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; we have sinned, we have done wickedly.

DANIEL 9:15KJV
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Daniel 9:15 (KJV)

What does Daniel 9:15 mean?

Daniel 9:15 is Daniel’s prayer to God, recalling how God powerfully rescued the Israelites from Egypt and became famous for it, and then confessing that the people have sinned and acted wickedly. Daniel is appealing to God’s past acts of deliverance as he admits the nation’s guilt.

Daniel is speaking directly to God during a time of exile, praying on behalf of the Jewish people. He remembers God’s “mighty hand” in bringing Israel out of Egypt (a key event in their history) and openly admits that the people have failed God since then. This verse is part of Daniel’s larger prayer of confession and plea for mercy, showing both respect for God’s power and honesty about the nation’s wrongdoing.

The Hebrew behind Daniel 9:15

  • “Lord” (אֲדֹנָי, Adonai, H136): This word emphasizes God’s authority and sovereignty, which fits Daniel’s humble approach in prayer.
  • “God” (אֱלֹהִים, Elohim, H430): This is a general term for God, often highlighting His power as Creator and ruler over all.
  • “Mighty” (חָזָק, chazaq, H2389) and “hand” (יָד, yad, H3027): Together, these words stress the strength and active intervention of God in history, not just a passive presence.
  • “Renown” (שֵׁם, shem, H8034): This word means “name” or “reputation.” Daniel points out that God’s actions in Egypt made His name famous, which is why Daniel appeals to God’s reputation now.
  • “Sinned” (חָטָא, chata’, H2398) and “done wickedly” (רָשַׁע, rasha’, H7561): These words show Daniel’s clear confession, using strong terms for moral failure and rebellion.

Why Daniel 9:15 matters

  • Daniel 9:15 reminds readers that confession in prayer can be honest and direct, acknowledging both God’s greatness and human failure.
  • The verse connects the current crisis (exile) to Israel’s history, showing that God’s past faithfulness is the basis for hope and appeal in the present.
  • By mentioning God’s “renown,” Daniel highlights that God’s reputation among nations is important in biblical prayers, not just personal or national needs.

Where else these words appear

“wickedly” Hebrew H7561 · used in 34 verses

  • Exodus 22:9 For all manner of trespass, whether it be for ox, for ass, for sheep, for raiment, or for any manner of lost thing, which another challengeth to be his, the cause of both parties shall come before the judges; and whom the judges shall condemn, he shall pay double unto his neighbour.
  • Job 9:29 If I be wicked, why then labour I in vain?
  • Psalms 37:33 The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.

“mighty” Hebrew H2389 · used in 54 verses

  • Exodus 3:19 And I am sure that the king of Egypt will not let you go, no, not by a mighty hand.
  • Deuteronomy 26:8 And the LORD brought us forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand, and with an outstretched arm, and with great terribleness, and with signs, and with wonders:
  • Proverbs 23:11 For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.