What happensPermalink
After three weeks of mourning, Daniel sees a glorious figure clothed in linen and collapses. A heavenly messenger strengthens him and explains that his prayer was heard from the first day. The “prince of Persia” resisted the messenger for twenty-one days until Michael helped him. He has come to explain what will happen to Daniel’s people before resuming the conflict, in which Greece’s prince will also appear.
Why it mattersPermalink
Chapters 10–12 form one revelation. The spiritual conflict behind earthly empires helps explain Daniel’s waiting: his prayer was heard before the messenger arrived. Repeated touches and assurances of God’s love strengthen him to receive what follows. History’s outcome is already recorded in the “book of truth,” even as conflict continues. The glorious figure’s appearance later echoes in John’s vision of Christ (Revelation 1:13–16).
Key versePermalink
And he said to me, “O Daniel, man greatly loved, understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright, for now I have been sent to you.” And when he had spoken this word to me, I stood up trembling.