In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia
This phrase situates the events in the historical context of the Persian Empire, specifically during the reign of Cyrus the Great, who conquered Babylon in 539 BC. The third year of his reign would be around 536 BC. Cyrus is noted for his decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:1-4), fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 44:28. This period marks a significant transition for the Jewish people from exile to restoration.

a message was revealed to Daniel
Daniel, a Jewish exile in Babylon, is the recipient of divine revelation. Throughout the book, Daniel is portrayed as a prophet and a man of prayer, receiving visions and messages from God. This revelation underscores his role as a mediator of God's word to His people, similar to other prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah.

who was called Belteshazzar
Belteshazzar is the Babylonian name given to Daniel, reflecting the practice of renaming captives to assimilate them into Babylonian culture (Daniel 1:7). This name, possibly meaning "Bel protect the king," indicates the influence of Babylonian religion and culture. Despite this, Daniel remains faithful to the God of Israel, maintaining his identity and integrity.

The message was true
The truth of the message emphasizes its divine origin and reliability. In biblical terms, truth is often associated with God's character and His word (John 17:17). This assurance of truth would have been crucial for the exiled Jewish community seeking hope and guidance.

and it concerned a great conflict
The "great conflict" likely refers to spiritual and earthly battles, including the struggles of God's people against oppressive powers. This theme of conflict is prevalent in apocalyptic literature, such as in Daniel 7-12 and Revelation, where spiritual warfare and the ultimate victory of God's kingdom are depicted.

And the understanding of the message was given to him in a vision
Visions are a common means of divine communication in the Bible, providing insight into God's plans and purposes. Daniel's ability to understand the vision highlights his prophetic gift and God's favor upon him. This understanding is crucial for interpreting the events and encouraging the faithful, similar to how Joseph and other prophets received and interpreted dreams and visions.

In those days
This phrase sets the historical context for the events described. "Those days" refers to a specific period during the reign of Cyrus, king of Persia, after the Jewish exiles had begun returning to Jerusalem. This was a time of significant transition and uncertainty for the Jewish people, as they were re-establishing their community and religious practices in their homeland. The phrase indicates a period of reflection and spiritual significance.

I, Daniel
Daniel, the author and central figure of the book, is a Jewish exile who rose to prominence in the Babylonian and Persian empires. Known for his wisdom and prophetic visions, Daniel's experiences and writings have been a source of encouragement and instruction for believers. His personal involvement in the narrative underscores the authenticity and firsthand nature of the account.

was mourning
Mourning in the biblical context often involved fasting, prayer, and wearing sackcloth and ashes. It was a time of deep emotional and spiritual reflection. Daniel's mourning could be related to the challenges faced by the returning exiles, the delay in the rebuilding of the temple, or a response to a vision or revelation he received. Mourning was a common practice among the Israelites during times of distress or repentance.

for three full weeks
The duration of Daniel's mourning, three full weeks, signifies a period of complete dedication to seeking God. The number three often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection in the Bible. This extended period of mourning suggests the seriousness of Daniel's concerns and his commitment to interceding for his people. It also sets the stage for the subsequent vision and revelation he receives, highlighting the importance of perseverance in prayer and fasting.

I ate no rich food
Daniel's decision to abstain from rich food reflects a period of mourning and fasting. In the ancient Near Eastern context, fasting was a common practice during times of distress or when seeking divine intervention. Rich foods, often associated with luxury and celebration, were avoided to focus on spiritual matters. This practice aligns with other biblical examples of fasting, such as in Esther 4:16 and Jonah 3:5-9, where fasting is used to seek God's favor or guidance.

no meat or wine entered my mouth
The abstention from meat and wine further emphasizes Daniel's commitment to a period of self-denial and spiritual focus. Meat and wine were staples in royal diets and symbolized abundance and pleasure. By refraining from these, Daniel demonstrates humility and a desire to purify himself before God. This mirrors the Nazarite vow in Numbers 6:1-4, where individuals abstain from wine and other products to dedicate themselves to the Lord.

