Daniel 10:5

KJV

Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins [were] girded with fine gold of Uphaz:

KJV (with Strong's)

Then I lifted up {H5375} mine eyes {H5869}, and looked {H7200}, and behold a certain {H259} man {H376} clothed {H3847} in linen {H906}, whose loins {H4975} were girded {H2296} with fine gold {H3800} of Uphaz {H210}:

Complete Jewish Bible

when I looked up, and there before me was a man dressed in linen wearing a belt made of fine Ufaz gold.

Berean Standard Bible

I lifted up my eyes, and behold, there was a certain man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist.

American Standard Version

I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, a man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with pure gold of Uphaz:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
After three weeks of intense mourning and fasting, the prophet Daniel is granted a profound vision by the river Hiddekel, experiencing a divine manifestation of immense glory and power. This verse introduces a majestic, human-like figure whose radiant appearance and distinctive attire—linen garments and a golden girdle—immediately signify a being of extraordinary holiness, authority, and divine origin, setting the stage for the detailed prophecies that follow.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 10 serves as the introduction to Daniel's final and most extensive prophetic vision, which spans through [Daniel 11](/daniel/11 "Daniel 11 - Prophecies of Kings and Conflicts") and [Daniel 12](/daniel/12 "Daniel 12 - The Time of the End and Resurrection"). The chapter opens with Daniel's deep spiritual distress and a three-week period of fasting and mourning, indicating his profound burden for his people and the future. This period of intense spiritual preparation precedes the vision, emphasizing the solemnity and significance of the revelation. The appearance of this glorious figure in [Daniel 10:5](/daniel/10-5 "Daniel 10:5 - Vision of the Glorious Man") is so overwhelming that Daniel's companions flee, and Daniel himself is left prostrate and without strength, underscoring the immense power and holiness of the divine messenger. This encounter prepares Daniel to receive the complex and challenging prophecies that will unfold concerning the conflicts between earthly kingdoms and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Daniel's vision takes place in the third year of Cyrus, king of Persia (c. 536 BC), placing it roughly two years after the decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and begin rebuilding the temple. Despite the decree, the process was fraught with opposition, and the Jewish people faced significant challenges and discouragement, as recorded in [Ezra 4](/ezra/4 "Ezra 4 - Opposition to Rebuilding the Temple"). Daniel, though an old man, remained in Babylon, likely serving in the Persian court, and continued to intercede for his people. The cultural context of ancient Near Eastern visions often involved encounters with divine beings, but Daniel's visions consistently emphasize the sovereignty of the one true God over all earthly powers. The imagery of a "girded" figure was common for readiness and authority, whether for labor, battle, or official duties, and the use of precious metals like "fine gold of Uphaz" would immediately convey immense wealth, status, and divine majesty to an ancient audience.
* **Key Themes:** The appearance of this glorious man in [Daniel 10:5](/daniel/10-5 "Daniel 10:5 - Vision of the Glorious Man") introduces several crucial themes. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Manifestation and Glory**, showcasing God's willingness to reveal Himself and His heavenly messengers in awe-inspiring ways to His faithful servants. The radiant description points to a being of immense divine authority, often interpreted as a Christophany (a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ) or a highly exalted angel. Secondly, the attire emphasizes **Purity, Righteousness, and Holiness**. Being "clothed in linen" is a recurring biblical symbol for purity and righteousness, notably worn by priests in the Old Testament ([Exodus 28:42](/exodus/28-42 "Exodus 28:42 - Linen Breeches for Priests")) and associated with heavenly beings and the redeemed in the New Testament ([Revelation 15:6](/revelation/15-6 "Revelation 15:6 - Angels Clothed in Pure Linen"); [Revelation 19:8](/revelation/19-8 "Revelation 19:8 - The Bride's Fine Linen")). Finally, the "girded loins" with "fine gold" signifies **Authority, Readiness, and Divine Value**. Girding the loins prepared one for action, while gold universally denotes royalty, wealth, and divine majesty. This imagery underscores the figure's readiness to execute divine decrees and his supreme, invaluable nature, echoing similar descriptions of divine beings in scripture, such as the Son of Man in [Revelation 1:13](/revelation/1-13 "Revelation 1:13 - The Son of Man with a Golden Girdle").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **man (Hebrew, _ʼîysh'_):** This term (H376) typically refers to an individual male person. However, in contexts of divine or angelic appearances, it can denote a figure with a human-like form but possessing extraordinary, non-human attributes. Here, combined with the subsequent glorious description, it signals a being distinct from ordinary men, yet appearing in a relatable, albeit overwhelming, form to Daniel.
