Bible Verse Meaning: Daniel 10:4

Verse Reference: Daniel 10:4 - "And in the four and twentieth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, which is Hiddekel."

Overview

This verse sets the scene for Daniel's profound revelation and prayer, highlighting the time frame and geographic context of God's message to him. Understanding this context helps to unpack the theological significance of Daniel's vision and its implications for both his time and the future of God's people.

Meaning and Interpretation

Daniel 10:4 marks a pivotal moment where the prophet receives a revelation after a period of fasting and mourning. The use of specific dates and locations in Scripture serves to ground the spiritual experiences in historical context.

Insights from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry: Matthew Henry emphasizes the solemnity of the occasion, noting that Daniel's solemn fast in the first month aligns with the Jewish calendar, possibly corresponding to Passover, and suggests a invocation for divine intervention and understanding amidst the struggles the Israelites faced.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes discusses the significance of the river Tigris (Hiddekel) as a symbol of life and sustenance. The river's location underlines God's accessibility, reminding believers of God's continuous presence and communication with His people.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke highlights the importance of time as Daniel receives the vision during a significant season of reflection and supplication, thereby signifying the connection between earnest prayer and divine revelation.

Connections to Other Bible Verses

To deepen your understanding of Daniel 10:4, consider the following Bible verse cross-references that illustrate similar themes or teachings:

• Daniel 9:3: Reflects Daniel's practice of prayer and fasting in seeking understanding.
• Ezekiel 1:1: Ezekiel also experienced divine visions, establishing the prophetic tradition.
• Revelation 1:9-10: John, like Daniel, receives a revelation while in isolation; both highlight the importance of solitude in encountering God's message.
• Lamentations 2:19: Links the themes of mourning and seeking God amid distress, resonating with Daniel's emotional state during fasting.
• Isaiah 58:6-9: Addresses the genuine purpose of fasting, which corresponds to Daniel's actions in the context of seeking God’s will.
• 2 Corinthians 12:2-4: Discusses the human experience of divine revelation, creating parallels between Paul and Daniel's encounters.
• Philippians 4:6-7: Encouragement to bring concerns to God in prayer echoes the intent behind Daniel's fasting and prayer.
• Acts 10:9-10: Peter’s vision emphasizes the importance of divine encounters during times of prayer, reminiscent of Daniel's experience.
• James 5:16: The power of prayer and seeking God mirrors Daniel's fervent actions in the face of great need.

Thematic Connections

This verse illustrates several key biblical themes:

• Prayer and Fasting: Central to Daniel's response to crisis; both are vital tools for spiritual discernment.
• Divine Revelation: The encounter signifies God's willingness to reveal His plans to His faithful servants, echoing the broader biblical narrative of revelation.
• Historical Context: The mention of dates and locations provides grounding; God's work through history is crucial for understanding His eternal purpose.

Studying Daniel 10:4

For further study, tools for Bible cross-referencing can enhance your understanding of how this verse connects with the broader scriptural narrative. Consider utilizing a Bible concordance, a Bible cross-reference guide, or engaging in a cross-reference Bible study session.

As you explore the complex inter-Biblical dialogue, think critically about how the themes of Daniel's fasting and prayer connect to contemporary practices of seeking God. This both builds your understanding and enriches your spiritual life.

Conclusion

Understanding Daniel 10:4 within its context and connections deepens the meaning of this verse, highlighting the importance of prayer, fasting, and divine encounter. By engaging with scriptural cross-referencing methods, you can discover the profound links that exist between various passages and how they collectively enhance our spiritual journey.