and I did not anoint myself with oil
Anointing with oil was a common practice in ancient cultures for personal grooming and as a sign of joy or celebration. By not anointing himself, Daniel is expressing his mourning and distress. This act of self-denial is similar to the mourning practices described in 2 Samuel 14:2, where abstaining from oil is a sign of grief. It underscores Daniel's earnestness in seeking God's revelation and intervention.

until the three weeks were completed
The specific duration of three weeks indicates a deliberate and sustained period of fasting and prayer. This timeframe is significant as it shows Daniel's perseverance and dedication in seeking understanding from God. The number three often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection in the Bible, as seen in the resurrection of Jesus on the third day (Matthew 16:21). Daniel's three-week fast sets the stage for the profound vision and message he receives, highlighting the importance of persistence in prayer and devotion.

On the twenty-fourth day of the first month
The first month in the Hebrew calendar is Nisan, which corresponds to March-April in the Gregorian calendar. This timing is significant as it follows the Passover, a key Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt. The 24th day suggests that Daniel had been in a period of mourning and fasting, as mentioned earlier in the chapter, which aligns with the traditional period of Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. This context highlights Daniel's devotion and the spiritual preparation for the vision he is about to receive.

as I was standing on the bank of the great river
The mention of standing on the bank indicates a position of waiting or expectation. Rivers in biblical times were often places of significant events and revelations. The imagery of standing by a river can symbolize a threshold or a place of transition, suggesting that Daniel is on the verge of receiving a divine message. This setting also emphasizes the solemnity and importance of the vision.

the Tigris
The Tigris River is one of the two major rivers in Mesopotamia, the other being the Euphrates. This region, known as the cradle of civilization, was a center of ancient empires, including Babylon and Persia, where Daniel was in exile. The Tigris is mentioned in Genesis as one of the rivers flowing from Eden, linking it to the biblical narrative of creation. Its mention here situates Daniel's vision within a historical and geographical context that underscores the continuity of God's plan from creation through the history of Israel. The Tigris also represents the vastness and power of the empires of the time, against which God's sovereignty is demonstrated through the visions given to Daniel.

I lifted up my eyes
This phrase indicates a moment of revelation or vision, a common occurrence in prophetic literature. It suggests a transition from the mundane to the divine, as seen in other biblical accounts such as Ezekiel 1:1 and Revelation 4:1, where prophets receive visions after looking up.

and behold, there was a certain man
The "certain man" is often interpreted as a heavenly being, possibly an angel or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, known as a Christophany. This aligns with similar descriptions in Ezekiel 9:2 and Revelation 1:13, where divine messengers appear in human form.

dressed in linen
Linen garments are typically associated with purity and holiness, often worn by priests (Exodus 28:39-42) and angels (Ezekiel 9:2). This attire signifies the sacred nature of the being and the message he brings.

with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist
The belt of fine gold signifies wealth, authority, and divine majesty. Uphaz is a location mentioned in Jeremiah 10:9, known for its high-quality gold. This imagery parallels the description of the glorified Christ in Revelation 1:13, emphasizing the divine authority and splendor of the figure Daniel sees.

His body was like beryl
Beryl is a precious stone, often associated with beauty and value. In biblical times, beryl was known for its clarity and brilliance, symbolizing purity and divine glory. This description suggests a heavenly or angelic being, reflecting the majesty and splendor of God's messengers. Beryl is also mentioned in the description of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:20, indicating its significance in divine visions.

His face like the brilliance of lightning
Lightning is a powerful and awe-inspiring natural phenomenon, often used in the Bible to represent God's power and presence (Exodus 19:16). The brilliance of lightning suggests overwhelming radiance and authority, emphasizing the divine nature of the figure Daniel sees. This imagery is reminiscent of the transfiguration of Jesus, where His face shone like the sun (Matthew 17:2).

His eyes like flaming torches
Flaming torches convey intensity and penetrating insight, symbolizing the ability to see through darkness and deception. This imagery is used in Revelation 1:14 to describe the eyes of Christ, indicating judgment and omniscience. The fiery eyes suggest a being of immense power and discernment, capable of perceiving the truth in all things.

His arms and legs like the gleam of polished bronze
Polished bronze is strong and enduring, often associated with judgment and strength. In the ancient Near East, bronze was used for weapons and armor, symbolizing might and resilience. This description parallels the vision of Christ in Revelation 1:15, where His feet are like burnished bronze, indicating His authority and power to judge and rule.

And his voice like the sound of a multitude
A voice like a multitude suggests overwhelming authority and command, echoing the voice of God described in Ezekiel 43:2. This imagery conveys the idea of a voice that is both majestic and terrifying, capable of commanding attention and obedience. It reflects the divine authority of the figure, reminiscent of the voice of Jesus in Revelation 1:15, which is described as the sound of many waters.

Only I, Daniel, saw the vision;
Daniel, a prophet and a man of high esteem, is the sole recipient of this divine vision. This exclusivity highlights the personal nature of God's revelation to His chosen servants. Throughout the Bible, God often reveals His plans to individuals rather than groups, as seen with Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 3) and Paul on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). Daniel's unique experience underscores his role as a mediator of God's messages to His people.

the men with me did not see it,
This phrase indicates a common biblical theme where spiritual realities are perceived by some but hidden from others. Similar instances occur in 2 Kings 6:17, where Elisha's servant's eyes are opened to see the heavenly army, and in Acts 9:7, where Paul's companions hear a voice but see no one. This selective revelation emphasizes the spiritual discernment granted to those chosen by God.

but a great terror fell upon them,
The presence of divine or angelic beings often induces fear, as seen in other biblical accounts like the shepherds' reaction to the angelic announcement of Jesus' birth (Luke 2:9). This terror reflects the overwhelming holiness and power of God's presence, which can be unsettling to those unprepared or unchosen to receive it. It also serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of God's revelations.

and they ran and hid themselves.
The reaction of Daniel's companions mirrors the human instinct to hide from the divine, as seen in Genesis 3:8 when Adam and Eve hide from God after sinning. This response highlights the natural human fear of the divine and the unknown. It also contrasts with Daniel's steadfastness and readiness to receive God's message, illustrating the difference between those called to prophetic ministry and those who are not.

So I was left alone
Daniel finds himself isolated, which is significant in biblical narratives where solitude often precedes divine encounters or revelations. This mirrors other biblical figures like Moses and Elijah, who also experienced profound moments with God when alone. The isolation emphasizes the personal nature of the vision and the unique calling of Daniel as a prophet.

gazing at this great vision
The vision Daniel sees is overwhelming in its grandeur, suggesting a divine or heavenly origin. In biblical terms, visions often convey messages from God, and their greatness underscores the importance of the revelation. This aligns with other prophetic visions in the Bible, such as those in Ezekiel and Revelation, which also depict awe-inspiring scenes.

No strength remained in me
The physical weakness Daniel experiences is a common reaction to divine encounters, as seen with other prophets like Isaiah and John. This indicates the overwhelming power and holiness of the vision, which human frailty cannot withstand. It highlights the contrast between divine strength and human weakness.

my face grew deathly pale
This phrase suggests fear and awe, common responses to the divine presence. In the ancient Near Eastern context, paleness often symbolized fear or impending doom. This reaction is consistent with other biblical accounts where individuals encounter angels or divine beings, such as the shepherds in Luke 2.

and I was powerless
Daniel's powerlessness underscores the humbling effect of encountering the divine. It reflects the biblical theme of human dependence on God's strength. This moment of weakness is a precursor to receiving divine strength, as seen in other scriptures where God empowers those He calls, such as Gideon and Paul.

