Commentary on Daniel 10:10

Daniel 10:10 states: "And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands." This verse is significant in the context of Daniel's vision, illustrating both a physical and spiritual awakening. Here, we will explore insights from several public domain commentaries to unravel the meaning of this profound encounter.

Contextual Analysis

The setting of Daniel 10 is critical for understanding the weight of this passage. Daniel is described as being in mourning for three weeks (Daniel 10:2). This period of fasting and prayer is coupled with a deep sense of spiritual urgency. Daniel’s physical condition reflects his spiritual burden. Matthew Henry elaborates that Daniel's mourning was due to the “great heaviness and affliction” surrounding the people of God.

Historical Context

At this point in Israel’s history, the exiled people were facing trials and tribulations. Albert Barnes notes that the context includes opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple. Daniel’s prayer and fasting reveal his deep concern for God’s covenant people, framing his encounter in a direct plea for divine intervention.

The Touch of the Divine

The phrase "an hand touched me" is rich with theological implications. Adam Clarke suggests that the hand represents divine power and intervention. It is not merely a physical touch but indicates God’s presence, comfort, and readiness to communicate with Daniel.

Symbolism of the Touch

This divine touch serves as a catalyst for Daniel’s transformation from prostration to prayer. The touch signifies a renewal of strength, which is resonant with biblical themes of empowerment following moments of despair. Hebrews 12:12-13 captures this transformative aspect: “Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees.”

The Response to Divine Intervention

Daniel’s immediate reaction to the touch was to fall to his knees and palms, embodying a posture of submission and worship. Henry captures this as an expression of reverence towards the divine. It is a position of humility, indicating the recognition of God's sovereignty and holiness.

Posture in Worship

The physical posture of Daniel emphasizes the profound effect of divine encounters on the believer. Spiritual encounters demand a response. Whether through prayer, worship, or service, God calls His people to engage meaningfully with His presence. Barnes highlights that this act of kneeling is an example for believers who ought to respond to God’s interventions with humility and surrender.

The Role of Angels in Daniel's Vision

The passage continues to explore Daniel’s vision through the subsequent verses, where an angelic being assures him of answers to his prayers. Clarke points out that this touch signifies the beginning of a revelation, stressing the role angels play as messengers and ministering spirits.

Angelic Assistance

Daniel’s readiness to receive what was to be revealed through the angelic touch reflects an attitude of openness and expectation. The angel's role emphasizes God's commitment to guide and help His people, as seen later in the chapter where the angel reveals truths about future events.

Theological Implications

This encounter in Daniel 10:10 carries significant theological implications for understanding divine-human interaction. Daniel’s experience is not merely historical but serves as a model for believers today, illustrating the nature of prayer, fasting, and divine assurance.

Prayer and Divine Touch

Henry asserts the importance of prayer and a contrite spirit that invites divine engagement. Daniel’s fervent prayer brought about a tangible manifestation of God's will. This invites believers to contemplate the conditions under which they too may experience such revelations and touches from the Lord in their spiritual lives.

Holy Encounter and Transformation

Furthermore, this verse acts as a reminder of the transformative power of God’s touch in believers’ lives. It is a call to acknowledge the presence of God in our moments of despair and pressing needs. The divine hand that touches is a hand that stabilizes, empowers, and equips believers for their journey.

Concluding Insights

The commentary on Daniel 10:10, considering perspectives from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, encourages pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars to delve deeper into their spiritual postures before God. It prompts reflection on how divine touch changes our approach to worship, prayer, and our readiness to receive God’s revelation.

• Embrace Humility: Acknowledge God's sovereignty through physical and spiritual submission.
• Anticipate Transformation: Expect God to empower and equip during moments of divine touch.
• Engage in Prayer: Maintain a fervent prayer life and willingness to fast in pursuit of divine interaction.
• Recognize the Role of Angels: Understand the ministry of angels as helpers during our spiritual battles.