Daniel 10

Daniel 10 opens with a vision that Daniel receives in the third year of King Cyrus of Persia. The chapter describes a profound encounter with a heavenly being who brings Daniel insight into the future of his people. Daniel, now an elderly man, has been fasting and mourning for three weeks, seeking understanding and guidance. The angelic messenger not only offers him a glimpse of cosmic conflicts but also provides encouragement in the face of the difficult times ahead for Israel.

Daniel 10:1-3 (NKJV)
1 In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a message was revealed to Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar. The message was true, but the appointed time was long; and he understood the message, and had understanding of the vision.
2 In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks.
3 I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.

Daniel receives a vision in the third year of King Cyrus, highlighting a troubling revelation with events that would take place far into the future. He dedicates himself to a period of fasting and mourning, reflecting a deep spiritual commitment to seeking divine clarity. By abstaining from food and comforts, Daniel is fully focused on preparing himself spiritually to understand and receive God’s message.

Daniel 10:4-6 (NKJV)
4 Now on the twenty-fourth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, that is, the Tigris,
5 I lifted my eyes and looked, and behold, a certain man clothed in linen, whose waist was girded with gold of Uphaz.
6 His body was like beryl, his face like the appearance of lightning, his eyes like torches of fire, his arms and feet like burnished bronze in color, and the sound of his words like the voice of a multitude.

While standing by the Tigris River, Daniel encounters a striking heavenly figure clothed in linen, with a dazzling appearance that reflects purity, power, and authority. The description of the angel’s appearance — with eyes like fire and a voice like a multitude — emphasizes the supernatural and awe-inspiring nature of this being, filling Daniel with reverence and anticipation for the message that follows.

Daniel 10:7-9 (NKJV)
7 And I, Daniel, alone saw the vision, for the men who were with me did not see the vision; but a great terror fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves.
8 Therefore I was left alone when I saw this great vision, and no strength remained in me; for my vigor was turned to frailty in me, and I retained no strength.
9 Yet I heard the sound of his words; and while I heard the sound of his words I was in a deep sleep on my face, with my face to the ground.

Daniel is the only one who sees the vision, though the presence of the heavenly being instills fear in those around him, causing them to flee. Overwhelmed by the divine presence, Daniel loses all strength and collapses, experiencing a deep reverence and awe that leaves him physically weakened. His physical reaction underscores the intense spiritual power of the moment and his unworthiness before the messenger.

Daniel 10:10-12 (NKJV)
10 Suddenly, a hand touched me, which made me tremble on my knees and on the palms of my hands.
11 And he said to me, “O Daniel, man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright, for I have now been sent to you.” While he was speaking this word to me, I stood trembling.
12 Then he said to me, “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words.

The angelic being comforts Daniel with a touch and addresses him as “greatly beloved,” a term of endearment affirming his favor with God. The messenger reassures Daniel that his prayers and humble pursuit of understanding have been heard since the start of his fast. This declaration underscores the immediacy of God’s response to sincere prayers, even though Daniel’s answer is delayed by spiritual resistance.

Daniel 10:13-14 (NKJV)
13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia.
14 Now I have come to make you understand what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision refers to many days yet to come.

The angel explains the delay in his arrival, revealing a spiritual battle with the “prince of Persia,” a representation of opposition in the spiritual realm. The archangel Michael intervened to help, allowing the messenger to reach Daniel. This account offers a glimpse into the cosmic struggle between angelic and demonic forces influencing earthly kingdoms, emphasizing that the revelation Daniel receives has significant implications for Israel’s future.

Daniel 10:15-17 (NKJV)
15 When he had spoken such words to me, I turned my face toward the ground and became speechless.
16 And suddenly, one having the likeness of the sons of men touched my lips; then I opened my mouth and spoke, saying to him who stood before me, “My lord, because of the vision my sorrows have overwhelmed me, and I have retained no strength.
17 For how can this servant of my lord talk with you, my lord? As for me, no strength remains in me now, nor is any breath left in me.”

Daniel, overwhelmed by the angel’s message, is initially unable to speak, indicating the profound impact of this divine encounter. After being touched on the lips, he is able to voice his sorrow and weakness, acknowledging his limitations in the face of such a powerful revelation. His humility and vulnerability underscore his reverence for God and his sense of awe at the weight of the message he is receiving.

Daniel 10:18-19 (NKJV)
18 Then again, the one having the likeness of a man touched me and strengthened me.
19 And he said, “O man greatly beloved, fear not! Peace be to you; be strong, yes, be strong!” So when he spoke to me I was strengthened, and said, “Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me.”

The angelic messenger strengthens Daniel with comforting words, encouraging him not to fear and offering peace and strength. Daniel’s immediate revival after hearing these words reflects the transformative power of divine reassurance and encouragement, enabling him to receive the revelation with newfound courage. This encounter illustrates God’s compassion, as He provides Daniel with the strength needed to bear the vision.

Daniel 10:20-21 (NKJV)
20 Then he said, “Do you know why I have come to you? And now I must return to fight with the prince of Persia; and when I have gone forth, indeed the prince of Greece will come.
21 But I will tell you what is noted in the Scripture of Truth. (No one upholds me against these, except Michael your prince.)

The angel reveals his ongoing mission, hinting at future conflicts as he returns to engage with the “prince of Persia” and anticipates the emergence of the “prince of Greece.” This indicates upcoming challenges for Israel amidst shifting political powers. The angel mentions the “Scripture of Truth,” suggesting that these events are part of God’s ordained plan. Michael’s supportive role reflects God’s commitment to protect His people amidst the cosmic and earthly struggles to come.