Daniel 9:4

KJV

¶ And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments;

KJV (with Strong's)

And I prayed {H6419} unto the LORD {H3068} my God {H430}, and made my confession {H3034}, and said {H559}, O {H577} Lord {H136}, the great {H1419} and dreadful {H3372} God {H410}, keeping {H8104} the covenant {H1285} and mercy {H2617} to them that love {H157} him, and to them that keep {H8104} his commandments {H4687};

Complete Jewish Bible

I prayed to ADONAI my God and made this confession: "Please, Adonai, great and fearsome God, who keeps his covenant and extends grace to those who love him and observe his mitzvot!

Berean Standard Bible

And I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed, “O, Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant of loving devotion to those who love Him and keep His commandments,

American Standard Version

And I prayed unto Jehovah my God, and made confession, and said, Oh, Lord, the great and dreadful God, who keepeth covenant and lovingkindness with them that love him and keep his commandments,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 9:4 initiates the prophet Daniel's profound prayer of confession and intercession on behalf of his exiled people. This verse establishes the solemn tone of his communion with God, beginning with a humble acknowledgment of Israel's sin and a reverent declaration of God's majestic and awe-inspiring character. Daniel appeals to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises and His abundant mercy, which are extended to those who demonstrate genuine love and obedience to His divine commands.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel's prayer in chapter 9 is a pivotal moment in the book, immediately following his contemplation of Jeremiah's prophecy regarding the seventy years of desolation for Jerusalem ([Jeremiah 29:10](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah's Prophecy of Seventy Years")). Having understood that this prophetic period was nearing its end, Daniel is moved to deep repentance and intercession. This prayer, spanning [Daniel 9:4-19](/daniel/9-4-19 "Daniel's Prayer of Confession and Intercession"), serves as the theological and emotional climax of the narrative section of the book, bridging the historical accounts with the subsequent apocalyptic visions. It is a model of earnest, informed, and humble prayer that directly precedes the revelation of the seventy weeks prophecy in [Daniel 9:24-27](/daniel/9-24-27 "The Prophecy of Seventy Weeks").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Daniel's prayer takes place during the Babylonian exile, approximately 538 BC, near the end of the seventy-year period prophesied by Jeremiah. Jerusalem and the Temple lay in ruins, and the Jewish people were scattered in a foreign land. This was a time of national humiliation and spiritual introspection for devout Jews like Daniel. The concept of "covenant" was central to Israelite identity, representing God's unique relationship with His people established at Sinai. Their exile was understood as a direct consequence of their failure to uphold this covenant, particularly in their idolatry and disobedience to God's laws, as detailed in books like [Deuteronomy](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses"). Daniel's prayer reflects a deep understanding of this historical trajectory and the theological implications of their current plight.

