Daniel 10:18

Then there came again and touched me [one] like the appearance of a man, and he strengthened me,

Then there came again {H3254} and touched {H5060} me one like the appearance {H4758} of a man {H120}, and he strengthened {H2388} me,

Then, again someone who looked human touched me and revived me.

Again the one with the likeness of a man touched me and strengthened me.

Then there touched me again one like the appearance of a man, and he strengthened me.

Commentary

Daniel 10:18 describes a pivotal moment in the prophet Daniel's profound vision, where he receives supernatural aid after being overwhelmed by the divine encounter.

Context of Daniel 10:18

This verse is part of Daniel's third major vision, which begins in Daniel chapter 10. Daniel had been in a state of deep mourning and fasting for three weeks, experiencing profound spiritual distress. Earlier in the chapter, a glorious, angelic being (often interpreted as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ or a high-ranking angel) appeared to him, causing Daniel to fall into a deep sleep and lose his strength (Daniel 10:9). An initial touch in Daniel 10:10 lifted him to his hands and knees, and a subsequent message in Daniel 10:11 declared him "greatly beloved." Despite this, Daniel remained weak and speechless, highlighting the immense impact of divine presence on human frailty. Verse 18 marks a second, distinct touch, specifically aimed at restoring his strength so he could receive the crucial message about the future and the spiritual battles unfolding.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Strengthening: The core message is God's provision of strength in moments of human weakness. Daniel was physically and emotionally drained, but the touch from the angelic being directly infused him with renewed vigor. This illustrates God's compassionate care for His servants, ensuring they are equipped for His purposes.
  • Angelic Ministry: This passage vividly portrays angels as active agents in God's service, ministering to humans, especially in times of spiritual or physical distress. The one "like the appearance of a man" is a heavenly messenger, sent to assist Daniel and enable him to stand.
  • Preparation for Revelation: The strengthening was not merely for comfort but for purpose. Daniel needed to be physically and mentally capable of receiving and comprehending the weighty prophetic truths that were yet to be revealed, particularly concerning the future conflicts and the end times.
  • Perseverance in Prayer: Daniel's long period of fasting and prayer (Daniel 10:3) led to this divine intervention. Even when answers seem delayed or spiritual battles intense, God provides the necessary strength to endure until His purposes are fulfilled.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "touched me" comes from the Hebrew word naga' (Χ Χ’Χ’), which denotes a direct, impactful physical contact, not just a casual brush. This touch is transformative, imparting energy and vitality. The word "strengthened me" is from the Hebrew chazaq (Χ—Χ–Χ§), meaning to be strong, firm, courageous, or to make strong. It signifies an impartation of resilience and resolve, enabling Daniel to stand and speak, as seen in Daniel 10:19.

Practical Application

Daniel's experience in verse 18 offers profound encouragement for believers today. When facing overwhelming challenges, spiritual attacks, or personal weakness, we can trust that God provides supernatural strength. Just as Daniel was enabled to receive and understand profound truths, so too does God equip us for the tasks and revelations He has for us. This verse reminds us that even when we feel utterly drained, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually, God's touch can renew our strength, empowering us to continue our spiritual journey and stand firm in our faith. It echoes the promise that God will strengthen and help us, upholding us with His righteous right hand.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 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.

  • Isaiah 35:3

    Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.

  • Isaiah 35:4

    Say to them [that are] of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come [with] vengeance, [even] God [with] a recompence; he will come and save you.

  • Daniel 8:18

    Now as he was speaking with me, I was in a deep sleep on my face toward the ground: but he touched me, and set me upright.

  • Luke 22:43

    And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.

  • Colossians 1:11

    Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

  • 1 Samuel 23:15

    And David saw that Saul was come out to seek his life: and David [was] in the wilderness of Ziph in a wood.
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