Daniel 9:1

KJV

¶ In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes, which was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans;

KJV (with Strong's)

In the first {H259} year {H8141} of Darius {H1867} the son {H1121} of Ahasuerus {H325}, of the seed {H2233} of the Medes {H4074}, which was made king {H4427} over the realm {H4438} of the Chaldeans {H3778};

Complete Jewish Bible

In the first year of Daryavesh the son of Achashverosh, a Mede by birth who was made king over the kingdom of the Kasdim -

Berean Standard Bible

In the first year of Darius son of Xerxes, a Mede by descent, who was made ruler over the kingdom of the Chaldeans—

American Standard Version

In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes, who was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 9:1 serves as a precise chronological and geopolitical anchor, establishing the historical context for Daniel's profound prayer and the subsequent revelation of the seventy weeks prophecy. By specifying the "first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes, which was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans," the verse firmly places the narrative immediately following the fall of Babylon to the Medo-Persian Empire, underscoring God's sovereign control over the rise and fall of nations and setting the stage for one of the Bible's most significant messianic prophecies.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 9:1 marks a significant transition in the book of Daniel. The preceding chapters (Daniel 7 and 8) present Daniel's visions concerning future world empires and the coming of the Messiah, often in symbolic and apocalyptic language. Chapter 9, however, returns to a historical setting, providing a concrete date and political landscape that immediately precedes Daniel's deep intercessory prayer and the angelic revelation concerning the "seventy weeks." This precise historical anchoring grounds the subsequent prophetic discourse, emphasizing its reality within human history. It also follows the dramatic account of the fall of Babylon in [Daniel 5](/daniel/5 "The Fall of Babylon") and the establishment of the new Medo-Persian rule, which included the appointment of Darius the Mede, as narrated in [Daniel 6](/daniel/6 "Daniel in the Lions' Den").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The verse places the events in the "first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes," which historically corresponds to 539/538 BC, immediately after the conquest of Babylon by Cyrus the Great. "Darius the Mede" is widely understood by scholars as a viceroy or governor appointed by Cyrus over the newly conquered territory of Babylonia, often identified with Gobryas (Ugbaru in Babylonian texts) or a title for Cyrus himself, rather than a distinct Persian king like Darius I Hystaspes. The phrase "realm of the Chaldeans" specifically refers to the Neo-Babylonian Empire, which had been the dominant world power. The mention of "the seed of the Medes" highlights the prominent role of the Medes in the initial phase of the Medo-Persian Empire's administration of the former Babylonian territories, signifying a pivotal shift in global power dynamics. This transition was crucial for the Jewish exiles, as it marked the end of the [seventy years of Babylonian captivity](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah's Prophecy of Seventy Years of Exile") prophesied by Jeremiah.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully introduces several key themes that permeate the book of Daniel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty over History**, demonstrating that the transfer of power from Babylon to Medo-Persia was not random but part of God's predetermined plan, fulfilling earlier prophecies regarding the succession of empires, as seen in [Nebuchadnezzar's dream in Daniel 2](/daniel/2 "Nebuchadnezzar's Dream of the Great Image"). Secondly, it emphasizes the **Fulfillment of Prophecy**, as Daniel's understanding of Jeremiah's seventy-year prophecy (mentioned in [Daniel 9:2](/daniel/9-2 "Daniel's Understanding of Jeremiah's Prophecy")) is directly prompted by this historical transition. Thirdly, it underscores the **Reliability of God's Word**, showing how God orchestrates world events to bring His promises to pass. Finally, the verse sets the stage for **Intercessory Prayer and Revelation**, as Daniel's response to understanding God's timing is to seek Him earnestly, leading to the profound seventy weeks prophecy that lays out the timeline for Israel's future and the coming of the Messiah.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Darius (Hebrew, _Dârᵉyâvêsh'_):** Of Persian origin, this term refers to Darejavesh, a title or name associated with several Persian kings. In Daniel 9:1, it specifically designates the Median ruler who was made king over the Chaldean realm following the fall of Babylon. The use of this name anchors the prophecy to a specific, verifiable historical figure, emphasizing the precise timing of Daniel's vision within the Medo-Persian period.
* **seed (Hebrew, _zeraʻ'_):** From the root meaning "to sow," this word primarily means "seed," but figuratively extends to "posterity" or "offspring." In the phrase "of the seed of the Medes," it denotes Darius's lineage and national identity, emphasizing his ethnic origin and connecting him to the Median component of the Medo-Persian Empire, rather than solely the Persian. This detail reinforces the historical accuracy and specific political context of the time.
* **made king (Hebrew, _mâlak'_):** A primitive root meaning "to reign" or, inceptively, "to ascend the throne." Causatively, it means "to induct into royalty" or "to make king." The passive voice, "was made king," is significant here, implying that Darius's kingship over the Chaldean realm was not self-initiated but was bestowed upon him, likely by Cyrus the Great, the actual conqueror of Babylon. This highlights his delegated authority and transitional role within the newly established empire.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus":** This opening phrase provides the precise chronological setting for the events of Daniel 9. It establishes the time as the inaugural year of Darius's reign over the conquered Babylonian territory, placing it immediately after the fall of Babylon. The identity of "Ahasuerus" as Darius's father further specifies his lineage, though this Ahasuerus is distinct from the Persian king of Esther's time. This precise dating is crucial for understanding Daniel's subsequent realization about the seventy years of desolation.
* **"of the seed of the Medes":** This clause clarifies Darius's ethnic and national origin. It emphasizes his Median lineage, indicating that he belonged to the Median component of the Medo-Persian alliance that conquered Babylon. This detail is important because it aligns with the prophetic succession of empires seen earlier in Daniel, where the Medes and Persians together succeed the Babylonian kingdom. It distinguishes him as a Median ruler, possibly a viceroy, rather than a direct Persian emperor.
* **"which was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans;":** This final clause describes Darius's political authority and the extent of his dominion. He was "made king," implying an appointment rather than an independent conquest, over the "realm of the Chaldeans," which refers to the former Neo-Babylonian Empire. This signifies the complete overthrow of Babylonian power and the establishment of Medo-Persian rule, fulfilling the prophecies of empire succession and setting the stage for the return of the Jewish exiles.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 9:1 employs several literary devices to establish its significance. **Historical Anchoring** is paramount, as the verse meticulously provides specific names, lineage, and a precise chronological marker ("first year of Darius") to ground the subsequent prophetic revelation in verifiable historical reality. This precision lends credibility and weight to the divine messages that follow. Furthermore, the verse functions as a form of **Foreshadowing**, subtly preparing the reader for the profound prophetic insights of Daniel 9. By setting the scene with the transition of power, it implicitly points to the fulfillment of earlier prophecies (like Jeremiah's seventy years) and the unfolding of God's larger redemptive plan. Finally, there is **Thematic Linkage** to earlier chapters, particularly [Daniel 2](/daniel/2 "Nebuchadnezzar's Dream") and [Daniel 5](/daniel/5 "The Fall of Babylon"), by reiterating the shift in world powers from Babylon to Medo-Persia. This reinforces the overarching theme of God's sovereign control over human kingdoms, demonstrating that the rise and fall of empires occur according to His divine decree.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 9:1, while seemingly a simple historical introduction, profoundly underscores the biblical truth of God's absolute sovereignty over human history. The precise dating and identification of the ruling power demonstrate that even the grand geopolitical shifts of ancient empires are not random occurrences but are orchestrated by divine providence. This verse sets the stage for Daniel's understanding that the seventy years of exile, prophesied by Jeremiah, were nearing their end, signifying God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and His meticulous timing in fulfilling His word. It reminds us that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations, raising up and bringing down kingdoms according to His eternal purpose, ultimately working all things for the glory of His name and the advancement of His redemptive plan.