* **Key Themes:** Daniel 9:4 introduces several overarching themes crucial to the book of Daniel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Holiness**, portraying God as "great and dreadful," acknowledging His supreme authority and awe-inspiring nature. Secondly, the verse underscores **Covenant Faithfulness**, emphasizing God's unwavering commitment to His promises despite human failure, a concept foundational to understanding God's character throughout the Old Testament. Thirdly, it establishes the theme of **Human Responsibility and Repentance**, as Daniel's confession sets the stage for acknowledging the nation's sin and the necessity of turning back to God. Finally, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **Intercession**, as Daniel assumes the role of a mediator, pleading on behalf of his people, a role that foreshadows the ultimate intercessor. These themes are intricately woven into the fabric of the entire book, shaping Daniel's understanding of history and prophecy.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Confession (Hebrew, _yâdâh'_):** From H3034, this word literally means "to use (i.e. hold out) the hand," and physically, "to throw." However, in its intensive and most common usage, it means "to revere or worship (with extended hands)" and "to bemoan (by wringing the hands)," leading to the sense of "to confess" or "to give thanks." In Daniel 9:4, it signifies more than just admitting guilt; it implies an open, public acknowledgment of sin, often accompanied by a posture of reverence and submission to God. It is a heartfelt act of self-humiliation before a holy God, essential for true repentance and restoration.
* **Dreadful (Hebrew, _yârêʼ'_):** From H3372, this term signifies "to fear," but morally, "to revere." It describes God as awe-inspiring, terrible in His majesty, and commanding profound respect and reverence. It's not a fear that paralyzes with terror, but one that inspires worship, obedience, and a deep understanding of God's holiness and power. Daniel's use of "dreadful" alongside "great" emphasizes God's immense power and His absolute moral authority, before whom all creation should stand in reverent awe.
* **Mercy (Hebrew, _chêçêd'_):** From H2617, this rich Hebrew word is often translated as "lovingkindness," "steadfast love," or "loyal love." It denotes God's unfailing commitment, compassionate loyalty, and covenant faithfulness to His people. It is a quality of persistent, active love that goes beyond mere pity, demonstrating God's enduring grace and fidelity even when His people are undeserving. Daniel appeals to this foundational attribute of God, recognizing that despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God's _chêçêd_ remains steadfast for those who love and obey Him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I prayed unto the LORD my God,"**: This opening phrase immediately establishes Daniel's posture of earnest communication with the Almighty. The use of "LORD" (Yᵉhôvâh, God's personal covenant name) and "my God" (ʼĕlôhîym, emphasizing His power and Daniel's personal relationship) highlights the intimacy and reverence of his approach. It signifies a direct, personal appeal to the sovereign God of Israel.
* **"and made my confession,"**: This clause reveals the primary nature of Daniel's prayer: a profound act of self-humiliation and acknowledgment of sin. It's not merely a private thought but an open declaration before God, setting the stage for the subsequent corporate confession on behalf of Israel. This act of confession is foundational to seeking God's favor and forgiveness.
* **"and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God,"**: Daniel's address to God is filled with reverent awe. "O Lord" (ʼĂdônây, emphasizing God's mastership and authority) combined with "great" (gâdôwl, denoting His immense power and majesty) and "dreadful" (yârêʼ, signifying His awe-inspiring holiness and justice) paints a picture of a God who is both infinitely powerful and utterly holy. This comprehensive description acknowledges God's transcendent nature and His absolute moral rectitude.
* **"keeping the covenant and mercy"**: This phrase highlights God's unwavering faithfulness. Despite Israel's repeated breaches of the covenant, God remains true to His promises (bᵉrîyth) and His steadfast love (chêçêd). This attribute provides the basis for Daniel's hope and intercession, as he appeals to God's consistent character rather than Israel's merit.
* **"to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments;"**: This final clause clarifies the recipients of God's covenant faithfulness and mercy. It establishes a crucial condition: God's loyal love is specifically directed towards those who genuinely love Him and demonstrate that love through obedience to His commands. This reflects the reciprocal nature of the covenant relationship, where blessings are contingent upon faithfulness and adherence to God's revealed will.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 9:4 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Apostrophe**, as Daniel directly addresses God in a solemn and personal manner, immediately drawing the reader into the intimacy of his prayer. There is also a powerful **Juxtaposition** in Daniel's description of God as both "great and dreadful" and simultaneously "keeping the covenant and mercy." This highlights the paradoxical nature of God's character – His terrifying holiness and immense power balanced by His unwavering faithfulness and compassionate love. This contrast serves to deepen the sense of awe and trust. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of the concept of obedience through the phrases "love him" and "keep his commandments" emphasizes the essential link between genuine devotion and practical adherence to God's will, a foundational principle throughout the Mosaic Law. The entire verse functions as an **Invocation**, setting the tone and theological framework for Daniel's extended prayer of confession and petition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 9:4 provides a foundational theological statement about the character of God and the nature of humanity's relationship with Him. It asserts God's absolute sovereignty and transcendent holiness ("great and dreadful"), qualities that evoke reverent fear and worship. Crucially, it also affirms God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises and His boundless mercy (Hebrew: _chêçêd_), even in the face of human unfaithfulness. This tension between God's justice and His mercy is a central theme in biblical theology, demonstrating that while sin has consequences, God's character remains steadfast. The verse also underscores the reciprocal nature of the covenant: God's blessings and loyal love are specifically directed towards those who genuinely love Him and demonstrate that love through obedience to His commandments. This establishes a timeless principle that true faith is evidenced by a life of devoted adherence to God's revealed will.

