Daniel 9:27

KJV

And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make [it] desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he shall confirm {H1396} the covenant {H1285} with many {H7227} for one {H259} week {H7620}: and in the midst {H2677} of the week {H7620} he shall cause the sacrifice {H2077} and the oblation {H4503} to cease {H7673}, and for the overspreading {H3671} of abominations {H8251} he shall make it desolate {H8074}, even until the consummation {H3617}, and that determined {H2782} shall be poured {H5413} upon the desolate {H8074}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He will make a strong covenant with leaders for one week [of years]. For half of the week he will put a stop to the sacrifice and the grain offering. On the wing of detestable things the desolator will come and continue until the already decreed destruction is poured out on the desolator."

Berean Standard Bible

And he will confirm a covenant with many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of the temple will come the abomination that causes desolation, until the decreed destruction is poured out upon him.”

American Standard Version

And he shall make a firm covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease; and upon the wing of abominations shall come one that maketh desolate; and even unto the full end, and that determined, shall wrath be poured out upon the desolate.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 9:27 is the climactic verse of the "Seventy Weeks" prophecy, outlining the final seven-year period of a divinely ordained timeline for Israel and the world. It describes a powerful figure, often identified as the Antichrist, who will establish a covenant with many, only to break it in the middle of the seven years, halting temple sacrifices and setting up a desecrating "abomination" that leads to widespread desolation. The verse concludes by affirming that this determined judgment will be poured out until God's appointed end.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 9:27 stands as the culmination of the profound "Seventy Weeks" prophecy, revealed to Daniel in response to his earnest prayer for Israel's restoration and understanding of Jeremiah's prophecy regarding the seventy years of Babylonian exile ([Jeremiah 29:10](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah 29:10 - Prophecy of Seventy Years")). The preceding verses, [Daniel 9:24-26](/daniel/9-24-26 "Daniel 9:24-26 - The Seventy Weeks Prophecy"), lay the groundwork by outlining the purpose and timeline of the prophecy, detailing the sixty-nine weeks leading to the Messiah's first advent and His subsequent cutting off, followed by the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple by a "prince who is to come." Verse 27 then zeroes in on the final, distinct "week" (seven years), providing specific details about the actions of this future "prince" and the cataclysmic events that will unfold, bringing the prophecy to its dramatic conclusion. This verse is pivotal as it describes the ultimate desecration and the divinely determined judgment that follows.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy was given to Daniel during the Babylonian exile, a period of immense national distress for Israel. The Jewish people were without their temple, their land, and their sovereignty, leading to deep spiritual reflection and longing for restoration. Sacrifices, central to Old Testament worship and atonement, had ceased with the temple's destruction. The mention of sacrifices in [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel 9:27 - The Final Week of Prophecy") implies a future re-establishment of the temple and its sacrificial system, a concept deeply significant to Jewish identity and worship. The "abomination that makes desolate" echoes historical events like Antiochus IV Epiphanes' desecration of the Second Temple in 167 BC, when he sacrificed a pig on the altar and set up an idol of Zeus, as recorded in [1 Maccabees 1:54](/1_maccabees/1-54 "1 Maccabees 1:54 - Desecration of the Temple") (though not canonical, it provides historical parallel). This historical precedent helps to understand the profound defilement implied by Daniel's prophecy, which points to an even greater, future desecration. The concept of "weeks" as periods of seven years (a "sabbatical week" of years) was also familiar within Jewish law and tradition, as seen in [Leviticus 25:8](/levitic25/25-8 "Leviticus 25:8 - The Year of Jubilee").

