CHAP. IX.
Daniel, being assured that the end of the captivity was near, fasts; humbles himself in confessing his sins and those of his people; and earnestly prays for the restoration of Jerusalem, 1 -19. Gabriel is sent to inform him, that the city, being rebuilt, shall continue for seventy weeks of years; when the Messiah, having been cut off for the sins of his people, and the covenant confirmed with many; the legal sacrifices would
were predicted. He, however, at length_recovered his health and composure, and attended to the business, about which the king had employed him: though it seems he had only a very imperfect understanding of this extraordinary vision.
PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS.
V. 1-8.
As the scriptures were written in the language of the people, to whom they were especially addressed; so ought they to be faithfully translated into the language of every country, to which they are sent; that men may have free access to them, and be made wise to eternal salvation. Indeed every thing, in religion, should be made as plain as possible to rate and whatever counteracts this intention the meanest capacity, and to the most illite
savors more of the subtlety of Antichrist, than of the wisdom and simplicity of Christ."When holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost," they declared future events, as if they had been eye-witnesses of the performance of them. To "this light, that shineth in a dark place, we shall do well to take heed," until the day of glory dawn in our hearts, and "the witness in ourselves" establish at once our belief of the truth of the scriptures, and the assurance of our own interest in the blessings there revealed. ( Notes ,
2 Pet . 1:19. 1 John 5:9,10.)—The most feeble of the creatures become formidable enemies, if God be pleased to employ them against us; and it often happens, in providence as well
in grace, that "the first become last, and the last first."-Powerful inen commonly employ themselves in pushing down their neighbors, and trampling upon them: they are not willing, that any should stand before or escape them; for they desire to do their own will, and become unrivalled in greatness, whatever mischiefs they bring upon others. But such men lay the axe to the root of their own greatness: they multiply enemies along with their successes: and thus others avenge the cause of the oppressed; and fulfil the righteous judgments of God; even when urged forward by their own impetuous ambition, rapacity, or resentment. When prosperous warriors thus drive furiously, and carry all before them, and millions admire their consummate valor and conduct, or their good fortune; perhaps their enterprises are little better than madness,
though rendered successful by Providence, till they have reached their appointed limits;
and then in the midst of their career of pros
perity, they are suddenly removed: and while
men dispute about the second causes of the disaster; it is plain that the first great Cause of all had no more of his plan for them to exe- cute, and therefore he cut them off, to make room for other instruments. We perceive this clearly by comparing these prophecies with the records of their accomplishment; and we shall see it as evident in the case of others, as in that of Alexander, if we steadily exercise our faith on the word of God, and judge of every character, action, and event, by that rule. V. 9-14.
be terminated, and desolating judgments overwhelm both the city and nation, 20-27.
N the first year of a Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes, * which was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans;
a 5:31. 6:1,28. 1):1. * Or, in which he, &c.
broken" without remedy, the earth might be quiet, but that others arise in their stead, to keep the nations in perpetual tumult, and to drench the earth with the blood of its inhab- itants. This is an abstract of the history of mankind: nor have the pleasant lands, where the light of heavenly truth has most clearly shined, escaped these desolations. Those who fill the earth with war, are frequently disposed to vex the church with persecution; and they often scarcely think theniselves mighty in pow- er, till they have declared war against the ar- mies of the living God, and trampled down those, who are burning and shining lights on earth, and who shall shine as stars in the kingdom of God for ever. Whether they in- tend i tend it, or not, they "magnify themselves against the King of kings, the Prince" of the holy army of martyrs, when they persecute his people. They may indeed so far prevail, as to put a stop to the public preaching of the
gospel, and administration of divine ordinan
ces; they may silence the ministers and trample
on the truths and sanctuary of Christ; they "destroy wonderfully the mighty and may "destroy wonderfu holy people" e" of God; they may unite fierceness with policy and power, "and practise and prosper:" yet their successes will have an appointed period: and when the hypocrites are ficiently proved and purified, they will "be broken without hand." Many, Many who for ba time had power given them for these purposes, have thus run their course, and perished
off, the believers
miserably in their sins. The two thousand and three hundred days will soon expire, when every enemy shall be destroyed, and the sanctuary cleansed; when the time of the indignation shall come to an end, and the church's tears shall terminate in joy and praise.
V.15-27.
While some things are exceedingly plain in these prophecies, for our conviction; let us remember that difficulties still remain, among other reasons, to be a touchstone of our modesty and sincerity. If we humbly desire to understand the meaning of them, our great Prophet will lead us into it as far as is good for us: but we may be thankful to be taught by the instrumentality of men, and by the silent teaching of the Holy Spirit: for the glory even of angels, if they were to appear to us sinful worms of the earth, would scarcely be sup
portable; and the best of us should need much encouragement to endure their visible pres
ence, or hear their kindest words: at so
great a distance has sin placed us from the world of spirits, to which otherwise we should have been most nearly allied! But amidst all our doubts and discouragements, on our own
account, or that of the gospel, we may, if true believers, look forward with a cheerful hope of
a happy event; and we should thus endeavor to compose our minds for attending on the business, to which we are severally appointed, in the church and in the world.
NOTES.
CHAP. IX. V. 1. Marg , and Marg . Ref. Notes , 5:30,31. Ezra 1:1-4 . - Darius .] 'This is 'the same person, who is called Cyaxares, the
When turbulent conquerors are "suddenly || 'son of Astyages, by the heathen historians,
2 In the first year of his reign, I Daniel thy servants the prophets, which spake in
understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem.
3 And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes:
4 And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments;
5 We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts, and from thy judgments:
[Practical Observations.]