* [Jeremiah 25:11](/jeremiah/25-11 "Jeremiah's Prophecy of Seventy Years of Desolation")
* [Daniel 2:39](/daniel/2-39 "The Kingdom of Silver Succeeds the Kingdom of Gold")
* [Isaiah 45:1](/isaiah/45-1 "Cyrus, God's Anointed One")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 9:1, though brief, offers a powerful reminder of God's meticulous involvement in the sweep of history. For believers, this verse provides immense comfort and a firm foundation for trust: no political upheaval, global crisis, or personal challenge falls outside the purview of God's sovereign plan. Just as He orchestrated the precise timing of the Medo-Persian conquest and the end of the Babylonian exile, He continues to govern all things today, working His purposes through human events, even those that seem chaotic or unjust. This understanding should cultivate a deep sense of peace, knowing that our God is on the throne, faithfully bringing His promises to fruition. It also challenges us to be like Daniel, who, upon discerning the signs of the times (the end of the seventy years), was moved to earnest prayer and intercession. We are called to be attentive to God's word, seeking to understand His purposes for our generation, and to respond with faithful prayer and action, trusting that He is at work, always.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the precise historical dating in Daniel 9:1 strengthen your faith in the reliability of God's prophetic word?**
* **In what ways does knowing that God orchestrates the rise and fall of nations (as seen in this verse) impact your perspective on current global events?**
* **What "signs of the times" (whether personal, communal, or global) might God be calling you to discern, and how should that discernment lead you to prayer or action, much like Daniel?**

