Daniel 9:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Daniel 9:23
23 At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee; for thou art greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision.
Chapter Context
Daniel 9 is a apocalyptic and narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, covenant, 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 9:23
23 At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee; for thou art greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision.
Analysis
Gabriel reveals God's regard for Daniel: 'At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee; for thou art greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision.' The phrase 'at the beginning' shows God initiated response immediately when Daniel began praying. Gabriel's mission—'I am come to shew thee'—indicates divine commitment to giving understanding. The declaration 'thou art greatly beloved' (Hebrew: chamudot, precious, treasured) expresses divine affection. This motivates attentive consideration: 'therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision.' Being loved by God includes receiving revelation of His purposes.
Historical Context
Gabriel appears only in Daniel (8:16; 9:21) and Luke's nativity accounts (1:19, 26), suggesting special role in messianic revelation. The angel's immediate dispatch 'at the beginning' of prayer shows divine responsiveness. Ancient Near Eastern religion portrayed gods as distant, requiring ritual manipulation. Biblical theology presents God who actively seeks relationship with His people, sending angelic messengers with revelation. The timing fulfilled God's promise that before they call, He answers (Isaiah 65:24).
Reflection
- How does God's immediate response 'at the beginning' of prayer demonstrate His eagerness to communicate with those who seek Him?
- What does being 'greatly beloved' teach about election rooted in divine affection rather than human merit?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Love: Daniel 10:19
- Related: Song of Solomon 7:10
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 24:16, 26:12, Matthew 24:15, Luke 1:28