Old Testament
Daniel 9:7
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O LORD, righteousness belongs to you, but we are in confusion and shame, as it is today; this applies to the men of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and all of Israel, both those near and those far away in all the countries where you have driven them because of their trespass against you.
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O LORD, righteousness belongeth unto thee, but unto us confusion of faces, as at this day; to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and unto all Israel, that are near, and that are far off, through all the countries whither thou hast driven them, because of their trespass that they have trespassed against thee.
What Daniel 9:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Daniel acknowledges that God is completely just and righteous, while the people of Israel are filled with confusion and shame. This feeling of shame is not just for a few, but it extends to everyone in Judah, Jerusalem, and all of Israel, whether they are close by or scattered in distant lands. The reason for this shame is their wrongdoing against God, which has led to their exile and suffering. Daniel's heartfelt confession highlights the deep sense of loss and the recognition of their mistakes. It serves as a reminder that while God remains faithful and just, the consequences of their actions have brought about their current state of despair. This moment of honesty is crucial for understanding their need for repentance and restoration. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing our faults and seeking forgiveness, which is a step toward healing and reconciliation with God. Daniel's words resonate with anyone who has felt lost or ashamed, reminding us that acknowledging our shortcomings is the first step toward change.
How to apply Daniel 9:7 to your life
When we face confusion and shame in our lives, it's important to recognize our mistakes and seek forgiveness. Just like Daniel, we can turn to God, acknowledging our shortcomings. This act of honesty can lead to healing and a renewed sense of purpose. Remember, it's never too late to seek a fresh start with God by our side.
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 9:7
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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 9:7 mean?
Daniel 9:7 expresses the contrast between God's righteousness and the confusion and shame felt by the people of Israel due to their sins. It highlights their acknowledgment of wrongdoing and the consequences of their actions, which led to their exile.
What is the significance of confusion and shame in Daniel 9:7?
The confusion and shame mentioned in Daniel 9:7 signify the deep regret and recognition of the people's failures before God. It reflects their collective guilt and the impact of their transgressions on their relationship with God.
What does the phrase 'righteousness belongs to you' mean in Daniel 9:7?
The phrase 'righteousness belongs to you' in Daniel 9:7 acknowledges that God is just and fair in all His ways, contrasting with the people's state of confusion and shame due to their sins.
How does Daniel 9:7 relate to the theme of repentance?
Daniel 9:7 relates to the theme of repentance by showing the people's recognition of their wrongdoings and their need for forgiveness. It serves as a reminder that acknowledging one's faults is essential for healing and restoration.
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