6 Neither have we hearkened unto
b 8:15,16. Ps. 119:24,99,100. Matt. 24:15. Mark 13:14. Acts 8:34. 1 Tim. 4:13. 2 Tim. 3: 15-17. 1 Pet. 1:10-12.2 Pet. 1:19-21. Rev. 1:3. c 2 Chr. 36:21. Jer. 25:11,12. 27:7. 29:10. Zech. 7:5.
d Ps. 74:3-7. 79:1,2. Is. 6:11, 12. 24:10-12. 64:10. Jer. 7: 34. 25:18. 26:6,18. Lam. 1:1. Mic. 3:12.
e 6:10. Neh. 1:4. Ps. 102:1317. Jer. 29:12,13. 33:3. Ez. 36:37. Jam. 5:16-18.
f 10:2,3. Ezra 8:21. 9:5. 10:6. Neh. 1:4. 9:1. Esth. 4:1-3, 16. Ps. 35:13. 69:10,11. Is. 22:12. Joel 1:13. 2:12. Jon. 3:6-9. Luke 2:37. Acts 10: 30. Jam. 4:8-10.
g 5-12. Lev. 26.40-42.1 Kings 8:47-49. 2 Chr. 7:14. Neh. 9:2,3. Ps. 32:5. Jer. 3:
13. 1 John 1:8-10.
h Ex. 20:6. 34:6,7. Num. 14:18, 19. Deut. 5:10. 7:9. 1 Kings
thy name to mour kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land.
7 O Lord, unto thee, but
as at this day;
righteousness belongeth unto us confusion of faces, to the men of Judah, and of Jerusalem, and unto near, and that are far countries whither thou because of their tres
to the inhabitants all Israel, that are
off, through all the
hast driven them, pass that they have trespassed against thee.
8 O Lord, to us belongeth confusion of face; to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers; because we have sinned against thee.
9 To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against him;
10 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
8:23. Neh. 1:5. 9:32. Jer. 32: prophets.
17-19. Mic. 7:18-20. Nah. 1:2-7. Luke 1:72. Rom. 8: 28. Jam. 1:12. 2:5. 1 John 5: 2,3.
i1 Kings 8:47-50. 2 Chr. 6:37 -39. Ezra 9:6. Neh. 1:6-8. 9:33,34. Ps. 106:6. Is. 64:5-7. Jer. 3:25.
k Ps. 18:21. 119:102. Is. 59:13. Ez. 6:9. Hos. 1:2. Mal. 3:7. Heb. 3:12.
110. 2 Kings 17:13,14. 2 Chr. 33:10. 36:15,16. Is. 30:10,11. Jer. 6:16,17. 7:13,25,26. 25:3 -7. 26:5, 29:19. 32:32,33. 44: 4,5,16. Zech. 1:4-6. 7:8-12. Matt. 21:34-40. 23:37. Luke 20:10-12. Acts 7:51,52, 13: 27.1 Thes. 2:15,16.
'with whom Josephus agrees. ... Astyages had 'the name of Ahasuerus among the Jews, as 'appears by a passage in Tobit, (14:15.) where 'the taking of Nineveh is ascribed to Nebu'chadanosor and Assuerus, who were the same 'with Nabopollasar, Nebuchadnezzar's father, 'and Astyages.' Lowth .
V. 2, 3. It is probable that Daniel received the answer to his prayer, which is recorded in the concluding part of this chapter, a short time before he was cast into the den of lions; and it was an excellent introduction to that trial of his faith and piety. ( Notes , 6:)-He earned from the books of the prophets, especially froin the writings of Jeremiah, that the desolations of Jerusalem would continue
11 Yea, * all Israel have transgressed thy law, even by departing, that they
m Ezra 9:7. Neh. 9:32,34. n 8,14. Deut. 32:4. Ezra 9:13. Neh. 9:33. Ps. 51:4,14. 119: 137. Jer. 12:1. Luke 23:40,41. * Or, thou hast, &c.
o Ezra 9:6,7. Ps. 44:15. Is. 45: 16,17. Jer. 2:26,27, 3:25. Ez. 16:63. 36:31. Rom. 6:21.
p Deut. 4:27. 2 Kings 17:6,7. Is. 11:11. Jer. 24:9. Am. 9:9. Acts 2:5-11.
q See on 6,7.
r Jer. 14:20. Lam. 1:7,8,18. 3: 42. 5:16.
$7. Ex. 34:6,7. Num. 14:18,19.
Neh. 9:17,31. Ps. 62:12. 26:5, 15. 130:4,7. 145:8,9. Is. 55:7. 63:7. Lam. 3:22,23. Jon. 4:2. Mic. 7:18,19. Eph. 1:6-8. 2:4 -7.
t See on 5.- Neh. 9:18,19,2628. Ps. 106:43-45. Jer. 14:7. Fz. 20:8,9,13,14.
u See on 6.-2 Kings 17:13. 18: 12. Ezra 9:10,11. Neh. 9:1317. Heb. 1:1.
x2 Kings 17.18-23. Is. 1:4-6. Jer. 8:5-10. 9:26. Ez. 22:26 -31
ance of his promised mercy to his afflicted people, and his future blessings upon them. He had his regular hours of prayer three times a day, and we may be sure that he did not forget his people on those occasions: ( Note , 6:10, 11.) yet he regarded it as a duty incumbent on him, to set apart stated seasons for mortification and devotion, in the distressed state of his people and the church of God. ( Marg . Ref . e, f.)
V. 4. It may be supposed, that Daniel enlarged very much on these particulars, in his copious supplications, of which he has given a compendium. In these he first confessed the sins of himself and his people, and professed his belief in the terrible greatness and power
seventy years, which he understood were of Israel's God, and his covenanted mercy and drawing to a conclusion. ( Marg . Ref . b-d.) favor to those, who loved him and kept his 'We may observe from hence, that the proph-commandments: for others were only nominal 'ets studied the writings of those prophets Israelites, who had forfeited their privileges 'who were before them, for the more perfect by their crimes, and by impenitence and un'understanding of the times when their proph- belief. ( Marg . Ref . Notes , Ex . 20:6.34:5-7. 'ecies were to be fulfilled.' Lowth . These sev- Lev . 26:40-42. Ezra 9:6. Neh . 1:5-11. 9:2,3. enty years were dated from the latter end of Mic . 7:18-20. Nah . 1:2-6. Rom . 8:28-31, v .
the third, or beginning of the fourth, year of Tehoiakim, when Daniel was carried captive, and this was the sixty-ninth of them. (See on Note 1:1,2.)-The prophet was considerably above eighty years of age at this time, and chief President of the whole kingdom: yet he diligently set himself to seek from God, by prayer and fasting, with every token of sorrow, humiliation, and self-denial, the perform
28. Heb . 12:22-29.)- 'The better men are, the 'greater is the sense of their guilt, and the 'deeper is their humiliation. ( Job 42:6. 1 Tim . '1:15.)' Lowth . (Notes and P. O. Matt . 8:513. Note , Eph . 3:8.)