I heard the sound of his words
This phrase indicates a direct encounter with a divine or angelic being, often associated with receiving a revelation or message from God. In the context of Daniel 10, the "his" refers to a heavenly messenger, possibly Gabriel, who is delivering a message to Daniel. The sound of the words suggests authority and power, reminiscent of other biblical instances where God's voice is described as overwhelming, such as in Exodus 19:19 and Revelation 1:15. The auditory experience signifies the importance and divine origin of the message.

and as I listened
Daniel's attentive listening underscores his role as a prophet and servant of God, emphasizing the importance of being receptive to divine communication. This act of listening is a common theme in Scripture, where hearing God's word is crucial for understanding and obedience (Romans 10:17). It also reflects Daniel's humility and readiness to receive God's guidance, a characteristic seen throughout his life and ministry.

I fell into a deep sleep
The deep sleep signifies a state of being overwhelmed by the divine presence, often associated with receiving visions or revelations. This is similar to the experiences of other biblical figures, such as Abram in Genesis 15:12 and Peter in Acts 10:10. The deep sleep can symbolize a transition from the natural to the supernatural realm, where God imparts wisdom and understanding beyond human comprehension.

with my face to the ground
This posture of humility and submission is common in biblical accounts of encounters with the divine. It reflects reverence and awe in the presence of God's holiness, as seen in Ezekiel 1:28 and Revelation 1:17. The act of falling with one's face to the ground is a physical manifestation of worship and acknowledgment of God's supreme authority. It also highlights the human response to the overwhelming glory and majesty of God, which is a recurring theme in prophetic literature.

Suddenly, a hand touched me
This phrase indicates an unexpected divine intervention. In the context of Daniel's vision, the touch signifies a moment of divine communication and reassurance. The hand likely belongs to an angelic being, as seen in other biblical accounts where angels interact with humans (e.g., Genesis 19:1-3, Luke 1:11-13). The suddenness emphasizes the immediacy and urgency of the message being delivered to Daniel.

and set me trembling
The trembling reflects Daniel's human reaction to the divine presence, a common response in biblical narratives when encountering the supernatural (e.g., Isaiah 6:5, Ezekiel 1:28). This physical reaction underscores the awe and fear associated with encountering God's messengers. It also highlights Daniel's humility and reverence, qualities that are consistent with his character throughout the book.

on my hands and knees
This posture indicates a position of submission and vulnerability. In ancient Near Eastern culture, bowing or kneeling was a sign of respect and acknowledgment of authority. Daniel's position here is symbolic of his readiness to receive divine revelation. It also parallels other biblical instances where individuals fall prostrate before God or His messengers (e.g., Revelation 1:17). This posture prepares Daniel to receive the message that follows, emphasizing his role as a prophet and servant of God.

He said to me,
This phrase introduces a divine messenger speaking to Daniel. In the context of Daniel 10, this messenger is often understood to be an angel, possibly Gabriel, who previously appeared to Daniel in earlier visions (Daniel 8:16, 9:21). The role of angels as messengers is consistent with other biblical accounts, such as the angelic visitations to Mary and Joseph in the New Testament (Luke 1:26-38, Matthew 1:20-24).

“Daniel, you are a man who is highly precious.
Daniel is described as "highly precious," indicating his esteemed status before God. This reflects Daniel's faithfulness and dedication to God throughout his life, as seen in his refusal to defile himself with the king's food (Daniel 1:8) and his unwavering commitment to prayer (Daniel 6:10). The term "highly precious" underscores the biblical theme that God values those who are righteous and faithful, as seen in other scriptures like Psalm 116:15.

Consider carefully the words that I am about to say to you.
The instruction to "consider carefully" emphasizes the importance of the message Daniel is about to receive. This reflects the biblical principle of attentiveness to God's word, as seen in Proverbs 4:20-22, where believers are urged to pay attention to wisdom and understanding. The message Daniel receives is part of a larger prophetic revelation concerning future events, highlighting the need for discernment and understanding.

Stand up, for I have now been sent to you.”
The command to "stand up" signifies respect and readiness to receive a message. In biblical times, standing was a posture of attentiveness and reverence, as seen when people stood to hear the reading of the Law (Nehemiah 8:5). The phrase "I have now been sent to you" indicates divine commissioning, similar to other instances where God sends messengers to deliver important revelations, such as the sending of prophets like Isaiah (Isaiah 6:8).