* **clothed (Hebrew, _lâbash'_):** The root (H3847) means "to wrap around" or "to put on a garment." In this verse, it describes the act of the figure being adorned with linen, which carries significant symbolic weight. The verb emphasizes the deliberate act of wearing specific attire that communicates the figure's nature and role.
* **girded (Hebrew, _châgar'_):** This primitive root (H2296) means "to gird on," typically referring to fastening a belt or armor around the loins. It signifies preparedness, strength, and readiness for action, whether for work, battle, or a journey. The act of girding suggests a state of active engagement and purposeful intent.
* **Uphaz (Hebrew, _ʼÛwphâz'_):** This proper noun (H210) refers to a famous gold region, possibly a corruption or alternative name for Ophir. Its inclusion emphasizes the exceptional quality and purity of the gold, underscoring the immense value, majesty, and divine nature of the figure's adornment. The gold from Uphaz would have been recognized as the finest available, highlighting the supreme excellence of this being.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked,"**: Daniel, having been in a state of deep mourning and spiritual preparation, actively engages his senses. This phrase indicates a deliberate act of perception, signaling that what follows is a direct, visual encounter with a divine manifestation, not merely an internal impression or dream. It sets the scene for the profound revelation.
* **"and behold a certain man"**: The interjection "behold" (Hebrew: *hinneh*) draws immediate attention to the astonishing nature of the sight. The phrase "a certain man" introduces a figure who appears human-like but whose subsequent description quickly transcends ordinary humanity, hinting at a unique and singular individual of immense significance.
* **"clothed in linen,"**: This detail is highly symbolic. Linen, particularly fine linen, in biblical contexts, represents purity, holiness, and righteousness. It was the prescribed attire for priests ministering before God and is associated with heavenly beings. This clothing immediately communicates the sacred, undefiled nature of the figure.
* **"whose loins [were] girded with fine gold of Uphaz:"**: The loins, the seat of strength, being girded signifies readiness, power, and authority. The material, "fine gold of Uphaz," further elevates the figure's status. "Gold" denotes royalty, divinity, and immense value, while "Uphaz" specifies gold of the highest purity and quality, emphasizing the extraordinary, unblemished, and supremely precious nature of this divine being.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 10:5 is rich in **Imagery** and **Symbolism**. The description of the "man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz" paints a vivid picture designed to convey profound theological truths. The **linen** symbolizes purity, holiness, and righteousness, connecting the figure to the sacred priestly attire and the unblemished nature of divine beings. The **gold of Uphaz** is a powerful symbol of divine majesty, royalty, and immense value, suggesting an unparalleled glory. The act of being **girded** symbolizes readiness, strength, and authority, indicating that this figure is prepared for action and possesses immense power. The overall effect is one of **Awe-inspiring Description**, intended to evoke a sense of overwhelming reverence and humility in Daniel, and by extension, in the reader. The figure's appearance also serves as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the divine authority and purity that will be central to the messages he delivers in the subsequent chapters.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 10:5 presents a profound theological encounter, revealing the active involvement of heavenly beings in human affairs and the spiritual battles that underlie earthly events. The glorious figure, often interpreted as a Christophany or a high-ranking angel, embodies divine purity, authority, and readiness. This vision underscores the reality of the spiritual realm and God's sovereign control over history, even amidst periods of human struggle and political upheaval. The description of the figure's attire—linen and fine gold—connects to broader biblical themes of holiness, righteousness, and divine majesty, emphasizing the sacred nature of God's messengers and His ultimate glory. This encounter prepares Daniel, and us, for the revelation of God's intricate plan for the ages, demonstrating that God's purposes are being worked out by powerful, holy agents.