### FAQ
**Who was Darius the Mede, and why is his identity debated?**

Answer: Darius the Mede, mentioned in [Daniel 9:1](/daniel/9-1 "Daniel 9:1 - Darius the Mede"), is presented as the king who took over the realm of the Chaldeans (Babylon) after its fall. His identity has been a subject of historical debate because no extrabiblical historical records explicitly name a "Darius the Mede" as a king reigning between the fall of Babylon (539 BC) and the beginning of Cyrus the Great's full reign over Babylon. Some scholars propose he was a viceroy or governor appointed by Cyrus, possibly Gobryas (Ugbaru), who was a general who conquered Babylon for Cyrus. Others suggest "Darius" might be a title for Cyrus himself, or that he was a lesser Median noble given authority over the city. The biblical text, however, consistently portrays him as a distinct figure who "was made king" over the Chaldean realm, emphasizing his Median lineage and his role in the transition of power, which is consistent with the Medo-Persian conquest. Regardless of the precise historical identification, his mention firmly anchors Daniel's prophecy in a specific, verifiable historical period.

**Why is the precise dating in Daniel 9:1 important for the rest of the chapter?**

Answer: The precise dating in [Daniel 9:1](/daniel/9-1 "Daniel 9:1 - Darius the Mede") is critically important because it provides the historical trigger for Daniel's profound prayer and the subsequent revelation of the seventy weeks prophecy. In [Daniel 9:2](/daniel/9-2 "Daniel's Understanding of Jeremiah's Prophecy"), Daniel states that "in the first year of his reign I Daniel understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem." This means that the specific historical moment of Darius's reign—the very beginning of the Medo-Persian rule over Babylon—was the exact point at which Daniel realized that the seventy years of Babylonian captivity, prophesied by Jeremiah (e.g., [Jeremiah 25:11](/jeremiah/25-11 "Jeremiah's Prophecy of Seventy Years")), were nearing their completion. This understanding then propelled Daniel into the earnest prayer found in [Daniel 9:3-19](/daniel/9-3-19 "Daniel's Prayer of Confession and Intercession"), which in turn prompted the angel Gabriel to deliver the detailed prophecy of the seventy weeks, outlining the timeline for Israel's future and the coming of the Messiah. The historical anchor of Daniel 9:1 thus serves as the essential catalyst for the chapter's deep theological and prophetic insights.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 9:1 itself is a historical marker, its significance is deeply Christ-centered in its broader context. The verse establishes the precise historical setting for the seventy weeks prophecy, a timeline that ultimately points to the first advent of Christ and His atoning work. God's sovereign orchestration of history, evident in the transfer of power from Babylon to the Medo-Persians and the precise timing of the end of the seventy-year exile, foreshadows His meticulous plan for the arrival of His Son. Just as God brought about the fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecy at a specific historical juncture, so too did He send His Son "when the fullness of time had come" ([Galatians 4:4](/galatians/4-4 "God Sent His Son in the Fullness of Time")). The reliability of God's word, demonstrated by the historical accuracy of Daniel 9:1 and the subsequent fulfillment of the seventy years, provides an unshakable foundation for trusting in the greater prophecies concerning the Messiah. Christ is the ultimate King, whose reign transcends all earthly empires, and His coming was the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, establishing a kingdom that "shall never be destroyed" ([Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "God's Eternal Kingdom")). Thus, this seemingly simple historical detail in Daniel 9:1 serves as a foundational stone in the grand narrative of God's faithfulness, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ, the sovereign Lord over all history and all realms ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Jesus, Lord of All")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 11:1

¶ Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, [even] I, stood to confirm and to strengthen him.

Daniel 1:21

And Daniel continued [even] unto the first year of king Cyrus.

Daniel 5:31

And Darius the Median took the kingdom, [being] about threescore and two years old.

Daniel 6:1

¶ It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom;

Daniel 6:28

So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian.