What is the context?
Daniel recalls the God who brought His people out of Egypt and made His name known. He asks Him to turn His anger from Jerusalem and look with favor on the desolate sanctuary.
He states the ground of the appeal plainly: the people are not presenting their petitions because of their righteous acts, but because of God’s great compassion. Confession leads to a plea for forgiveness and action.
The city and the people bear God’s name. Daniel’s urgent request is therefore for God’s own sake as well as for their relief. Their need is great, but the mercy and honor of God give the prayer its basis.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Henry and Wesley read the appeal for the Lord’s sake through the Messiah. Cambridge emphasizes God’s own name and honor, consistent with the repeated appeal in verse 19. These readings agree that the plea rests on God rather than the people’s merit.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Ephesians 2:4–10 describes God as rich in mercy and salvation as His gift through faith. He makes people alive with Christ and creates them for good works.
The chapter then shows Jews and Gentiles brought together through the cross, especially verses 14–22. They have access to the Father and become His household and dwelling place. The wider theme is mercy creating a restored people: the God to whom Daniel appeals makes His grace known through Christ and brings people near to Himself.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.