What is the significance of being called "highly esteemed" in Daniel 10:11? Text and Immediate Context “He said to me, ‘Daniel, you who are highly esteemed, understand the words that I speak to you and stand up, for I have now been sent to you.’ ” (Daniel 10:11). The angel speaks after Daniel’s three-week fast (10:2–3). The phrase identifies Daniel before any instruction is delivered, making his standing with God the interpretive key for the entire vision that follows. Repetition within Daniel • 9:23—“you are highly esteemed” • 10:11—“you who are highly esteemed” • 10:19—“O man highly esteemed” The triple use forms an inclusio around Daniel’s final visions, underscoring that the forthcoming revelation is granted because of Daniel’s cherished status with God. Grounds of Esteem: Character and Covenant Faithfulness 1. Persistent prayer (6:10; 9:3, 20–23). 2. Humility and repentance on behalf of the nation (9:4–19). 3. Separation from defilement (1:8). 4. Steadfast confession of Yahweh before pagan courts (2:28; 6:22). The esteem is covenantal grace responding to faith-formed obedience (Genesis 15:6; Hebrews 11:33). Angelic Perspective and Spiritual Warfare Daniel 10 reveals an unseen conflict (“the prince of the kingdom of Persia… Michael,” vv. 13, 21). Being “highly esteemed” marks Daniel as a strategic participant in that warfare; his prayers move angels to action. Divine esteem is thus not passive sentiment but operational endorsement in redemptive history. Parallels in Scripture • Mary: “Greetings, you who are highly favored” (Luke 1:28). • John: “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23). • Abraham: “friend of God” (James 2:23). These parallels affirm that God’s redemptive work often flows through those He calls “beloved” or “favored,” culminating in the Beloved Son (Matthew 3:17). Historical Credibility of Daniel Archaeological finds—e.g., the Babylonian Chronicle BM 21946 confirming Nebuchadnezzar’s siege of Jerusalem (597 BC), and the Nabonidus Cylinders corroborating Belshazzar’s existence—demonstrate Daniel’s accuracy, reinforcing the weight of the angelic commendation given to a real historical figure. Theological Implications 1. Divine favor stems from grace yet is responsive to faithfulness. 2. Esteem results in revelation; God entrusts deeper truths to those devoted to Him (Psalm 25:14). 3. Being “highly esteemed” is a foretaste of New-Covenant status: every believer in Christ is “accepted in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:6). Practical Application for Believers Prayerful perseverance, holiness, and humble confession position believers to experience God’s delight. While justification is by faith alone (Romans 5:1), intimacy and entrusted ministry are fostered by obedience (John 14:23). Daniel models a life that draws heaven’s commendation amidst a hostile culture. Eschatological Echoes Daniel’s status foreshadows the saints’ vindication in the last days (12:3). As Daniel received strength through a touch (10:18–19), so resurrected believers will hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). Summary of Significance “Highly esteemed” in Daniel 10:11 designates Daniel as a man treasured by God, whose faithful character and intercession align with God’s redemptive purposes, invite angelic revelation, and exemplify the covenant principle that those who honor the Lord are honored by Him (1 Samuel 2:30). The phrase assures readers that devoted allegiance to Yahweh is noticed in the courts of heaven and advances His salvific plan. |
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