V. 5, 6. Marg . Ref . Notes , 7-10.1 Kings 8:46-53. Ezra 9:7. Neh . 9:26-34. Ps . 106:6,7, 34-38.
V. 7-10. He sheweth, that whensoever
his voice.
might not obey thy voice; therefore the || works which he doeth; for we obeyed not curse is poured upon us, and the oath that is written in the law of Moses the servant of God, because we have sinned against him.
12 And he hath confirmed his words, which he spake against us, and against * our judges that judged us, by bringing upon us a great evil: for under the whole heaven hath not been done, as hath been done upon Jerusalem.
13 As it is written in the law of Moses, all this evil is come upon us: d yet * made we not our prayer before the LORD our God, that we might turn from our iniquities, and understand thy truth.
14 Therefore hath the LORD watched upon the evil, and brought it upon us: for & the LORD our God is righteous in all his
y Lev. 26:14,&c. Deut. 27:15 | d Job 36:13. Is. 9:13. Jer. 2:30. -26. 28:15, &c. 29:26, &c. 30: 17-19. 31:17,18. 32:19 42.
z Is. 44:26. Lam. 2:17. Ez. 13:6. Matt. 5:18. Rom. 15:8. a 1 Kings 3:9. Job 12:17. Ps. 2:10. 148:11. Prov. 8:16.
b Lam. 1:12. 2:13. 4:6. Ez. 5: 9. Joel 2:2. Am. 3:2. Matt.
24:21. Mark 13:19. Luke 21: 22.
c See on 11.-Is. 42:9. John 10: 35.
5:3. Hos. 7:7,10,14.
Heb. entreated we not the face of, & c.
e Deut. 29:4. Ps. 85:4. 119:18, 27,73. Is. 64:7. Jer. 31:18.
15 And now, O Lord our God, that hast brought thy people forth out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and hast gotten thee renown, as at this day; i we have sinned, we have done wickedly.
16 O Lord, according to all thy righteousness, I beseech thee, let thine anger and thy fury be turned away from thy city Jerusalem, thy holy mountain: because, for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, ■ Jerusalem and thy people are become a reproach to all that are about us.
17 Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon Pthy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord's sake.
Lam. 5:21. Luke 24:45. John See on 5.-Luke 15:18,19,21. 6:45. 8:32. Eph. 1:17,18. 4:21. Jam. 1:5.
f Jer. 31:28. 44:27.
g See on 7.-Neh. 9:33. Ps. 51:
14.
'God punisheth, he doth it for just cause: and 'thus the godly never accuse him of rigor, 'as the wicked do; but acknowledge that in 'themselves there is just cause why he should 'so entreat them.' Daniel also recollected, that abundant mercies and forgivenesses, as well as perfect justice, belonged to God: so that even the rebellious might hope in him, when brought to a sense of their guilt and danger.The kings of Judah and Israel were dead, and there were at that time no inhabitants of Judah or Jerusalem; but the prophet considers not only the generation of Israel then living, but also the several orders of men, who, in former ages, had provoked God to pour out vengeance on the nation. He shews that the whole blame lay on them, and that they had all acted most shamefully. Some had been covered with "confusion of face," as true penitents, and the rest would inherit everlasting shame and contempt. ( Marg.and Marg . Ref . Note, 12:2,3.)
Set before us , &c. (10) Or, "Placed before our faces." The plain instructions and pressing exhortations of the prophets are thus described, in order to aggravate the guilt of those, who notwithstanding persisted in rebellion. ( Marg . Ref . u.- Notes , 2 Kings 17:12-15. Neh . 9:26--30. Zech . 1:5,6. 7:8-13. Acts 7:51--53.) V. 11. Marg . Ref . Notes , Deut . 27:15-26. 28:15. 29:10-15,19-25. Lam . 2:17. Ez . 20:33
-38.
V. 12. ( Marg . Ref.) The destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans, and the condition of the Jews during almost eighteen centuries, have far more exceeded all the miseries caused by the Chaldeans in taking Jerusalem, and in the Babylonish captivity, than those miseries exceeded the judgments inflicted on other nations: and, is it not then evident, that the guilt of crucifying the Messiah, and rejecting his Gospel, was immensely more atrocious, than all their previous transgressions? ( Note , 25-27.) V. 13. As it is written , &c.] 'A devout ac
18:13.
k 1 Sam. 12:7. Neh. 9:8. Ps. $1:1. 71:2. 143:1. Mic. 6:4,5. 2 Thes. 1:6. 1 John 1:9.
1 See on 20. - Ps. 87:1-3. Joel 3:17. Zech. 8:3.
n1 Kings 9:7-9. Ps. 44:13,14. 79:4. Is. 64:9-11. Jer. 24:9. 29:18. Lam. 1:8,9. 2:15,16. o Num. 6:23-26. Ps. 4:6. 67: 1. 80:1,3,7,19. 119:135. Rev. 21:23.
p Lam. 5:18.
q See on 19.-John 16:24. 2 Cor. 1:20.
'knowledgment of God's justice and prov'idence in making his judgments exactly fulfil 'the threatenings denounced many ages before 'by Moses. ( Lev . 26:14, &c. Deut . 28:15, &c.)' Lowth . Thus every succeeding part of the sacred writings attests and proves the divine authority of those parts which preceded. The history relates the fulfilment of former pre dictions ; and then new prophecies are added, which future events accomplish. ( Note , Is . 42: 8,9.)
