Daniel 10:21

KJV

But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and [there is] none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {H61} I will shew {H5046} thee that which is noted {H7559} in the scripture {H3791} of truth {H571}: and there is none {H259} that holdeth {H2388} with me in these things, but Michael {H4317} your prince {H8269}.

Complete Jewish Bible

nevertheless, I will tell you what is written in the Book of Truth. There is no one standing with me against them except Mikha'el your prince;

Berean Standard Bible

But first I will tell you what is inscribed in the Book of Truth. Yet no one has the courage to support me against these, except Michael your prince.

American Standard Version

But I will tell thee that which is inscribed in the writing of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me against these, but Michael your prince.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 10:21 serves as a pivotal declaration by an angelic messenger to the prophet Daniel, revealing the certainty of divine revelation and the intense spiritual conflict unfolding behind the scenes of human history. The angel assures Daniel that the forthcoming prophecy is "noted in the scripture of truth," signifying God's unalterable, predetermined plan, and crucially, identifies Michael as the sole angelic ally who "holdeth with me in these things," underscoring his unique role as Israel's heavenly protector amidst cosmic spiritual warfare.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 10 initiates the final and most extensive prophetic vision in the book of Daniel, spanning chapters 10-12. This vision, received in the third year of Cyrus, King of Persia, follows Daniel's period of fasting and mourning (Daniel 10:2-3). The chapter describes Daniel's encounter with a glorious angelic being, who explains his delayed arrival due to a fierce spiritual battle with the "prince of the kingdom of Persia" [Daniel 10:13](/daniel/10-13 "Daniel 10:13 - The Angelic Conflict"). Verse 21 functions as the angel's solemn preface to the detailed unfolding of future events concerning Persia, Greece, and the end times, as recorded in [Daniel 11](/daniel/11 "Daniel 11 - Prophecy of Kings and Kingdoms") and [Daniel 12](/daniel/12 "Daniel 12 - The End Times and Resurrection"). It establishes the divine authority and certainty of the coming revelations, while also setting the stage for understanding the spiritual forces at play in human history.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The vision in Daniel 10 occurs around 536 BC, approximately two years after the initial return of Jewish exiles to Jerusalem under Zerubbabel, but before the rebuilding of the temple had fully resumed or was completed. Daniel, now an elderly statesman serving in the Persian court, is deeply concerned about his people's future and the challenges they face in their homeland. The Persian Empire was the dominant world power, having overthrown Babylon. The mention of the "prince of the kingdom of Persia" and "the prince of Grecia" [Daniel 10:20](/daniel/10-20 "Daniel 10:20 - Princes of Persia and Grecia") reflects a worldview where spiritual entities are believed to exert influence over earthly nations and their leaders, a concept not uncommon in ancient Near Eastern thought, though uniquely articulated in Daniel within a monotheistic framework. This context highlights Daniel's anxiety for Israel's welfare amidst powerful gentile empires and the unseen spiritual forces that govern them.
* **Key Themes:** Daniel 10:21 profoundly contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Daniel and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Predetermined Plan**. The phrase "noted in the scripture of truth" powerfully conveys that God's plan for history is not arbitrary but is meticulously pre-recorded and unalterable, assuring Daniel that all events, however chaotic they may seem, unfold according to God's precise will. This theme is foundational to Daniel's prophecies, demonstrating God's ultimate control over kingdoms and human affairs, as seen in [Daniel 2](/daniel/2 "Daniel 2 - Nebuchadnezzar's Dream and God's Kingdom"). Secondly, the verse vividly portrays the reality of **Intense Spiritual Warfare**. The angelic messenger's need for Michael's assistance against the "prince of Persia" [Daniel 10:13](/daniel/10-13 "Daniel 10:13 - Spiritual Conflict") and the declaration that "none that holdeth with me... but Michael" reveals a cosmic struggle between angelic forces and demonic powers that directly impacts earthly events. This unseen battle underscores the need for divine intervention and protection. Finally, the specific mention of **God's Protectorate Over Israel** through Michael as "your prince" emphasizes God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people. Michael's unique role as Israel's guardian angel provides assurance that even in the midst of formidable spiritual opposition, God's chosen nation is divinely defended, a theme further elaborated in [Daniel 12:1](/daniel/12-1 "Daniel 12:1 - Michael Stands for Israel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **scripture (Hebrew, _kâthâb'_):** From H3791. This word refers to something written, a writing, record, or book. In this context, it is not necessarily a physical scroll but signifies a divine, eternal record or blueprint. It denotes the certainty and fixed nature of God's decrees and plans for history.
* **truth (Hebrew, _ʼemeth'_):** From H571. This word conveys stability, certainty, and trustworthiness. When combined with "scripture," it emphasizes the infallible and unalterable nature of God's divine plan. It is a "truth" that is firm, reliable, and absolutely certain to come to pass.
* **holdeth (Hebrew, _châzaq'_):** From H2388. This primitive root means to fasten upon, seize, be strong, aid, confirm, or maintain. Here, it signifies providing strong support, assistance, or standing firm alongside someone in a struggle. The angel is stating that no one else provides the necessary strength or aid in these specific spiritual battles except Michael.
* **Michael (Hebrew, _Mîykâʼêl'_):** From H4317. This name literally means "Who is like God?" He is identified as an archangel and is consistently portrayed in scripture as a powerful angelic warrior, specifically tasked with defending God's people, Israel. His name itself is a rhetorical question, affirming God's incomparable power and authority.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth:"** This opening clause establishes the divine origin and certainty of the prophecy Daniel is about to receive. The angelic messenger is not speaking his own words but revealing what is already "noted" or recorded in God's eternal, infallible blueprint for history. This "scripture of truth" is God's fixed, unchangeable plan, assuring Daniel of the absolute reliability and ultimate fulfillment of the forthcoming revelations.
* **"and [there is] none that holdeth with me in these things,"** This dramatic statement highlights the intensity and solitary nature of the spiritual warfare in which the angelic messenger is engaged. "These things" refers to the ongoing battles against the demonic "princes" influencing earthly kingdoms, particularly the "prince of Persia" mentioned earlier in the chapter. The angel reveals that he has no other ally or supporter in these specific, challenging conflicts. This underscores the formidable power of the opposing spiritual forces and the unique, critical need for specific divine assistance.
* **"but Michael your prince."** This concluding phrase identifies Michael as the sole and indispensable ally of the angelic messenger. The title "your prince" specifically designates Michael as Israel's guardian or chief prince, emphasizing his unique role as the divine protector of God's covenant people. His involvement signifies God's direct intervention and unwavering commitment to defend Israel amidst the unseen spiritual conflicts that shape human history.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several impactful literary devices. The phrase **"scripture of truth"** functions as a powerful **metaphor** for God's divine, unalterable blueprint or decree for history, emphasizing its certainty and reliability. It is not a physical scroll but a symbolic representation of God's sovereign plan. The angel's declaration, "none that holdeth with me... but Michael," utilizes **contrast** and **emphasis**. The contrast highlights the solitary nature of the angelic messenger's struggle against formidable spiritual foes, while the emphatic "none... but Michael" underscores Michael's unique and indispensable role as the only one providing effective aid. This also serves as a form of **hyperbole** to stress the critical importance of Michael's intervention. Furthermore, the naming of **Michael** as "your prince" is a form of **apostrophe**, directly addressing Daniel (and by extension, Israel) and affirming the specific, personal nature of Michael's protective role.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 10:21 is a profound window into the unseen spiritual realm, affirming God's absolute sovereignty over history while revealing the intense spiritual warfare that influences earthly affairs. It teaches us that human events are not merely the product of political machinations or chance, but are deeply intertwined with a cosmic struggle between good and evil, orchestrated and ultimately controlled by God. The "scripture of truth" assures us that God's plans are fixed and will inevitably come to pass, providing immense comfort and stability in a chaotic world. The unique role of Michael, Israel's prince, serves as a powerful reminder that God actively defends His people, providing angelic assistance when needed. This verse thus connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan unfolding through history, His ultimate triumph over all opposing forces, and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises.

