King James Version
What Does Daniel 10:12 Mean?
“Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.”
Context
10
And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands. set: Heb. moved
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. greatly: Heb. of desires upright: Heb. upon thy standing
12
Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.
13
But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia. chief: or, first
14
Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(12) **From the first day.**—The meaning appears to be that this vision was vouchsafed to him in consequence of his prayer to understand what would befal his people in the future. The prayer was heard from the first day that he offered it, but it had been impossible for him to realise the answer before the present time, for reasons mentioned in the next verse.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Daniel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Daniel 10:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Daniel 10:12
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge