Commentary on Daniel 9:21

Verse Context: Daniel 9:21 occurs in the midst of Daniel's prayer for the restoration of his people and Jerusalem. This verse specifically highlights the moment when he perceives a divine response while he was still praying.

Text of Daniel 9:21

"Yea, whiles I was speaking in prayer, even the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, touched me about the time of the evening oblation."

General Insights

This passage serves as a rich resource for understanding both prayer and divine intervention. It illustrates Gabriel's role as a messenger and the significance of the timing of God's responses to human prayers.

1. The Instantaneous Response to Prayer

Matthew Henry observes that Daniel's experience reveals a critical principle regarding the nature of prayer: God is attentive to the supplications of His people. As Daniel was deep in prayer, even mid-sentence, God sent Gabriel, suggesting that divine assistance often arrives at the very moment it is needed.

2. The Role of Gabriel

Henry further notes that Gabriel's swift flight symbolizes God's readiness to answer prayer. Gabriel, whose name means "God is my strength," signifies the strength and assurance that God provides in times of need. Albert Barnes points out that angels are often seen as the agents of God's purposes, providing an important link between the divine and human spheres.

3. Timing and Divine Providence

Adam Clarke emphasizes the importance of the timing of the angel's arrival. He notes that this event occurred "about the time of the evening oblation," suggesting that God is vested in the sacred rituals and times of His people. The evening sacrifice was a pivotal moment for Israel’s worship, illustrating the harmony between God’s timing and human worship.

• Evening Oblation: Acknowledgment that this was a significant time for prayer and sacrifice.
• Continuity of Worship: The consistency in prayer is vital in the life of a believer, appealing to God’s nature.

4. The Significance of Daniel's Vision

Daniel refers to "the vision at the beginning," indicating that he had prior experiences with divine revelations. This continuity of communication reinforces the idea that God repeatedly engages with His prophets. Clarke interprets this as a reminder of God's ongoing revelation and guidance in the lives of believers.

5. The Importance of Prayer

This verse serves as an encouragement for both pastors and laypeople to persist in prayer. As noted by Barnes, the immediacy of Gabriel's arrival encourages believers to understand that, while answers may not always be visible, they are always a part of God’s plan.

• Encouragement to Persevere: Daniel’s fervency sets an example for believers to follow.
• God's Agency: Recognition that God actively participates in responding to His people's prayers.

6. Practical Applications for Today's Believers

For modern pastors and theologians, this verse has manifold implications:

• Understanding Angelic Ministry: Gabriel's role reminds us of the unseen spiritual battles and assists that accompany our ministry.
• Prayer as a Means of Divine Engagement: This passage invites a deeper examination of the role of prayer in our spiritual lives, encouraging a proactive approach to engaging with God.
• Divine Timing in Ministry: Highlights the synchronization of our prayers with God’s timing and purposes, reinforcing faith that God will respond according to His perfect will.

Conclusion

Daniel 9:21 encapsulates profound truths about prayer, divine response, and the active role of angels in God’s plan for humanity. As we reflect on this verse, may we be inspired to commit ourselves to prayer, while trusting in the sovereign timing and agency of our God, who listens and responds even in the midst of our supplications.