Daniel 10:11
And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling.
Daniel 10:11 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Daniel, the angel speaking to Daniel refers to him as "a man greatly beloved." This term of endearment serves to convey the angel's affection and admiration for Daniel, highlighting his importance and significance in the eyes of God. The angel then instructs Daniel to understand the words being spoken to him and to stand upright, implying that the message he is about to receive is crucial and requires his full attention and readiness. The angel reassures Daniel of his divine authority and purpose, emphasizing that he is being sent specifically to him. The overwhelming experience of being in the presence of such a powerful celestial being causes Daniel to tremble, showcasing the magnitude of the encounter he is about to have. This verse serves as a reminder of the profound relationship between humanity and the divine, and the importance of being open and prepared to receive messages from God.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Daniel is addressed as "a man greatly beloved" by an angel who has been sent to deliver a message to him. This phrase highlights the special relationship Daniel has with God, indicating that he is held in high esteem and favor by the divine. The angel instructs Daniel to understand the words being spoken to him and to stand upright, suggesting that what is about to be revealed is of great importance. The emphasis on standing upright conveys the idea of readiness and attentiveness to receive the message. When Daniel is addressed in this manner, he becomes overwhelmed with fear and begins to tremble. This reaction illustrates the awe-inspiring nature of the encounters Daniel has with heavenly beings and the weight of the messages he is entrusted with. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the intimate relationship between God and those who are faithful and obedient, as well as the reverence and humility required in the presence of divine revelation.
Daniel 10:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he said unto me, O Daniel, thou man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright; for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling.
World English Bible
He said to me, Daniel, you man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright; for am I now sent to you. When he had spoken this word to me, I stood trembling.
Douay-Rheims
And he said to me: Daniel, thou man of desires, understand the words that I speak to thee, and stand upright: for I am sent now to thee. And when he had said this word to me, I stood trembling.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he sayde vnto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloued, vnderstand the wordes that I speake vnto thee, and stand in thy place: for vnto thee am I nowe sent. And when hee had sayde this worde vnto me, I stood trembling.