And when he had said this to me, I stood up trembling.
Daniel's response of standing "trembling" reflects the awe and fear often experienced in the presence of the divine or angelic beings. This reaction is consistent with other biblical accounts, such as when the prophet Isaiah encountered God's holiness (Isaiah 6:5) or when the apostle John fell at the feet of the risen Christ (Revelation 1:17). The trembling signifies both reverence and the overwhelming nature of the divine encounter.

Do not be afraid, Daniel,
This phrase is a common reassurance found throughout Scripture when divine beings or angels appear to humans (e.g., Genesis 15:1, Luke 1:30). It indicates the overwhelming nature of such encounters and the need for comfort. Daniel, a prophet in exile, is being reassured by a heavenly messenger, emphasizing God's care and the importance of the message being delivered.

he said,
The speaker is an angelic being, likely Gabriel, who previously appeared to Daniel (Daniel 8:16, 9:21). Angels often serve as messengers of God, conveying His will and providing insight into divine plans.

for from the first day that you purposed to understand and to humble yourself before your God,
Daniel's intention to understand and his humility are key themes. His actions reflect a deep commitment to seeking God's will and understanding His plans. This mirrors the biblical principle that God honors those who earnestly seek Him (Jeremiah 29:13, James 4:10). Daniel's humility is a model for believers, showing the importance of approaching God with a contrite heart.

your words were heard,
This assurance highlights the power of prayer and God's attentiveness to the prayers of the faithful. It echoes other biblical passages where God hears and responds to the cries of His people (Psalm 34:17, 1 John 5:14-15). Daniel's prayers are effective because they align with God's will and are offered in humility.

and I have come in response to them.
The angel's arrival is a direct result of Daniel's prayers, demonstrating the connection between prayer and divine action. This reflects the biblical teaching that God sends help and guidance in response to the prayers of His people (Acts 10:4, Revelation 8:3-4). The angel's mission underscores the importance of Daniel's role in God's prophetic plan and the spiritual warfare involved in delivering divine messages (Daniel 10:13).

However, the prince of the kingdom of Persia opposed me for twenty-one days.
This phrase introduces a spiritual conflict involving a "prince" who is not a human ruler but a spiritual being, likely a demonic entity assigned to Persia. The term "prince" here suggests a hierarchy among spiritual beings, paralleling the structure of earthly kingdoms. The "kingdom of Persia" refers to the Persian Empire, a dominant world power during Daniel's time. The "twenty-one days" indicates a prolonged period of spiritual warfare, corresponding to the three weeks Daniel spent in mourning and prayer (Daniel 10:2-3). This suggests that Daniel's prayers were part of a larger spiritual battle. The concept of spiritual warfare is echoed in Ephesians 6:12, which speaks of struggles against spiritual forces of evil.

Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me,
Michael is identified as "one of the chief princes," indicating his high rank among angelic beings. In Jude 1:9, Michael is called an archangel, reinforcing his significant role in spiritual battles. Michael's intervention suggests that he has a special responsibility for protecting God's people, as seen in Daniel 12:1, where he stands up for the children of Israel. His assistance highlights the reality of angelic support in spiritual conflicts and the importance of divine intervention in overcoming evil forces.

for I had been left there with the kings of Persia.
The phrase "left there with the kings of Persia" implies that the speaker, likely the angelic messenger, was engaged in a struggle with multiple spiritual entities associated with Persia. The "kings" may refer to other spiritual powers aligned with the prince of Persia, indicating a coalition of forces opposing God's purposes. This reflects the broader theme of spiritual opposition to God's plans throughout history. The mention of being "left there" suggests a temporary stalemate until Michael's arrival, emphasizing the need for divine assistance in spiritual warfare. This aligns with the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and the ultimate triumph of His will, as seen in Revelation 12:7-9, where Michael and his angels defeat the dragon and his forces.