Yet made we not, &c.] Few of the Jews, comparatively, humbly prayed for deliverance from their troubles, as expecting it from the power and mercy of God: and some, who prayed to him for help in affliction, did not seek for his converting grace, or desire to be turned from all their iniquities, and to understand his truth and will. ( Marg . Ref . d, e. Notes , Is . 64:6-8, v . 7. Jer . 31:18-20. Lam. 5: 19-22, v . 21. 2 T'im . 2:23-26.)
V. 14. Marg. Ref . Note , 7-10.- Watched .] The Jews had watched for opportunities of committing wickedness; and therefore the Lord watched his opportunity of executing deserved punishment upon them: that is, he did it at the most proper time, and in the most effectual manner, in order to make known the glory of his holy name. (Note, Jer. 31:27,28.) V. 15, 16. Marg . and Marg .
Ref . h, i. l. n.Thy righteousness. (16) The Lord had glorified his "righteousness" in punishing the people for their sins; but his justice would also consist with the exercise of mercy towards them: and, as he had promised to deliver and restore them, it was become in some sense an act of righteousness to do it; the honor also of his word and of his holy name required this, and it involved all the interests of truth and righteousness on earth. 'According to all thy 'merciful promises and the performance there'of.' ( Marg . Ref . k. -Notes , Ps . 7:8-11 143:1, 2.1 John 1:8-10, v. 9.)
V. 17. Marg. Ref . -Notes, Num . 6:24-26.
Ps. 4:6-8. 67:1-3 . - The Lord's sake.] That is, either for "his own name's sake," and not for their sake; ( Ez . 36:22,32.) or for the sake of Christ, "the Lord," as most Christian interpreters have understood it.-'For the sake of the 'Messias, known by the title of the Lord among 'the Jews; ( Ps . 110:1.) and called "Messiah the 'Prince." (25) All God's promises are fulfilled
'in and for the sake of Christ. (2 Cor . 1:20.) Lowth .-Jerusalem must be rebuilt and the Jews restored, in order to the performance of the promises concerning the Lord Christ. ( Note , Hos . 1:6,7.)
V. 18. Marg . and Marg. Ref. Notes , 1 Kings 8:28-30,46-53. 2 Kings 19:14-19. Neh . 1:5-11. 9:31–35 . Is . 64:6—8. Jer . 14:79. Ez . 36:31-37. - We do not , &c.] 'Declaring 'that the godly flee only unto God's mercies, 'and renounce their own works, when they 'seek for the remission of their sins.'
V. 19. He could not content himself with 'any vehemency of words: for he was so led
21 Yea, whiles I was speaking in prayer, even the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused d to fly swiftly, touched me about the time of the evening-oblation.
22 And he informed me and talked with me, and said, O Daniel, I am now come forth to give thee skill and under standing.
23 At the beginning of thy supplications the || commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee ; for thou art "greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision.
24 Seventy 1 weeks are determined upon thy people, and upon thy holy city, to ** finish the transgression, and to ft make
с 8:16. 10:16. Luke 1:19,26. d Ps. 103:20. 104:4. Is. 6.2. Ez. 1:11,14. Heb. 1:7.
Heb. with weariness, or, flight .
e 8:18. 10:10,16,18. Is. 6:6,7. Acts 12:7. Heb. 1:14.
f 1 Kings 18:36. Ezra 9:5. Matt. 27:46. Acts 3:1. 10:3,9. g See on 24-27.-8:16. 10:21. Zech. 1:9,14. 6:4,5. Rev. 1:1. Heb. make thee skilful of understanding.
h 10.12.
V. 21-23. While Daniel was thus humbling himself before God, and earnestly pleading in behalf of his people and Jerusalem, and for blessings on the church of God; the angel
Gabriel, (called (called here "the man," because he
appeared in human form,) whom he had seen in a former vision, (8:16.) came flying swiftly, as one in haste and earnest, to answer his
prayers and relieve his anxiety. He touched Daniel about the time of the evening-oblation, the hour when it had been offered while the temple was standing; or at three o'clock in the afternoon; ternoon; about which hour Christ our Sacrifice expired. ( Marg . Ref . f.- Notes , 1 Kings 18:36,37. 18:36,37. Acts 10:3-8, v. 3.) Probably, Daniel had spent all the former part of the day, in fasting, prayer, and religious exercises, and was about to conclude for the present: but, whilst he was thus earnestly engaged, the angel "touched him," and excited his attention; informing him that he was commissioned to instruct him in the most important matters,
'with a fervent zeal; considering God's prom-connected with the subject of his prayers: for 'ise made to the city, in respect of the church, he had no sooner begun to pray, than the Lord 'and for the advancement of his glory.' ( Marg . commanded Gabriel to come to him; as he was Ref . Notes , Ps . 44:23-26. 79:8-13. 102:12- a man "greatly beloved," a special favorite of 22. Is . 63:15-19. 64:9—12.)—Perhaps Daniel heaven, even one in whom the Lord greatly defeared lest the promised blessing should be de-lighted. ( Marg . and Ref . ) Therefore he should but not for
layed, through the neglect of the people: supposing that but few of them earnestly prayed for it. ( Notes , Jer . 29:11-14. Ez . 36:37.)-The humble, fervent, believing importunity of his prayer, is most admirable, and worthy of im
itation.
V. 20. Marg. Ref . My sin , &c.] Daniel's character stands so fair in scripture, for wisdom and piety, from early youth to extreme old age, that we should scarcely have known that he was a sinner if he had not told us so: yet doubtless he was proportionably humbled before God for his sins of heart and life; and considered the continued calamities of the nation as a chastisement of his offences, as well as for those of his countrymen. ( Notes , Ec . 7: 19,20. Is . 6:5. 53:4-6, v. 6. Jam. 3:1,2, v. 2. 1 John 1:8-10. 3:4-6, ν . 5.)
and be en
understand the plan of Providence, an abled to consider the vision in a satisfactory manner. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref . g-k.- Notes , Matt . 24:15-18, v. 15. Rev. 1:3. 22:6,7.)-It is probable, that Daniel had prayed, not only for the restoration of the Jews from captivity, and the rebuilding of the city and temple; but also, that they might be preserved from returning to those sins which had brought the calamities upon thein; for the continuance of divine favor to them; and for all the blessings which were expected from the coming of the promised Mes siah: and the following vision was an answer to these prayers and desires of his heart. ( Note Is . 65:24,25, v. 24.)-‘Learned men have ob 'served a near affinity between the prophecy of Daniel, and the Revelation of St. John 'and we may take notice, that much the same
an end of sins, and to make reconcilia-|| shall Messiah be cut off, tion for iniquity, and • to bring in ever- himself: and the people of the prince that lasting righteousness, and to seal up the shall come shall destroy the city and the vision and * prophecy, and to anoint the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be most Holy.