* **Key Themes:** [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel 9:27 - The Final Week of Prophecy") contributes significantly to several major themes within the book of Daniel and biblical prophecy. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Predetermination**, emphasizing that God has a precise timeline for history and that even the actions of wicked rulers are part of His overarching plan, leading to a "consummation" and "that determined" judgment. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Messianic Expectation and Eschatology**, detailing events that precede the ultimate establishment of God's kingdom and the end of the current age, building upon the earlier mention of the Messiah's coming in [Daniel 9:25-26](/daniel/9-25-26 "Daniel 9:25-26 - Messiah's Coming and Cutting Off"). Thirdly, the verse introduces the chilling theme of **Antichrist and Desecration**, portraying a powerful future ruler who will not only break a covenant but also commit an ultimate act of blasphemy by defiling God's sanctuary, a concept later echoed by Jesus in [Matthew 24:15](/matthew/24-15 "Matthew 24:15 - Jesus' Warning about the Abomination of Desolation"). Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Judgment and Restoration**, as the desolation and judgment described are not arbitrary but are part of God's righteous response to rebellion and a prelude to His ultimate restoration of all things.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **confirm (Hebrew, _gâbar'_):** From H1396, meaning "to be strong; by implication, to prevail, act insolently; exceed, confirm, be great, be mighty, prevail, put to more (strength), strengthen, be stronger, be valiant." In this context, it suggests that the "he" (the prince) will not merely make a covenant but will make it strong, enforce it powerfully, or cause it to prevail. This implies a significant, perhaps even dominant, role in its establishment and initial upholding.
* **covenant (Hebrew, _bᵉrîyth'_):** From H1285, derived from a root suggesting "cutting" (referencing ancient covenant-making rituals involving cutting animals and passing between the pieces), meaning "a compact; confederacy, (con-) feder(-ate), covenant, league." This term denotes a binding agreement, treaty, or alliance. Its presence here signifies a formal, internationally recognized agreement, likely involving Israel, which will be central to the unfolding events of the final week.
* **week (Hebrew, _shâbûwaʻ'_):** From H7620, meaning "literally, sevened, i.e. a week (specifically, of years)." This is crucial for understanding the prophetic timeline. While "week" typically refers to seven days, in prophetic contexts, particularly within Daniel, it consistently denotes a period of seven years, aligning with the "day for a year" principle found elsewhere in scripture ([Ezekiel 4:6](/ezekiel/4-6 "Ezekiel 4:6 - Day for a Year Principle")). Thus, "one week" signifies a seven-year period.
* **cease (Hebrew, _shâbath'_):** From H7673, meaning "to repose, i.e. desist from exertion; used in many implied relations (causative, figurative or specific); (cause to, let, make to) cease, celebrate, cause (make) to fail, keep (sabbath), suffer to be lacking, leave, put away (down), (make to) rest, rid, still, take away." This verb powerfully conveys the abrupt and definitive halting of the sacrificial system, indicating a forceful intervention that terminates the religious practices.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week:"** This opening clause introduces the central figure ("he," understood as the "prince who is to come" from [Daniel 9:26](/daniel/9-26 "Daniel 9:26 - The Prince Who Is To Come")) and his primary action: establishing or strengthening a binding agreement. The "many" likely refers to Israel and potentially other nations, indicating a broad scope for this treaty. The duration "for one week" precisely defines the seven-year period during which this covenant will be in effect.
* **"and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease,"** This clause reveals the dramatic turning point. Precisely halfway through the seven-year period (after 3.5 years), the "prince" will unilaterally break the covenant by forcibly stopping the daily animal sacrifices (zebach) and grain offerings (minchah) that are part of the Jewish temple worship. This implies the existence of a rebuilt temple in Jerusalem where these sacrifices are being offered, only to be abruptly terminated by this figure.
* **"and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make [it] desolate,"** This explains the reason and method for the desolation. The cessation of sacrifices is directly linked to the introduction of "abominations" (detestable, idolatrous things or practices). The "overspreading" (kanaph, literally "wing" or "extremity") suggests a widespread, prominent, or even covering presence of these abominations, leading to the desolation of the temple and potentially the surrounding land. This act is the "abomination of desolation."
* **"even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate."** This concluding phrase emphasizes the divine decree behind these events. The desolation will persist "until the consummation" (kalah, a completion or utter end), signifying a divinely appointed endpoint. Furthermore, "that determined" (charats, meaning decided or decreed) judgment will be "poured" (nathak, to flow forth, indicating an outpouring of judgment) upon those who are desolate or who cause desolation. This underscores God's ultimate control and His righteous judgment that will bring the prophetic period to its final, decisive close.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 9:27 is rich in literary devices that enhance its prophetic impact. The most prominent is **Prophecy** itself, as the verse foretells future events with remarkable specificity, detailing actions, timelines, and consequences. **Symbolism** is also heavily employed, particularly with "one week" symbolizing seven years, a common prophetic timeframe. The "sacrifice and the oblation" symbolize the entire system of Jewish worship and atonement, the cessation of which represents a profound spiritual disruption. The "abominations" are symbolic of idolatry and blasphemy, leading to spiritual and physical desolation. The phrase "overspreading of abominations" uses **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche** where the "overspreading" (literally "wing" or "extremity") represents the pervasive and prominent nature of the defilement. Finally, the verse employs **Foreshadowing**, looking forward to the ultimate desolation and judgment that will be poured out, which finds echoes in later New Testament warnings and descriptions of the end times.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 9:27 is a cornerstone of biblical eschatology, revealing God's precise control over human history and His ultimate plan for redemption and judgment. The "he" who confirms the covenant and then breaks it is widely understood as the Antichrist, a figure of ultimate rebellion against God, whose actions directly parallel the "little horn" of [Daniel 7:8](/daniel/7-8 "Daniel 7:8 - The Little Horn"). The cessation of sacrifices and the "abomination of desolation" signify the pinnacle of human rebellion and blasphemy, a direct assault on God's appointed means of worship and His holy dwelling place. This act is not merely a historical event but a profound theological statement about the nature of evil and its ultimate defeat. The verse underscores that even in the darkest moments of desolation, God's sovereign "determination" prevails, ensuring that His purposes will be fulfilled and His justice will ultimately be poured out upon the unrighteous. It serves as a stark reminder of the coming judgment and the necessity of spiritual vigilance.

