Daniel 9:24
Seuentie weekes are determined vpon thy people, and vpon thy holy citie, to finish the transgression, and to make an ende of sinnes, and to make reconciliation for iniquitie, and to bring in euerlasting righteousnes, and to seale vp the vision and prophecie, and to anoynt the most Holy. Daniel 9:24 (KJV)
To understand this verse more fully, let us break it down point by point.
Seventy Weeks: The prophecy mentions a period of “seventy weeks.” In biblical prophecy a week is commonly interpreted as a unit of seven years, so seventy weeks represent a total of 490 years.
Determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city: The declaration is directed specifically to Daniel’s people, the Israelites, and to their holy city, Jerusalem.
Finish the transgression, make an end of sins, and make reconciliation for iniquity: These phrases describe the purpose of the seventy weeks as the resolution of sin and transgression, culminating in reconciliation for iniquity.
Bring in everlasting righteousness: The prophecy points to the establishment of everlasting righteousness, indicating a future time when righteousness and justice will prevail forever.
Seal up the vision and prophecy: This phrase indicates that the revelation given to Daniel will be fulfilled and brought to completion within the seventy‑week period.
Anoint the most Holy: This phrase has several interpretations. It may refer to the anointing of the Holy of Holies in the temple, symbolizing the restoration of worship and the renewed covenant relationship between God and His people. It may also allude to the anointing of a future leader, often identified as the Messiah, who is called the “Holy One.”
The broader context of Daniel 9:24‑27 includes further references to the Messiah, although the explicit mention of the Messiah occurs in verse 25. The passage therefore anticipates a future leader through whom reconciliation will be achieved and God’s redemptive plan fulfilled.
It is important to note that different interpretations of this verse exist among biblical scholars. Readers are encouraged to study the broader context of the Book of Daniel and to consider the various scholarly perspectives in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of this powerful prophecy.
