That they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret; that Daniel and his fellows should not perish with the rest of the wise [men] of Babylon.
Ver. 18. That they would desire mercies of the God of heaven.] All God's children can pray. Son 5:8 Those daughters of Jerusalem, though not so fully acquainted with Christ, yet are requested to pray for the Church. But these three were men of singular abilities, no doubt, and were themselves deeply concerned.
Concerning this secret.] In case of secrets and intricacies or riddles of providence, prayer is most seasonable; as being Tephillah, the usual Hebrew word for prayer, a repair to the Lord for inquiry, or for his sentence. Gen 25:22-23