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.
The angel addresses Daniel: 'O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent.' The designation 'man greatly beloved' (Hebrew אִישׁ חֲמֻדוֹת/ish chamudot, man of preciousness/delight) emphasizes God's particular affection for Daniel. This provides assurance amid the overwhelming encounter—fear not, you are beloved. The command to 'understand' emphasizes the message's importance; to 'stand upright' indicates the need for full attention and dignity. The phrase 'for unto thee am I now sent' establishes the angel's purpose: divine messenger bringing specific revelation for Daniel. This pattern—address, reassurance, command to attend, announcement of purpose—structures angelic communications throughout Scripture. The emphasis on understanding indicates the coming message requires careful attention and spiritual discernment.
Historical Context
Daniel's designation as 'greatly beloved' reflects his lifetime of faithful service despite exile, political dangers, and personal cost. His prayer life (chapter 6's three-times-daily prayer despite death threats), fasting (10:2-3), and commitment to God's law (chapter 1's dietary faithfulness) demonstrated consistent devotion. God's special affection for faithful servants appears throughout Scripture: Abraham 'friend of God' (2 Chronicles 20:7, James 2:23), David 'man after God's heart' (1 Samuel 13:14), John 'disciple Jesus loved' (John 13:23). These designations don't indicate favoritism but God's delight in faithful relationship. For exiled Jews and persecuted Christians, Daniel's example encouraged: faithfulness amid hostility gains divine favor; God notices and values His servants' devotion.
Questions for Reflection
What does Daniel's designation as 'greatly beloved' teach about God's particular affection for faithful servants?
How does reassurance of God's love strengthen us for receiving difficult messages or hard tasks?
What characterized Daniel's life that gained him this designation, and how can we cultivate similar faithfulness?
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Analysis & Commentary
The angel addresses Daniel: 'O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent.' The designation 'man greatly beloved' (Hebrew אִישׁ חֲמֻדוֹת/ish chamudot, man of preciousness/delight) emphasizes God's particular affection for Daniel. This provides assurance amid the overwhelming encounter—fear not, you are beloved. The command to 'understand' emphasizes the message's importance; to 'stand upright' indicates the need for full attention and dignity. The phrase 'for unto thee am I now sent' establishes the angel's purpose: divine messenger bringing specific revelation for Daniel. This pattern—address, reassurance, command to attend, announcement of purpose—structures angelic communications throughout Scripture. The emphasis on understanding indicates the coming message requires careful attention and spiritual discernment.