* [Ezekiel 1:26-28](/ezekiel/1-26-28 "Ezekiel 1:26-28 - Vision of God's Glory")
* [Revelation 1:13-16](/revelation/1-13-16 "Revelation 1:13-16 - Vision of the Glorified Christ")
* [Matthew 17:2](/matthew/17-2 "Matthew 17:2 - The Transfiguration of Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel's encounter in Daniel 10:5 reminds us that our spiritual journey is not confined to the visible world. There is a profound, active spiritual reality, often unseen but deeply impactful, in which God's messengers operate and divine purposes unfold. Daniel's three weeks of fasting and mourning prior to this vision highlight the importance of spiritual preparation, persistent prayer, and a heart burdened for God's will. When we earnestly seek God, even in times of distress or confusion, He is faithful to reveal Himself and His truth, sometimes in ways that are overwhelming yet ultimately strengthening. This vision encourages us to cultivate a posture of humility and reverence before God's majesty, recognizing that His power and authority transcend all earthly limitations. It calls us to look beyond immediate circumstances to the ultimate, glorious reality of God's sovereign rule, trusting that He sends His holy agents to accomplish His will and bring clarity to His people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Daniel's spiritual preparation (fasting, mourning) relate to his receptivity to this profound vision? What does this suggest about our own preparation for spiritual encounters?**
* **What aspects of the "man's" description (linen, gold, girded loins) most powerfully convey a sense of divine majesty and authority to you? How does this imagery shape your understanding of God's messengers or even God Himself?**
* **In what ways might recognizing the reality of an active spiritual realm, as depicted in this verse, impact your daily life and perspective on challenges?**
* **How can we cultivate a greater sense of awe and reverence for God's holiness and power, as Daniel experienced in this vision?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "certain man" Daniel sees in this vision?**

Answer: The identity of the "certain man" in Daniel 10:5 is a subject of theological discussion. Many scholars interpret this figure as a Christophany, a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ. This interpretation is strongly supported by the highly majestic and divine description, which bears striking similarities to the vision of the glorified Christ in [Revelation 1:13-16](/revelation/1-13-16 "Revelation 1:13-16 - Vision of the Glorified Christ"), particularly the "garment down to the foot" and the "golden girdle." Other scholars suggest it is a very high-ranking angel, such as Michael or Gabriel, given their prominent roles elsewhere in Daniel (e.g., [Daniel 8:16](/daniel/8-16 "Daniel 8:16 - Gabriel Interprets the Vision"); [Daniel 12:1](/daniel/12-1 "Daniel 12:1 - Michael, the Great Prince")). However, the overwhelming glory and the profound effect on Daniel (and his companions) seem to point to a being of even greater stature than typical angelic appearances, making the Christophany view compelling. Regardless of the precise identity, the figure is clearly a divine messenger of immense authority and holiness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 10:5 describes a magnificent, human-like figure in the Old Testament, its imagery profoundly foreshadows and finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. The "man clothed in linen" resonates with Christ's perfect purity and righteousness, qualities essential for His role as our High Priest, who offered Himself as a spotless sacrifice (e.g., [Hebrews 7:26](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26 - Christ, a Holy, Harmless, Undefiled High Priest")). The "loins girded with fine gold of Uphaz" speaks to divine authority, readiness, and immeasurable value. This imagery is strikingly echoed in John's vision of the glorified Christ in [Revelation 1:13](/revelation/1-13 "Revelation 1:13 - The Son of Man with a Golden Girdle"), where the "Son of Man" is described as "clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle." This connection strongly suggests that the figure Daniel saw was indeed a pre-incarnate manifestation of the Lord Jesus, revealing His eternal glory and sovereign power even before His earthly advent. Christ, as the ultimate divine messenger, is the one who reveals God's deepest truths ([John 1:18](/john/1-18 "John 1:18 - No One Has Seen God Except the Son")), and through His sacrifice and resurrection, He has secured the ultimate victory over the spiritual forces of evil that Daniel's vision hints at ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). Thus, the glorious figure of Daniel 10:5 points forward to the supreme majesty and redemptive work of the incarnate Christ.

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

Revelation 1:13

And in the midst of the seven candlesticks [one] like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.

Revelation 1:15

And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.

Daniel 12:6

And [one] said to the man clothed in linen, which [was] upon the waters of the river, How long [shall it be to] the end of these wonders?

Daniel 12:7

And I heard the man clothed in linen, which [was] upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that [it shall be] for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these [things] shall be finished.

Ezekiel 9:2

And, behold, six men came from the way of the higher gate, which lieth toward the north, and every man a slaughter weapon in his hand; and one man among them [was] clothed with linen, with a writer's inkhorn by his side: and they went in, and stood beside the brasen altar.

Jeremiah 10:9

Silver spread into plates is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz, the work of the workman, and of the hands of the founder: blue and purple [is] their clothing: they [are] all the work of cunning [men].

Revelation 15:6

And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.