Now I have come to explain to you
This phrase indicates the purpose of the angelic visitation to Daniel. The angel is a messenger sent by God to provide understanding. In the biblical context, angels often serve as intermediaries between God and humans, delivering divine messages (e.g., Gabriel's announcement to Mary in Luke 1:26-38). The need for explanation suggests that the vision is complex and requires divine insight, highlighting the limitations of human understanding without God's revelation.

what will happen to your people
"Your people" refers to the Israelites, Daniel's ethnic and spiritual community. This phrase underscores the focus on the Jewish nation, which is central to God's redemptive plan throughout the Old Testament. Historically, the Israelites were in exile in Babylon during Daniel's time, and the message pertains to their future. The phrase also connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's covenant with Israel, as seen in Genesis 12:1-3 and Deuteronomy 7:6-9.

in the latter days
The "latter days" is a prophetic term often used in the Bible to refer to the end times or a future period of fulfillment of God's plans. This phrase is significant in eschatological studies, as it points to events that will occur at the culmination of history. It is used in other prophetic books, such as Isaiah 2:2 and Jeremiah 30:24, to describe a time of restoration and judgment. Theologically, it can be linked to the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of God's kingdom.

for the vision concerns those days.
The vision given to Daniel is specifically about the events that will unfold in the "latter days." This indicates that the prophecy is not just for Daniel's immediate context but has a future fulfillment. The vision's concern with "those days" suggests a divine timetable and purpose, aligning with other prophetic scriptures like Ezekiel 38-39 and Revelation 19-22. It also implies that the vision is part of God's sovereign plan, which will ultimately lead to the redemption and restoration of His people.

While he was speaking these words to me
This phrase refers to the angelic being, likely Gabriel, who is delivering a message to Daniel. The context is a vision Daniel receives during the third year of Cyrus, king of Persia. The words spoken are part of a revelation concerning future events, including the struggles of Israel. This moment is significant as it highlights the divine communication between God and His prophets, a common theme throughout the Bible, as seen in other prophetic books like Isaiah and Ezekiel.

I set my face toward the ground
Daniel's reaction of bowing his face to the ground is a sign of humility and reverence, common in biblical encounters with the divine or angelic beings. This posture is seen in other scriptural accounts, such as Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:6) and John in Revelation (Revelation 1:17). It reflects the overwhelming nature of divine presence and the human response of awe and submission.

and became speechless
Daniel's inability to speak signifies the profound impact of the vision and the message he is receiving. This mirrors other biblical instances where individuals are rendered speechless in the presence of divine revelation, such as Zechariah in Luke 1:20. It underscores the theme of human limitation in the face of God's majesty and the weight of prophetic revelation.

And suddenly one with the likeness of a man touched my lips
This phrase indicates a divine encounter, as the figure resembles a man but is likely an angelic being. The act of touching the lips is reminiscent of Isaiah 6:7, where a seraphim touches Isaiah's lips with a coal to purify him. This signifies preparation for speaking or receiving a message from God. The "likeness of a man" suggests a theophany or angelophany, where divine beings appear in human form, a common biblical motif.

and I opened my mouth and said to the one standing before me
The opening of Daniel's mouth signifies readiness to communicate, often seen in prophetic literature when a prophet is about to deliver a message from God. The "one standing before me" is likely the same angelic figure who has been interacting with Daniel throughout this vision, possibly Gabriel, who is mentioned earlier in the book (Daniel 8:16).

“My lord, because of the vision, I am overcome with anguish
Daniel addresses the figure as "my lord," a term of respect and acknowledgment of authority. The vision he refers to is the intense and overwhelming revelation of future events, which causes him great distress. This reflects the common prophetic experience of being physically and emotionally affected by divine revelations, as seen in other prophets like Ezekiel (Ezekiel 3:15).

and I have no strength.
The lack of strength is a physical manifestation of the spiritual and emotional burden of receiving divine visions. This mirrors other biblical accounts where individuals are left weakened by encounters with the divine, such as John in Revelation 1:17. It underscores the human frailty in the presence of God's overwhelming power and the weight of prophetic insight.

