Introduction
Upon the conclusion of Daniel’s prayer, the Archangel Gabriel (whom Daniel had previously met
in Chapter 8) is immediately dispatched with the answer. Gabriel’s arrival coincides with the time of the
evening sacrifice (vs. 21). When the Jews were still living in their beloved homeland, two sacrifices would
be offered to God every day; one in the morning and one in the evening. The time of the evening
sacrifice came at 3 p.m. each day, which was precisely the time of day that Christ would later yield up His
spirit upon the cross (Matt. 27:50). This is no coincidence, considering that Jesus was the Lamb of God,
given for the sins of the world (John 1:29). He was the final evening sacrifice, the last one to ever be
required. It is fitting therefore, when Gabriel brings the revelation of the seventy weeks foretelling the
suffering of the coming Messiah, that he arrives at precisely the time of the evening sacrifice! Our God is
an Awesome God! He pays careful attention to every detail.