John Chrysostom
Even after addressing the transgressions committed by the Jews and outlining the consequences they faced, Daniel does not consider them automatically entitled to forgiveness. Observe the integrity of this devoted servant! He illustrates that the Jews had not endured a punishment proportionate to their offenses, nor had they compensated for their wrongdoings through their sufferings.
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Ultimately, he turns to God’s mercy and compassion, proclaiming, “And now, O Lord our God, who brought Thy people out of the land of Egypt by a mighty hand, and hast revealed Thy glory as this day, we have sinned, we have acted wickedly.” Just as You rescued them, not due to their righteousness, but because You looked upon their suffering and heard their cries, so may You rescue us from our current afflictions, grounded solely in Your compassion; we possess no other claim to salvation.