* [Matthew 24:15](/matthew/24-15 "Matthew 24:15 - Jesus' Warning about the Abomination of Desolation")
* [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 - The Man of Lawlessness")
* [Revelation 13:5-7](/rev/13-5-7 "Revelation 13:5-7 - The Beast's Authority")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 9:27, while detailing future prophetic events, carries profound implications for present-day believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is sovereign over all history, from its beginning to its consummation. The precision of this prophecy should instill confidence in God's faithfulness to His word, both in judgment and in salvation. For us, this means living with an eternal perspective, not being consumed by the anxieties of the present age, but recognizing that all events are unfolding according to a divine plan. The "abomination of desolation" highlights the extreme nature of spiritual deception and rebellion that will characterize the end times, urging us to cultivate deep spiritual discernment and to guard against any form of idolatry or compromise that would defile our "temple" (our bodies, as the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, [1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple")). It calls us to live lives of purity, watchfulness, and unwavering faith, understanding that our ultimate hope rests not in earthly covenants or political stability, but in the "consummation" of God's righteous plan and the return of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the precision of Daniel's prophecy strengthen your faith in God's sovereignty over history?**
* **In what ways might we, as believers, be susceptible to forms of "abomination" or spiritual compromise in our own lives today?**
* **How does the knowledge of future events, such as the "consummation" and "determined" judgment, impact your daily priorities and motivations?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "he" in Daniel 9:27, and why is he so significant?**

Answer: The "he" in [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel 9:27 - The Final Week of Prophecy") is widely interpreted by evangelical scholars as the "prince who is to come" mentioned in [Daniel 9:26](/daniel/9-26 "Daniel 9:26 - The Prince Who Is To Come"). This figure is generally identified as the Antichrist, a powerful future world leader who will rise to prominence in the end times. His significance lies in his central role in the final seven-year period of prophecy: he confirms a covenant, then breaks it, halts temple sacrifices, and sets up the "abomination of desolation." These actions mark him as the ultimate human antagonist to God and His people, fulfilling prophecies that point to a period of intense tribulation and spiritual deception before Christ's return.

