“Quam ob rem, rex, consilium meum placeat tibi, et peccata tua eleemosynis redime, et iniquitates tuas misericordiis pauperum : forsitan ignoscet delictis tuis.”
“This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the most High, which is come upon my lord the king:”
“This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree that the Most High has issued against my lord the king:”
“this is the interpretation, O king, and it is the decree of the Most High, which has come on my lord the king:”
“this is the interpretation, O king, and it is the decree of the Most High, which is come upon my lord the king:”
Alms. Chaldean, “justice,” is often taken in this sense. (Syr. &c.; 2 Corinthians ix. 9.; Calmet) — The prediction was conditional, and therefore Daniel exhorts the king to strive to obtain pardon by the powerful remedy of alms-deeds; as he did, after enduring some punishment. (Worthington) — Yet this is very doubtful, ver. 31.
Verses 19-27 Daniel was struck with amazement and terror at so heavy a judgment coming upon so great a prince, and gives advice with tenderness and respect. It is necessary, in repentance, that we not only cease to do evil, but learn to do good. Though it might not wholly prevent the judgment, yet the trouble may be longer before it comes, or shorter when it does come. And everlasting misery will be escaped by all who repent and turn to God.