25 Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem, unto the Messiah the Prince, shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks:the street shall be built again, and the wall, * even in troublous times. 26 And after threescore and two weeks
n Lev. 8:15. 2 Chr. 29:24. Is. 53:10. Rom. 5:10. 2 Cor. 5: 18-20. Col. 1:20,21. Heb. 2:17.
o Is. 51:6,8, 53:11. 56:1. Jer. 23:6. Rom. 3:21,22. 1 Cor. 1:30. 2 Cor. 5:21. Phil. 3:9. Heb. 9:12-14. 2 Pet. 1:1. p Matt. 11:13. Luke 24:25- 27,44,45. John 19:28-30. * Heb. prophet. Acts 3:22. q Ps. 2:6. marg. 45:7. Is. 61: 1. Luke 4:18-21. John 3:34. Heb. 1:8,9.
r Mark 1:24. Luke 1:35. Acts
3:14. Heb. 7:26. Rev. 3:7. s Seepn 23.- Matt. 13:23. Mark 13:14. Acts 8:30.
t Ezra 4:24. 6:1-15. 7:8,11- 26. Neh. 2:1-8. 3:1,&c. Or, build again. u John 1:41. 4:25. ▼8:11,25. Is. 9:6. 55:4. Mic. 5:2. Acts 3:15. 5:31. Rev. 1:5. 19:16.
Heb. return and be builded. Or, breach , or ditch .
x Neh. 4:8,16-18. Eph. 5:16. || Heb. strait of times. Neh. 6:15.
with a flood, and unto the end of the war ** desolations are determined.
27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for tt the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
y Ps. 22:15. Is. 53:8. Luke 24:26,46. John 11:51,52. 12: 32-34. 2 Cor. 5:21. Gal. 3: 13. 1 Pet. 2:24. 3:18.
Or, and shall have nothing. John 14:30.
z Matt. 22:7. 23:38.24:2. Mark 13:2. Luke 19:43,44. 21:6,24. Acts 6:13,14.
a Matt. 24:6-14. Mark 13:7. b 11:10,22. Is. 8:7,8. Jer. 46:7, 8. Am. 8:8. 9:5.
** Or, it shall be cut off by des- olations.
c Is. 55:3. Jer. 31:31-34. 32:
40-42. Ez. 16:60-63. Matt. 26:28. Rom. 15:8,9. Gal. 3: 13-17. Heb. 6:13-18.8:8- 13. 9:15-20. 10:16-18. 13: 20,21.
d Matt. 27:51. Heb. 10:4-22. †† Or, with the abominable ar- mies. 8:13. 12:11. Matt. 24: 15. Mark 13:14. Luke 21:20. 40:36. Is. 10:22,23. 28:22. Luke 21:24. Rom. 11:26. f Lev. 26:14, &c. Deut. 4:26-28. 28:15,&c. 29:18, &c. 30:17,18. 31:28,29. 32:19, &c. Ps. 69:22 -28. 1 Thes. 2:15,16.
'title is given to them both. Daniel is styled in this Holy One of God being anointed by the
، "a man greatly beloved;" ... and the character 'given to St. John, is that of "the disciple 'whom Jesus loved." ( John 21:20,24.)' Lowth . V. 24. We have, in this and the following verses, one of the most undeniable prophecies of Christ, and of his coming and salvation, which is found in the whole Old Testament: and they contain the true reason, why the Jews are unwilling to call Daniel a prophet; as this prediction demonstrates, that Jesus was the promised Messiah, and that they are guilty of the most obstinate unbelief, in expecting another Messiah, so many centuries after the time expressly fixed for his coming, and after the actual and undeniable accomplishment of the other parts of the same prophecy. There are indeed difficulties in expounding the passage, which have occasioned different opinions among commentators; yet all agree in the
Holy Ghost, and in all respects perfected and exalted as the Messiah. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref . -Notes, Is . 51:4-8, υυ . 6,8. Jer . 23:5,6. Rom . 1: 17.3:21-26. 5:11. 1 Cor . 1:26-31, v . 30. 2 Cor . 5:18-21, v. 21. Heb . 7:26-28. 9:24-26. 10:11 -18.) -The marginal readings vary, in some respects, from the translation: but they do not appear materially to affect the meaning. -То finish transgression .] Marg . Perhaps, "to finish transgression," means the commission of that crime by the Jewish nation, when they adopted the counsel, and followed the example of their rulers, scribes, and priests; and demanded the crucifixion of Jesus, exclaiming, "His blood be upon us and upon our children, by which the measure of their guilt was filled up. The original word is not used by Moses for any of the legal sacrifices. ( Notes , Matt . 23: 34-39.)-To seal up , &c.] 'To fulfil the
great outlines. It is universally allowed, that 'prophecies of foregoing ages concerning the the seventy weeks here mentioned, mean "sev- 'Messias, and to confirm them, by making the enty weeks" of years; that is, four hundred and 'events to answer the prediction, as the setting ninety years. 'Seventy weeks contain ten Ju- 'of a seal confirms the authenticalness of any ' bilees ; ... and denote the bringing in of the most 'writing.' Lowth . -The word, rendered "proph
'complete Jubilee.' Lowth . Were it undoubted, that in this chronological prophecy, express reference was intended to the year of jubilee; it would subvert the author's opinion and arguments on that subject. ( Notes , Lev. 25:813,20-22.) But this is by no means certain.This period was "determined," or decreed. ( Notes , Luke 22:21-23, v. 22.