**What is the "one week" referring to, and why is it important?**

Answer: The "one week" in [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel 9:27 - The Final Week of Prophecy") refers to the final seven-year period of the "Seventy Weeks" prophecy. In biblical prophecy, particularly in Daniel and Ezekiel, a "day" often represents a "year" ([Ezekiel 4:6](/ezekiel/4-6 "Ezekiel 4:6 - Day for a Year Principle")). Therefore, "one week" (seven days) translates to seven years. This period is crucial because it marks the culmination of God's prophetic timeline for Israel and the nations, leading to the ultimate judgment and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. It is commonly understood as the period of the Great Tribulation, a time of intense global distress and spiritual conflict.

**What is the "abomination that makes desolate," and how does it relate to other biblical passages?**

Answer: The "abomination that makes desolate" refers to a profoundly sacrilegious act that will occur in the rebuilt Jewish temple in Jerusalem. It involves the cessation of legitimate sacrifices and the setting up of something detestable or idolatrous within the holy place, causing its defilement and leading to widespread desolation. This event was historically foreshadowed by Antiochus IV Epiphanes' actions in 167 BC. However, [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel 9:27 - The Final Week of Prophecy") points to a future, ultimate fulfillment. Jesus Himself warned His disciples about this very event in [Matthew 24:15](/matthew/24-15 "Matthew 24:15 - Jesus' Warning about the Abomination of Desolation") and [Mark 13:14](/mark/13-14 "Mark 13:14 - Mark's Account of the Abomination of Desolation"), identifying it as a key sign of the end times. The Apostle Paul also alludes to this figure, the "man of lawlessness," who will "set himself up in God's temple, proclaiming himself to be God" in [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 - The Man of Lawlessness"), further solidifying its significance as a pivotal end-time event.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel 9:27 - The Final Week of Prophecy") describes the actions of an antichrist figure and a period of great tribulation, its ultimate fulfillment and meaning are deeply rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The cessation of sacrifice described in the verse, though caused by a wicked human agent, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Unlike the temporary halting of Old Testament sacrifices by the "prince," Christ's sacrifice was a once-for-all act that eternally "caused the sacrifice and the oblation to cease" in terms of their efficacy for atonement, as [Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10-14 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's One Sacrifice") beautifully articulates. He is the true Lamb of God, whose blood perfectly atoned for sin, rendering all subsequent animal sacrifices obsolete ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Furthermore, while the "abomination of desolation" speaks of a future defilement, Christ's death and resurrection inaugurated a new covenant, making believers themselves the temple of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple")), a spiritual reality that no earthly abomination can ultimately defile. The "consummation" and "that determined shall be poured upon the desolate" ultimately point to Christ's second coming, where He will execute righteous judgment, defeat all evil, and establish His eternal kingdom, bringing about the true and final "consummation" of God's redemptive plan ([Revelation 19:11-16](/rev/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ's Return and Judgment")). Thus, even in a prophecy detailing darkness and desolation, the light of Christ's finished work and His triumphant return shines through as the ultimate hope and fulfillment.

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

Matthew 24:15

When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)

Luke 21:20

¶ And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh.

Daniel 12:11

And from the time [that] the daily [sacrifice] shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, [there shall be] a thousand two hundred and ninety days.

Mark 13:14

¶ But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:

Daniel 11:36

And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.

Isaiah 10:22

For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, [yet] a remnant of them shall return: the consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness.

Isaiah 10:23

For the Lord GOD of hosts shall make a consumption, even determined, in the midst of all the land.