How can I, your servant, speak with you, my lord?
This phrase reflects Daniel's humility and reverence in the presence of a heavenly being, likely an angel. In the biblical context, Daniel is overwhelmed by the vision and the presence of this divine messenger. The term "your servant" indicates Daniel's recognition of his position before God and His messengers, a common theme throughout Scripture where prophets and faithful individuals acknowledge their servitude to God (e.g., Moses in Exodus 4:10). The use of "my lord" shows respect and acknowledges the authority of the heavenly being, similar to how Abraham addressed the Lord in Genesis 18:3.

Now I have no strength,
Daniel's lack of strength is a physical manifestation of the overwhelming nature of the divine encounter. This is consistent with other biblical accounts where individuals are physically affected by the presence of God or His angels, such as Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1:28) and John in Revelation (Revelation 1:17). The experience of divine visions often left prophets physically weakened, highlighting the power and holiness of God compared to human frailty.

nor is any breath left in me.
The phrase indicates a complete depletion of energy and vitality, emphasizing the intensity of the spiritual experience. In the ancient Near Eastern context, breath was often associated with life and spirit (Genesis 2:7), so the absence of breath signifies a profound impact on Daniel's being. This mirrors the reaction of other biblical figures who encountered the divine, underscoring the awe and fear that accompany such revelations. Theologically, it points to the need for divine strength and sustenance, as human strength is insufficient in the presence of God's glory.

Again the one with the likeness of a man
This phrase refers to a heavenly being appearing to Daniel. The description "likeness of a man" suggests an angelic figure, possibly Gabriel, who is often depicted in human form when delivering messages from God (Daniel 8:15-16, Luke 1:19). The appearance of angels in human form is consistent with other biblical accounts, such as the angels visiting Abraham (Genesis 18:2) and Lot (Genesis 19:1). This emphasizes the accessibility and relatability of divine messengers to humans.

touched me
The act of touching is significant in biblical narratives, often symbolizing impartation of strength, healing, or blessing. In Daniel's context, the touch signifies divine empowerment and reassurance. Similar instances occur in the New Testament, where Jesus touches individuals to heal or bless them (Matthew 8:3, Mark 5:41). This touch indicates a personal and direct interaction between the divine and human realms.

and strengthened me
Daniel, overwhelmed by his visions and the presence of the divine, required strength to continue receiving and understanding the revelation. This strengthening is both physical and spiritual, enabling Daniel to stand and listen (Daniel 10:19). The theme of divine strength is echoed throughout Scripture, such as in Isaiah 40:29-31, where God gives power to the faint. This also prefigures the strengthening believers receive through the Holy Spirit (Philippians 4:13), highlighting God's provision for His servants to fulfill their divine missions.

Do not be afraid, you who are highly precious,
This phrase is a reassurance from a heavenly messenger, likely an angel, to Daniel. The command "Do not be afraid" is a common biblical exhortation, often given by God or His messengers to calm those who are in awe or fear of divine presence (e.g., Genesis 15:1, Luke 1:30). The term "highly precious" indicates Daniel's esteemed status before God, reflecting his faithfulness and righteousness. This echoes earlier in Daniel 9:23, where Daniel is also called "highly esteemed." It highlights the special relationship between God and His faithful servants.

he said. “Peace be with you!
The greeting "Peace be with you" is a traditional Hebrew salutation, "Shalom," which conveys not just the absence of conflict but a holistic sense of well-being and divine favor. This peace is a gift from God, often associated with His presence and blessing (Numbers 6:24-26). In the New Testament, Jesus frequently uses this greeting (John 20:19, 21), symbolizing the peace He brings through reconciliation with God.

Be strong now; be very strong!”
The call to be strong is a divine encouragement, reminiscent of God's exhortation to Joshua (Joshua 1:6-9) as he prepared to lead Israel into the Promised Land. It emphasizes reliance on God's strength rather than human ability. The repetition "be very strong" underscores the importance of courage and resilience in the face of spiritual and physical challenges. This strength is not self-derived but is imparted by God, enabling His servants to fulfill their divine missions.