Acts 4:23-28, v . 28.) During this term, the Jews would enjoy the peculiar privileges of the people of JEHOVAH; and Jerusalem being rebuilded, would retain the name of "the holy city:" but about the expiration of these years, a sacrifice would be offered, making effectual atonement for sin, superseding the necessity of the repeated legal and sin-offerings: and "making an end of sins," (or ' the sin- offerings ,") "and making reconciliation," (or atonement ,) "for iniquity, and bringing in and bringing in everlasting righteousness" for the complete justification of every believer.
Then the time allotted for the law and the prophets would expire; the kingdom of God would be preached; and all the visions and prophecies of the scriptures, concerning Christ, would receive their accon
ecy," is prophet : ( marg .) and may be understood of Christ, the great Prophet of the church, being openly preached to mankind in this character. ( Notes , Deut . 18:15-19. Acts 3: 22,23.) - "The most holy," is literally "Holy of holies," "an expression which usually signifies 'the inner sanctuary; and it is very properly 'applied to the Messias, who was greater than 'the temple: ( Matt . 12:6.) because in him "dwelt the fulness of the Godhead," ( Col. 2:9.) 'whereupon he calls his body "the Temple." ( John 2:21.)' Lowth .
V. 25-27. The former verse gives a general view of the subject, but these enter more into particulars. The prophet was called on to and understand," that from the "going forth of the commandment to restore Jerusalem, unto the Messiah, would be seven weeks, and sixty-two weeks;" during the seven weeks the streets and walls of the city would be rebuilded, amidst much opposition, and in turbulent times. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref . t-x. - Notes, Neh. 3:-6:) After the expiration of the sixty-two weeks, (making sixty-nine in all,) accomplishment, or in the seventieth week, the Messiah would be cut off, by a violent death, but not for any for "rebuilding the city, and the walls and offence of his own. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref . y. 'streets of it," without one word about re
-Notes, Is . 53:4-12. 2 Cor . 5:18-21, v. 21. 1 Pet. 2:18-25, v. 24. 3:17,18. 1 John 2:1,2. 3:4-6, v. 5.) Then the people, of a prince who should come, would destroy both Jerusalem and the temple, and bear down all before them like a deluge of waters; for "unto the end" of that war "desolations" of the most dreadful kind 'were determined upon." ( Marg . Ref . z. a, b. -Notes, Is . 8:6–8. Matt . 22:1-10, v. 7. 1-10, v. 7. 24:6-8, 15-18,29-31. Mark 13:14—23.
Luke 21:2028.) But before this, the Messiah ("the Messenger of the covenant," who was to be "given as a Covenant to the people,") would "confirm the covenant with many for one week:" the last week of the seventy, whether ending at the death of Christ, as some compute, or extending to two or three years after that event, as others. For, by his own personal ministry, and afterwards by that of his apostles, multitudes of the Jews would accede to the new covenant mediated by him, and way would be made for the calling of the Gentiles also. ( Marg . Ref . c.- Notes , 2 Sam . 23:5. Is. 42:57.55:1-3.
Zech. 9:11. Mal . 3:1-4, v. 1. Heb . 8: 3-6, ν. 6,7-13, v. 10. 12:22-25, ν . 24. 13:20,21.) -And his sacrifice of himself, offered during this week, (perhaps towards the middle of it,)
building the temple; though in foretelling the 'second destruction of the city, that of the tem'ple is also mentioned.... But the third edict, 'that of the seventh of Artaxerxes, though it 'does not contain the very expressions of Dan'iel's prediction; yet it contains things, to
applicable.
'which these expressions are ... Sir Isaac Newton justly observes, that the 'dispersed Jews became a people and a
city,
'when they returned into a and that was in the seventh year of Arbody politic; taxerxes Longimanus; when Ezra, ... by the 'king's commission, erected magistrates all over 'the land, to govern the people according to 'the law of God and of the king: under Ezra 'they first became a polity or city by a govern'ment of their own. But there is another 'character, which is perhaps yet more decisive. 'According to the prediction, the edict ... must 'he only seven weeks before completing the 'building of the city: for one and the same 'event, viz. the appearance of the Messiah, 'which is placed only sixty-two weeks after 'the building, is placed only sixty-nine after 'the edict: which demonstrates, that the dis'tance between the edict and the building could 'be no more than seven weeks. ... Now the two
would virtually terminate the Mosaic dispen- 'first edicts were made long before; ... for in sation, and vacate the ceremonial law: so that 'the twentieth of Artaxerxes, (above eighty all other sacrifices and oblations would thence- 'years after the latest of those edicts,) it was forth be in every respect inefficacious. ( Marg . 'told Nehemiah, that the wall was broken Ref . d. See on Note , 24.) But the Jewish na- 'down, the gates burnt with fire, and the place tion in general, adhering to these sacrifices, 'of his father's sepulchreslay waste.' Maclaurin . and scornfully rejecting that of the Messiah; The date of the going forth of the decree to re
would, in consequence, see the idolatrous standards of hostile invaders, (which they justly counted "an abomination,") appear in the land and about Jerusalem; as a token of the desolations, which were about to overspread the whole city and country, and to pursue the devoted inhabitants; till all the vengeance, which had been determined and predicted, had been poured out upon them: and by the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, the sacrifices there offered would actually be caused to cease. ( Marg . and Marg. Ref . e, f.- Notes , 7:13,14.11:31. 12:11-13.
Matt . 24:15-18, v. 15.) -They were no longer "shadows of good things to come," instituted acts of worship, and 'means 'of grace.' Commemoration immediately succeeded to prefiguration ; Christian ordinances to Levitical; and from the time when Jesus expired on the cross, when "the veil of the temple was rent," the dispensation of the Messiah superseded that of Moses, the whole of which became as a cancelled bond. (Note, Col. 2:1315.) This seems a general outline of the events here foretold; and historical records sufficiently shew its general accomplishment, though some difficulty in subordinate matters may still remain.
