1. These things happened during the first year Darius son of Xerxes was king. He was a descendant of the Medes.
2. During Darius’ first year as king, I, Daniel, was reading the Scriptures. In them I saw what the Lord told Jeremiah. He said Jerusalem would be an empty desert for 70 years.
3. Then I turned to the Lord God. I prayed to him and asked him for help. I did not eat any food. To show how sad I was I put on rough cloth and sat in ashes.
4. I prayed to the Lord my God. I told him about all of my sins. I said, “Lord, you are a great God. You cause fear and wonder. You keep your agreement of love with all who love you and obey your commands.
5. “But we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and turned against you. We have not obeyed your commands and laws.