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Daniel 10:16

And, behold, one like the similitude of the sons of men touched my lips: then I opened my mouth, and spake, and said unto him that stood before me, O my lord, by the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I have retained no strength.

Daniel 10:16 · King James Version

Meaning

When Daniel sees a heavenly being in his vision, he describes the being as one who looked like a human but with divine qualities. The being then touches Daniel's lips, giving him the ability to speak. Daniel acknowledges his weakness in the presence of this divine being, as his sorrows overwhelm him and leave him without strength. This verse highlights the contrast between the human limitations of Daniel and the supernatural nature of the vision he is experiencing. Despite his fear and weakness, Daniel finds his voice and addresses the heavenly being respectfully as his lord. The verse emphasizes Daniel's humility and vulnerability in the face of the divine, showing his acknowledgment of his own shortcomings in comparison to the greatness of the heavenly messenger.

Theological Overview

One interesting theological interpretation of this verse comes from considering the significance of the figure who touched the speaker's lips. The phrase "one like the similitude of the sons of men" could be seen as a representation of a divine being or an angelic presence. This encounter could symbolize a moment of divine intervention or empowerment, where the speaker is given the ability to speak and convey a message. The act of touching the lips could also be seen as a purification or consecration, preparing the speaker to deliver a message on behalf of God. The phrase "O my lord" further emphasizes the reverence and deference shown by the speaker towards the figure who stood before them, underscoring the importance of the encounter and the message being delivered. Additionally, the speaker's acknowledgment of their own limitations and weaknesses in the face of the vision could highlight the awe-inspiring nature of the divine realm and the profound impact it can have on human beings.

Daniel 10:16 in other translations

American Standard Version

And, behold, one in the likeness of the sons of men touched my lips: then I opened my mouth, and spake and said unto him that stood before me, O my lord, by reason of the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I retain no strength.

World English Bible

Behold, one in the likeness of the sons of men touched my lips: then I opened my mouth, and spoke and said to him who stood before me, my lord, by reason of the vision my sorrows are turned on me, and I retain no strength.

Douay-Rheims

And behold as it were the likeness of a son of man touched my lips: then I opened my mouth and spoke, and said to him that stood before me: O my lord, at the sight of thee my joints are loosed, and no strength hath remained in me.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And beholde, one like the similitude of the sonnes of man touched my lippes: then I opened my mouth, and spake, and said vnto him that stoode before me, O my Lord, by the vision my sorowes are returned vpon me, and I haue reteined no strength.