* [Daniel 12:1](/daniel/12-1 "Daniel 12:1 - Michael Stands for Israel")
* [Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Spiritual Warfare Against Principalities and Powers")
* [Revelation 12:7](/revelation/12-7 "Revelation 12:7 - Michael's Battle Against the Dragon")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 10:21 offers profound encouragement and a vital perspective for believers navigating a world often marked by confusion, conflict, and a sense of powerlessness. Understanding that God has a "scripture of truth"—an unalterable, divine blueprint for history—should instill deep trust and peace. It reminds us that no human government, no global crisis, and no unseen spiritual force can ultimately thwart God's sovereign purposes. This knowledge frees us from anxiety about the future, enabling us to rest in His perfect plan. Furthermore, the revelation of Michael's active role in spiritual warfare on behalf of God's people underscores that we are not alone in our struggles. While we are called to engage in spiritual battles through prayer and faith, we are also assured that powerful angelic allies, commissioned by God, are at work on our behalf. This should cultivate a greater awareness of the unseen realm, fostering a more fervent prayer life and a deeper reliance on God's protection and provision, knowing that He is actively working to defend His children and bring His predetermined plan to fruition.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of a "scripture of truth" impact your view of God's control over history and your personal circumstances?**
* **What comfort do you draw from knowing that God has powerful angelic allies, like Michael, actively working on behalf of His people in unseen spiritual battles?**
* **How might an increased awareness of the spiritual warfare described in this verse influence your prayer life and your reliance on God's strength?**

### FAQ

**What is the "scripture of truth" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "scripture of truth" (Hebrew: _mikhtav emet_) is not a physical book or scroll that Daniel could read. Instead, it is a metaphorical expression referring to God's eternal, unchangeable, and absolutely reliable divine plan or decree for history. It signifies God's comprehensive blueprint for all events, from eternity past to eternity future. It emphasizes His omniscience and sovereignty, assuring Daniel that the prophecies he is about to receive are not speculative but are certain to come to pass because they are already "noted" in God's infallible counsel. This concept reinforces God's ultimate control over all kingdoms and human affairs, as seen throughout the book of Daniel, especially in passages like [Daniel 2:28](/daniel/2-28 "Daniel 2:28 - God Reveals Mysteries").

**Who is Michael, and why is he called "your prince"?**

Answer: Michael (Hebrew: _Mîykâʼêl_, meaning "Who is like God?") is identified in biblical tradition as an archangel, a chief prince among the angelic host. He is consistently portrayed as a powerful angelic warrior, specifically tasked with defending God's people, Israel. The title "your prince" (Hebrew: _sar'khem_) is significant because it indicates his unique and special role as the guardian and protector of the nation of Israel. This designation underscores God's specific care for His covenant people, providing them with a powerful heavenly advocate in the midst of spiritual opposition. Michael's role is further emphasized in [Daniel 12:1](/daniel/12-1 "Daniel 12:1 - Michael Stands for Israel"), where he is described as "the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people."

**What does "none that holdeth with me in these things" imply about spiritual warfare?**

Answer: This statement reveals the intense and often solitary nature of the spiritual battles fought by angelic beings against demonic forces. The angelic messenger, who had been delayed by the "prince of the kingdom of Persia" [Daniel 10:13](/daniel/10-13 "Daniel 10:13 - Angelic Conflict"), indicates that the opposition is so formidable that he has no other effective ally in these specific, high-stakes conflicts except Michael. It highlights that while many angels serve God, only certain powerful ones are equipped or commissioned for specific, intense engagements. This implies that spiritual warfare is a real, arduous, and often unseen reality, where even powerful angelic beings require specific, divine assistance to prevail against the forces of darkness that seek to influence human history and hinder God's plans.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 10:21 highlights the vital role of Michael as Israel's angelic protector and the certainty of God's "scripture of truth," its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning are found in Jesus Christ. The "scripture of truth" — God's eternal, predetermined plan — finds its ultimate purpose and culmination in Christ. He is the one in whom "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden" [Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom All Treasures Are Hidden"), and through whom God's mystery and will are fully revealed [Ephesians 1:9-10](/ephesians/1-9-10 "Ephesians 1:9-10 - God's Plan in Christ"). Furthermore, while Michael is a powerful prince, Jesus Christ is the ultimate "Prince of Peace" [Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Prince of Peace") and the "Prince of Life" [Acts 3:15](/acts/3-15 "Acts 3:15 - Jesus, the Prince of Life"). He is not merely an angelic ally but the sovereign Lord over all creation, including all angelic and demonic powers [Colossians 1:16](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - Christ, Creator of All Things"). His victory on the cross disarmed and triumphed over all principalities and powers [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers"), rendering Michael's specific battle a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate, decisive triumph. For believers in Christ, our protection is not merely through an archangel, but through the direct, indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit and the unshakeable power of Christ Himself, who assures us that no one can snatch us out of His hand [John 10:28-29](/john/10-28-29 "John 10:28-29 - No One Can Snatch Them"). Thus, Daniel 10:21 points us to the One who is the embodiment of God's truth and the supreme protector of His people.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 10:13

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.

Daniel 12:1

¶ And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation [even] to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.

Revelation 12:7

And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,

Jude 1:9

Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.

Daniel 8:26

And the vision of the evening and the morning which was told [is] true: wherefore shut thou up the vision; for it [shall be] for many days.

Acts 15:15

And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written,

Isaiah 43:8

¶ Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears.