Book of Daniel - Chapter 9 - Verse 19

In this verse, the speaker is petitioning the Lord for three things: to hear, to forgive, and to act. By starting with "O Lord, hear," the speaker is asking for God's attention and recognition of their plea. This sets the stage for the subsequent requests for forgiveness and action. The plea for forgiveness is a common theme in many prayers throughout the Bible, as humans acknowledge their shortcomings and seek God's mercy and grace. The final request for God to hearken and act without delay shows the urgency of the speaker's plea. They are asking God to intervene promptly for the sake of His own reputation and honor, as well as for the well-being of His city and people. The speaker acknowledges the special relationship between God and His people, referring to them as being "called by thy name." This emphasizes the speaker's belief in the unique identity and chosen status of God's city and people, highlighting the importance of their relationship with God.

The verse "O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for thine own sake, O my God: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name" (Daniel 9:19) is a heartfelt plea by the prophet Daniel on behalf of the city of Jerusalem and the people of Israel. In this verse, the word "hear" signifies a request for God to listen attentively to Daniel's supplication. The word "forgive" highlights the acknowledgment of sin and the need for divine mercy and forgiveness. The word "hearken" is a call for God to take action based on Daniel's petition. The phrase "defer not" emphasizes the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate divine intervention. The verse also underscores the relationship between God's reputation and the well-being of His people, as Daniel appeals to God's own sake. Through this poignant prayer, Daniel demonstrates his deep concern for the welfare of his city and people, and his unwavering faith in God's power to intervene on their behalf.