Daniel 9:1
Darius <01867> [A.M. 3466. B.C. 538. Darius.]
Ahasuerus <0325> [Ahasuerus.]
This was the Astyages of the heathen historians; as we learn from Tobit 14:15, where the taking of Nineveh is ascribed to Nebuchadnezzar and Assuerus, who were the same with Nabopolassar and Astyages.
king <04427> [which. or, in which he, etc.]
Daniel 1:4
young men <03206> [Children.]
The word {yeladim,} rendered children, is frequently used for lads, or young men. (see Ge 21:8, 14-16,) [neaniskous,] as the LXX. render; and Daniel must have been at this time at least seventeen or eighteen years of age.
physical defect <03971> [in whom.]
well versed <07919> [and skilful.]
Rather, as Houbigant renders, "apt to understand wisdom, to acquire knowledge, and to attain science;" for it was not a knowledge of the sciences, but merely a capacity to learn them, that was required.
capable <03581> [ability.]
