Old Testament
Daniel 9:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
We have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God or followed the laws he gave us through his servants the prophets.
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Neither have we obeyed the voice of the LORD our God, to walk in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets.
What Daniel 9:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker acknowledges a serious failure: they have not listened to God or followed the guidance He provided through His prophets. This reflects a deep sense of regret and recognition of their disobedience. The voice of God is not just a distant echo; it is a call to live rightly and justly. The laws given are not mere rules but a pathway to a fulfilling life. By ignoring these teachings, they have strayed from the path intended for them. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of being attentive to divine guidance and the consequences of neglecting it. It highlights the need for humility and a willingness to return to the right way. Understanding this can inspire us to reflect on our own lives and the ways we may have ignored wisdom and guidance offered to us. It’s a call to reconnect with what truly matters and to seek a better path forward, embracing the lessons learned from past mistakes and striving for a more obedient heart towards what is good.
How to apply Daniel 9:10 to your life
Consider areas in your life where you may not be listening to wise advice or guidance. Reflect on the consequences of ignoring these insights. Make a conscious effort to seek and follow the wisdom available to you, whether through trusted friends, mentors, or personal reflection. This can lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful life journey. Embrace the opportunity to change and grow from past mistakes, moving forward with intention.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
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Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Daniel's Prayer (Daniel 9:1–27)
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Daniel

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Daniel 9:10
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At a Glance — the Book of Daniel
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 9:10 teach about obedience to God?
Daniel 9:10 emphasizes the importance of obeying God's voice and following His laws. The verse reflects a collective acknowledgment of failure to heed divine guidance, highlighting that disobedience leads to straying from the intended path. It serves as a reminder that God's laws are meant to guide us toward a fulfilling life, and ignoring them can have serious consequences.
How can I apply the lessons from Daniel 9:10 in my life?
To apply the lessons from Daniel 9:10, start by examining areas in your life where you may be ignoring wise counsel or divine guidance. Reflect on the outcomes of past decisions made without considering this wisdom. Make a conscious effort to seek advice from trusted sources, whether friends, mentors, or spiritual leaders, and commit to following that guidance to foster personal growth and a more purposeful life.
What is the significance of prophets in Daniel 9:10?
In Daniel 9:10, prophets are significant as they serve as God's messengers, delivering His laws and guidance to the people. The verse underscores the role of prophets in helping individuals understand and follow God's will. Recognizing the importance of these prophetic voices can encourage believers to be more attentive to spiritual teachings and the wisdom they offer.
Why is regret mentioned in Daniel 9:10?
Regret in Daniel 9:10 highlights the speaker's acknowledgment of their disobedience to God's commands. This sense of regret is crucial for spiritual growth, as it reflects a desire to return to the right path. It serves as a powerful reminder that recognizing our mistakes is the first step toward repentance and seeking a closer relationship with God.
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