Old Testament
Daniel 9:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Daniel is reaching out to God with a heartfelt prayer.
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
So now, our God, hear the prayer and the pleas of your servant. For your own sake, Lord, let your face shine on your ruined sanctuary.
Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord’s sake.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Daniel is reaching out to God with a heartfelt prayer. He acknowledges his role as a servant and pleads for God's attention. Daniel is asking God to look favorably upon the temple, which has fallen into ruin. He emphasizes that this request is not just for the sake of the people, but for God's own honor. By asking God to let His face shine, Daniel is seeking restoration and hope. This reflects a deep desire for connection and healing, both for the place of worship and the community. Daniel's prayer is a reminder that we can approach God with our needs and concerns, trusting in His compassion and mercy. It shows that even in times of despair, we can seek God's presence and favor, believing that He cares for our struggles and desires to bring renewal. This verse encourages us to be honest in our prayers, recognizing our dependence on God for restoration and guidance in our lives. It highlights the importance of seeking God’s help in difficult times, reminding us of His willingness to listen and respond.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Daniel 9:17 to your life
When facing challenges, remember to bring your concerns to God in prayer. Like Daniel, be honest about your struggles and seek His guidance. Trust that God cares for your situation and desires to bring healing and hope into your life. Allow His presence to shine in your circumstances, bringing comfort and strength to you and those around you. Embrace the power of prayer as a means of connection with God and a source of encouragement.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 9:17 mean?
Daniel 9:17 is a prayer where Daniel asks God to listen to his pleas and restore the ruined temple. He emphasizes that this request is for God's own honor, seeking His favor and presence in a time of despair.
What is the significance of 'let your face shine' in Daniel 9:17?
The phrase 'let your face shine' in Daniel 9:17 symbolizes seeking God's favor and blessing. It expresses a desire for God's presence to bring restoration and hope to the desolate sanctuary.
How can I apply Daniel 9:17 to my life?
You can apply Daniel 9:17 by bringing your struggles to God in prayer, being honest about your needs, and trusting in His desire to bring healing and hope to your situation.
What themes are present in Daniel 9:17?
Key themes in Daniel 9:17 include prayer, restoration, God's mercy, community, and hope. These themes highlight the importance of seeking God's help during difficult times.

The Book of Daniel
Daniel 1: Daniel and His Friends in Babylon
In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon comes unto Jerusalem and besieges it. The Lord gives Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God, which he carries into the land of Shinar to the house of his god. The king speaks unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes; children in whom is no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as have ability in them to stand in the king's palace, whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. The king appoints them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank, so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king. Among these are of the children of Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The prince of the eunuchs gives them names: unto Daniel he gives the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.
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