* [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "God's Covenant Faithfulness")
* [Nehemiah 1:5](/nehemiah/1-5 "Nehemiah's Prayer Echoing Daniel's")
* [Exodus 34:6-7](/exodus/34-6-7 "The LORD's Self-Revelation of Mercy and Justice")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 9:4 offers a profound model for our own spiritual lives and prayer practices. It teaches us the indispensable value of beginning our communion with God with humble confession, acknowledging our own shortcomings and the holiness of the One we address. This posture of humility prepares our hearts to genuinely encounter God. Furthermore, Daniel's prayer highlights the importance of a robust theology – understanding God not merely as a benevolent friend, but as the "great and dreadful God" who is both infinitely powerful and utterly righteous, yet simultaneously overflowing with covenant faithfulness and mercy. This comprehensive view of God fosters both reverent awe and confident trust. The verse also serves as a powerful reminder that genuine love for God is intrinsically linked to obedience to His commandments. Our actions are not merely external duties but tangible expressions of our internal devotion. In times of personal or collective distress, like Daniel's, this verse encourages us to anchor our hope not in our own merit or circumstances, but in the unchanging character of God, who remains faithful to His promises for those who diligently seek Him and walk in His ways.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Daniel's immediate posture of "confession" challenge or affirm your usual approach to prayer?**
* **In what ways does understanding God as "great and dreadful" (awe-inspiring and holy) shape your reverence and trust in Him?**
* **How do you personally demonstrate your love for God through keeping His commandments, as emphasized in this verse?**
* **Considering God's faithfulness to His covenant and mercy, how does this verse encourage you to pray and hope in difficult circumstances?**

### FAQ

**Why does Daniel call God "dreadful" (or "terrible" in some translations)?**

Answer: The Hebrew word translated "dreadful" (yârêʼ) carries a nuanced meaning beyond mere terror. It signifies profound awe, reverence, and respect for God's holiness, power, and majesty. It's the kind of "fear of the Lord" that leads to worship and obedience, not paralyzing fright. Daniel uses it to acknowledge God's absolute authority and His capacity for righteous judgment, which demands the utmost reverence from His creation. It highlights God's transcendence and His unapproachable holiness, before whom all must stand in respectful awe.

**What is the significance of God "keeping the covenant and mercy"?**

Answer: This phrase is central to understanding God's character in the Old Testament. "Covenant" (bᵉrîyth) refers to the binding agreements God made with His people, particularly with Abraham and at Sinai, outlining His promises and their responsibilities. "Mercy" (chêçêd) denotes God's steadfast, loyal love and unfailing commitment. Together, they signify God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises and His compassionate loyalty to His people, even when they are unfaithful. Daniel appeals to this aspect of God's character as the very basis for his prayer, recognizing that despite Israel's sin, God's nature is to remain true to His word and to extend grace to those who return to Him. This divine attribute provides the hope for restoration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 9:4, with its emphasis on confession, God's dreadful holiness, His keeping of covenant and mercy, and the condition of loving and obeying Him, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Daniel confesses the sins of Israel and appeals to God's faithfulness within the Old Covenant, Jesus embodies the perfect fulfillment of both human obedience and divine mercy. He is the only one who perfectly "loved God" and "kept His commandments" ([John 15:10](/john/15-10 "Jesus' Perfect Obedience")), thereby fulfilling the very conditions Daniel mentions. Furthermore, Jesus is the mediator of a "new covenant" ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Jesus, Mediator of a Better Covenant")), established not on human obedience to the Law, but on His own perfect sacrifice. Through His atoning death, the "great and dreadful God" demonstrates His justice by punishing sin, yet simultaneously His boundless "mercy" by providing forgiveness and reconciliation for all who confess their sins and believe in Him ([1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "Confession and Forgiveness")). In Christ, God's covenant faithfulness is not merely maintained but magnified, as He extends His steadfast love to a people who could never perfectly keep His commands on their own. Thus, Daniel's prayer foreshadows the One who would perfectly fulfill the Law and become the ultimate expression of God's covenant-keeping mercy.

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

Romans 8:28

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.

Exodus 20:6

And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

Deuteronomy 5:10

And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments.

Daniel 9:5

We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments:

Daniel 9:12

And he hath confirmed his words, which he spake against us, and against our judges that judged us, by bringing upon us a great evil: for under the whole heaven hath not been done as hath been done upon Jerusalem.

Exodus 34:6

And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,

Exodus 34:7

Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear [the guilty]; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth [generation].