As he spoke with me, I was strengthened and said,
Daniel's response to the angel's words demonstrates the transformative power of divine encouragement. The strengthening is both physical and spiritual, enabling Daniel to continue receiving the vision. This mirrors instances where God's word imparts strength and courage to His people (Isaiah 40:29-31). It signifies the empowering nature of God's presence and promises.

“Speak, my lord, for you have strengthened me.”
Daniel's reply shows his readiness and willingness to receive further revelation. The term "my lord" is a respectful address to the angelic messenger, acknowledging his authority as a representative of God. The acknowledgment "for you have strengthened me" indicates Daniel's recognition of the source of his renewed strength. This interaction reflects the biblical theme of God equipping His servants for the tasks He sets before them, as seen in the lives of Moses, Elijah, and the apostles.

“Do you know why I have come to you?” he said.
This phrase is spoken by a heavenly messenger, often identified as an angel, who appears to Daniel. The context is a vision Daniel receives during a time of mourning and fasting. The question emphasizes the importance of the message and the divine purpose behind the angel's visit. It reflects the biblical theme of divine revelation, where God communicates His plans and purposes to His prophets. This encounter is reminiscent of other angelic visitations in Scripture, such as those to Abraham, Mary, and Joseph, where the purpose of the visit is to deliver a significant message.

“I must return at once to fight against the prince of Persia,”
The "prince of Persia" is understood to be a spiritual being, possibly a demonic force, that influences the Persian Empire. This reflects the biblical worldview of spiritual warfare, where earthly events are influenced by spiritual entities. The angel's need to "fight" suggests ongoing spiritual battles that affect the course of human history. This concept is echoed in Ephesians 6:12, which speaks of struggles against spiritual forces. The mention of Persia ties into the historical context of the Jewish exile and the subsequent return under Persian rule, highlighting the interplay between divine sovereignty and human empires.

“and when I have gone forth, behold, the prince of Greece will come.”
The "prince of Greece" refers to another spiritual entity associated with the Greek Empire, which historically succeeded the Persian Empire. This prophecy foreshadows the rise of Greece, particularly under Alexander the Great, and the subsequent Hellenistic influence on the Jewish people. The transition from Persia to Greece is a key element in the prophetic timeline of Daniel, aligning with the visions of the statue in Daniel 2 and the beasts in Daniel 7. This phrase underscores the theme of God's sovereignty over the rise and fall of nations, as well as the spiritual dimensions behind geopolitical shifts.

But first I will tell you what is inscribed in the Book of Truth.
The "Book of Truth" is understood as a heavenly record of God's sovereign plans and purposes. This concept aligns with other biblical references to divine books, such as the "Book of Life" (Revelation 20:12). The idea of a heavenly book suggests that God’s plans are predetermined and unchangeable, emphasizing His omniscience and sovereignty. This phrase indicates that the message Daniel is about to receive is not a new revelation but part of God's eternal plan. The angelic messenger is preparing to reveal events that are already determined, underscoring the reliability and authority of the prophecy.

Yet no one has the courage to support me against these,
The "these" likely refers to spiritual forces opposing God's purposes, possibly demonic entities or principalities. This phrase highlights the spiritual warfare theme prevalent in Daniel and other biblical texts, such as Ephesians 6:12, which speaks of struggles against spiritual forces of evil. The mention of courage suggests the intensity and danger of this spiritual conflict. The angelic messenger's struggle indicates that even in the heavenly realms, there is resistance to God's plans, requiring divine intervention and support.

except Michael your prince.
Michael is identified as a chief prince and protector of Israel, as seen in Daniel 12:1. His role as a warrior angel is also noted in Jude 1:9 and Revelation 12:7, where he leads heavenly armies against Satan. The designation "your prince" signifies Michael's special role in defending God's people, Israel. This highlights the theme of divine protection and the assurance that God has appointed powerful beings to guard His people. Michael's involvement underscores the importance of Israel in God's redemptive plan and the spiritual battles that accompany their history.