Daniel 9:4
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;
Daniel 9:4 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the speaker is expressing their humility and reverence towards God as they confess their sins and seek forgiveness. By addressing the Lord as the great and dreadful God, the speaker acknowledges God's power and holiness, recognizing Him as the ultimate authority and source of mercy. The verse highlights the importance of keeping God's covenant and following His commandments as a demonstration of love and devotion. This act of prayer and confession illustrates the belief in the concept of divine mercy and forgiveness for those who show genuine repentance and strive to lead a righteous life. It serves as a reminder of the need for humility, obedience, and faithfulness in maintaining a relationship with God. As believers reflect on this verse, they are encouraged to seek forgiveness through confession, uphold their commitment to God's covenant, and demonstrate their love through obedience to His commandments.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the importance of confession and obedience in the relationship between God and His people. The act of prayer and confession is seen as a way for individuals to acknowledge their sins and seek forgiveness from God. The use of the words "great and dreadful God" emphasizes the awe and reverence that believers should have for God's power and authority. Despite His greatness, God is also described as keeping His covenant and showing mercy to those who love Him and keep His commandments. This highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience in maintaining a close relationship with God. The theological implications of this verse remind believers of the need to humble themselves before God, confess their sins, and strive to live according to His will.
Daniel 9:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
And I prayed unto Jehovah my God, and made confession, and said, Oh, Lord, the great and dreadful God, who keepeth covenant and lovingkindness with them that love him and keep his commandments,
World English Bible
I prayed to Yahweh my God, and made confession, and said, Oh, Lord, the great and dreadful God, who keeps covenant and loving kindness with those who love him and keep his commandments,
Douay-Rheims
And I prayed to the Lord, my God, and I made my confession, and said: I beseech thee, O Lord God, great and terrible, who keepest the covenant, and mercy to them that love thee, and keep thy commandments.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And I prayed vnto the Lord my God, and made my confession, saying, Oh Lord God, which art great and fearefull, and keepest couenant and mercy toward them which loue thee, and toward them that keepe thy commandements,