There are four edicts, re'corded in scripture, to which these words, ("the going forth of the commandment, &c.;") 'may seem applicable; viz. the edict in the first 'year of Cyrus, ( Ezra 1:1.) in the second of Da'rius, ( Ezra 6:1. Hag . 1:1.) in the seventh of 'Artaxerxes, ( Ezra 7:7.) and in the twentieth. ( Neh . 1:2:) There are some things in the prediction which, when duly adverted to, give good ground for passing by the two first edicts.
And as to the two last, it has been well observed, ... that Christ's death happen'ed seventy weeks of solar years after one of 'them, and as many weeks of lunar years af'ter the other.... The two first edicts speak 'only about the rebuilding of the temple, ... 'without one word about rebuilding the city; 'whereas the prediction speaks about an edict VOL. IV.
store and rebuild Jerusalem, cannot therefore be reckoned from the time of Cyrus's decree, or that of Darius. It is generally fixed to the commission granted to Ezra by Artaxerxes in the seventh year of his reign; though some prefer the commission granted to Nehemiah by the same prince, in his twentieth year, and so reckon the years by the shorter computation. But as the lunar years were made to coincide with the solar by intercalatory months; in order to the due observance of the sacred festivals, (Note, Lev. 23:4.) this computation seems inadmissible, and solar years must be intended.
The former therefore seems much more satisfactory; and is only objected to, because Nehemiah's commission especially related to the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem; whereas Ezra's was of a more general nature. But the expressions here used may be understood figuratively, of resettling the whole Jewish constitution in church and state, which Ezra began and Nehemiah carried on or finished; as well as of rebuilding and fortifying the city.
The most eminent chronologers compute it to have been nearly four hundred and ninety years from the commission granted to Ezra, to the death of Christ; and some contend that it was so with the greatest exactness. -This period was divided into three subordinate ones.
During seven weeks, or forty-nine years, "the street and wall," or rampart, ( marg . ) were to be "builded in troublous times." This takes in the space that intervened between the granting of Ezra's commission, and the completion of Nehemiah's work, (as recorded in the last chapter of his book, and which contains the last history in the Old Testament,) or perhaps some time longer.
From the return of the Jews, in virtue of Cyrus's decree, till the days of Artaxerxes Longimanus, (though the temple had been rebuilded, and some parts of the city,) the affairs of the Jews continued in great disorder, both as to the state of the city, and the regulation of their civil and reli[681
gious concerns. From Ezra's commission, a decree granted for rebuilding Jerusalem; he
however, they began to assume a more promising aspect: and, notwithstanding the troubles excited by various enemies, matters were at he he expressly predicted, that in consequence, length brought into better order, both as to the temple and its worship, and as to the police and defence of the city; and the state was guarded with wholesome laws impartially executed. These things were accomplished in troublesome times, as the histories of Ezra and Nehemiah shew: but afterwards the nation became populous and powerful, and Jerusalem very strong and almost impregnable.
These were the events, that occurred in the first seven weeks: and from the expiration of that term to the beginning of the gospel by the ministry of John the Baptist, as some compute, or to that of our Lord, were four hundred and thirty-four years, or sixty-two weeks: and the last week, or seven years, is allotted to the ministry of John and of Christ himself, until his crucifixion: for he was to be cut off, after "the seven and the sixty-two weeks," or in the seventieth week: but as it is said, that "in the midst," or in the half part "of the week," he would cause the sacrifice to cease; some conclude, that the last week extended beyond his crucifixion, to the time when the gospel began to be preached to the Gentiles also.
We cannot, however, be absolutely certain in respect of minute calculations: but whether before, or just after, the death of Christ, every thing was done within this last week, or seven years, which was requisite for introducing the gospel-dispensation, for confirming the new covenant of grace, and for the calling of multitudes to partake of its blessings.
The legal sacrifices then lost their obligation and efficacy; the condemnation of the Jewish nation was denounced and ratified by Christ himself; and preparation was soon made for its execution, though it was not fully completed till about forty years afterwards: these intermediate years being like the time, which intervenes, between the condemnation and the execution of a malefactor. Those insurrections, howev-asm, alone renders men regardless of this sa
shewed that he would be put to death by a legal sentence; (for so the word implies;) and Jerusalem and the temple temple would be be desolated, and the nation of the Jews exposed to tremendous punishments, of which no termination is mentioned. Within that time, Jesus of Nazareth appeared: he answered in every respect to the description given of him by all the prophets: be was put to death as a deceiver; yet vast multitudes became his disciples, and Christianity gained a permanent establishment.
After a time, Jerusalem and the temple were destroyed; and the state of the Jews to this day is a striking comment on this prediction. How can it then be denied, that Daniel spake by divine inspiration? or that Jesus is the promised Messiah? Both these important points might be fully demonstrated by this one prophecy, even if it stood single: how much more, when it is only one star, so to speak, in a resplendent constellation; or one among a great number of predictions, all of which combine with united evidence to demonstrate the same grand truths!
er, soon began, which induced the Romans to make war upon the Jews. Then their armies under Vespasian and Titus, erected their idolatrous standards in the holy land, and_surrounded Jerusalem; the city was besieged, taken, and desolated, and left to be trodden down by the Gentiles; immense multitudes perished miserably; the temple was destroyed by the soldiers, contrary to the orders of the general; the remnant of the Jews were dispersed through all nations; and those judgments "were poured out" as an irresistible deluge on that people, which have continued to this day.
Thus the general interpretation is plain, notwithstanding some difficulties.
It is very use'ful to observe, that (supposing all these things 'to be real causes of some kind of obscurity; 'namely, of that obscurity which is impenetra'ble by superficial attention, but is consistent 'with convincing evidence upon due search,) 'the veil of apparent obscurity, which distin'guishes prophecy from history, is a proof of 'wise contrivance; ... seeing, what on first view 'increases the obscurity, on due inquiry, in'creases the evidence, and determines the 'meaning of the prediction.' Maclaurin .-Indeed inattention to the words of the prophecy itself has been the chief cause of those differences of opinion, which prevail in explaining it; it contains internal characters, which, carefully noted, fix the time of its accomplishment very satisfactorily.
It is, however, undeniable, that Daniel foretold, that the Messiah would come within less than five hundred years from
Messiah the prince. (25) Notes, Gen. 49:10. 1 Chr . 5:2. Ps . 2:1-6, υυ . 3,6. 110:1-4. Matt . 2: 1,2. 25:34-40, v. 34.27:37,38. Acts 5:29-31.— Not for himself . (26.) Marg . Note , John 14:29— 31.- 'The vulgar Latin render the words to this sense, "The people that deny him, shall 'be no longer his." 11:17. Heb. Lowth . (Note, Hos . 1:8-10.) - "He shall have no successor. Rab. Crooll. As of the risen Messiah's kingdom there shall be no end, so he has no successor.
PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS.
V. 1-5.
Those who were in ancient times most eminent in wisdom and piety, and favored with most frequent communications from heaven, paid the greatest reverence to the written word of God: and spiritual pride, or enthusi
cred standard, because of superior knowledge or supposed new revelations; for the genuine Spirit of prophecy would have a directly contrary effect.--The most exalted in rank, and they who are most occupied in important employments, are under greater obligations, and have more urgent need, than other men, to spare time for the study of the scriptures and prayer. The promises of God are intended to encourage our petitions for their accomplishment.
No personal ease or prosperity can render the believer regardless of the desolations, or indifferent about the prosperity, of Zion: and no constancy in stated exercises of devotion should prevent us from sometimes setting apart extraordinary seasons for prayer and fasting; that we may more deeply humble ourselves before God for our sins, and those of our people; and with more earnest and undivided attention, seek his blessings on our undertakings and on his cause.
Nor will the aged believer, if growing in grace, and not prevented by bodily infirmities, excuse himself from these self-denying and humiliating duties.. -Our addresses to the Lord our God should always be attended with humble confessions of our own unworthiness, and reverential awe of his holy, great, and terrible majesty; even whilst we plead before him, as "the God who keepeth covenant and mercy with his people." Love to him, shewn by obeying his commandments, is the proper evidence that we are interested in these blessings: nor can those who live in sin, and are conscious that they "have
committed iniquity, and done wickedly, and rebelled in departing from his precepts," take comfort from his covenant and mercy, till they repent and seek forgiveness, and have their hearts thus influenced to love and obey him. But, such as freely confess their sins, and labor
are "greatly beloved," in proportion to the degree in which they resemble him and seek his glory. The Lord gives skill and understanding, in answer to prayer, and they who well consider his words, shall receive instruction in every thing which concerns them. All bless
for language to express their sense of the ma-ings bestowed on sinners centre in Christ, and
lignity and multitude of their transgressions, give a hopeful evidence, that they are prepared for returning peace, and for a gracious answer to all their supplications.
V. 6-19.
No rank or order of men in the community is free from blame, in respect of the accumulation of national guilt: and if kings or princes refuse to hearken to the faithful ministers of God; they render the mercy of God, in thus warning them, an occasion of deeper guilt and condemnation. - In all our sufferings we should acknowledge the justice of the Lord, and that he is glorious even in our punishment; and that shame and confusion of face are our portion, as we have sinned away our mercies and exposed ourselves to his severe rebukes.
Yet we must not yield to despondency: for "to the LORD our God belong mercies, and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against him;" nay, his pardoning grace is even greater than all our crimes.
He will indeed execute his threatened judgments on guilty nations, and pour out his curse on impenitent sinners, according as it is written in the book of the law: he will thus establish his word, which he has spoken against the wicked, in bringing a great evil upon them, even far greater than befel Jerusalem: and so long as men neglect prayer, or do not pray "to be turned from their iniquities, and to be made to understand the truth" of God, he will "watch upon the evil to bring it upon them," being "righteous in all his works." Yet he is ever ready to deliver those,
who humble themselves before him and call upon him, and to exert that power which he so gloriously displayed, when he brought Israel out of Egypt.-When we humbly confess our
come to them through his all-sufficient atoning sacrifice: and the most eminent believers need frequently to be reminded to look off from forms, and types, and shadows, and outward privileges, unto the anointed Holy One, who was cut off by an ignominious excruciating death, "suffering once for sins, the Just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God." Thus he finished whatever the types prefigured, the prophets foretold, or the justice of God and the honor of the law required, in order to the pardoning and subduing of our transgressions, the atoning for our iniquity, our reconciliation to God, our everlasting righteousness and sanctification.
Here is the Foundation of our hope, our "Fountain opened for sin and uncleanness," our Way of access to the throne of grace, and our entrance into heaven. This seals the sum of prophecy, and confirms the covenant with many: and, whilst we rejoice in the blessings of salvation, we should remember the groans which the purchase of them cost our Redeemer.
But "how can they escape, who neglect so great salvation?" The desolations of Jerusalem, and the slaughter or long continued dispersion of the Jews, by "the overspreading of abomination;" and the pouring out of divine vengeance on the murderers of Christ, not only evince the truth of the scriptures, but loudly warn others not to copy so fatal an example.
When the Lord commands, the city will be builded, and its prosperity secured, even in turbulent times; and at his word desolations rush in like a flood, from which no outward privileges can defend us: but the streets and walls of the true Jerusalem, which has been so long building in troublesome times, will at length be completed
sins, and plead his promises, and beseech him, by the ruin of every adversary; and "peace will for "the honor of his name" and the credit of be within her walls, and prosperity within her his cause, to help and deliver us, that Jerusa-palaces." Let us pray for this "peace of Jelem may not become a reproach, we may con- rusalem, for they shall prosper that love her." fidently expect in due time an answer of peace:
and we never pray more acceptably, than when we are satisfied about our own concerns, and earnestly entreat our God and Father to "cause his face to shine on his sanctuary, for the sake" of Christ "the LORD our righteousness;" and when we "present our supplications before him, not for our righteousnesses, but for his great mercies."
V. 20-27.
NOTES.