for the holy mountain of my God;
Chapter Context
Daniel 9 is a apocalyptic and narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, prayer, judgment. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 9:20
20 And whiles I was speaking, and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the LORD my God for the holy mountain of my God;
Analysis
While Daniel prays, God sends response: 'And whiles I was speaking, and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the LORD my God for the holy mountain of my God.' This sets context for Gabriel's arrival (v. 21). The phrase 'whiles I was speaking' indicates God answered before Daniel finished praying (cf. Isaiah 65:24). The confession includes personal ('my sin') and corporate ('sin of my people') dimensions. His intercession for 'the holy mountain' (temple mount/Jerusalem) shows covenant concern for God's reputation and dwelling place.
Historical Context
Jewish prayer practice included confession, repentance, and supplication. Daniel's prayer (v. 4-19) exemplifies corporate confession where righteous individuals identify with their people's sin. The 'holy mountain' refers to Mount Zion/Jerusalem where the temple stood (now destroyed). Ancient Near Eastern religion closely linked gods with specific locations; Daniel's concern for God's dwelling place among His people reflects covenant theology where God's presence among Israel demonstrated His choice of them as His people.
Reflection
- How does Daniel's example of identifying with his people's sin model corporate responsibility rather than self-righteous distancing?
- What does God's response before prayer concludes teach about His eagerness to answer those who earnestly seek Him?
Word Studies
- Confess: יָדָה (Yadah) H3034 - To confess, praise, give thanks
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 145:18
- Kingdom: Isaiah 6:5, 58:9, 65:24
- Sin: Psalms 32:5, Romans 3:23
- Holy: Daniel 9:16