Daniel 9:19Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

O Lord, hear me, cleanse me, and do not let me be brought to disgrace for the sake of my God. The sequence of requests is striking; the Prophet begins by imploring God to listen to his supplication and not to dismiss his appeal. After being heard, he asks for God’s mercy, and once mercy is granted, he desires that it be met with approval so that the requests may be fulfilled. He adds, "Do not delay," meaning that the fulfillment of the plea should not be deferred but granted promptly. The conclusion of the prayer exemplifies Daniel’s profound humility. "For Thy sake, my God," the Prophet declares. I do not deserve this kindness; nevertheless, I ask for it. Your name is revered in Your city and among Your people. Thus, the Prophet earnestly prayed for his fellow human beings, pleading with God not to postpone His response, and indeed, he received an answer promptly, for he states: