Daniel 10:2
In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks.
Original Language Analysis
יָמִֽים׃
In those days
H3117
יָמִֽים׃
In those days
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
1 of 9
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
הָיִ֣יתִי
H1961
הָיִ֣יתִי
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
5 of 9
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
שְׁלֹשָׁ֥ה
three
H7969
שְׁלֹשָׁ֥ה
three
Strong's:
H7969
Word #:
7 of 9
three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice
Historical Context
This mourning occurred during Passover season (verse 4 mentions first month), making Daniel's fasting more significant—he abstained from Passover celebration to mourn Jerusalem's situation. Temple foundation was laid (Ezra 3:8-13) but opposition halted construction. Daniel, elderly and distant in Persia, interceded for his people. His example encouraged later Jewish communities facing opposition—faithful prayer persists despite obstacles, delayed answers, and geographic separation from problems. God hears and responds to persistent intercession.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Daniel's three-week mourning teach us about the spiritual preparation often required before receiving divine revelation?
- How should understanding that prayer triggers unseen spiritual warfare encourage persistent intercession despite delayed answers?
- In what ways does Daniel's intercessory mourning prefigure Christ's ongoing intercession for His people?
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Analysis & Commentary
Daniel's preparation for the vision involved intense spiritual discipline: "In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks." The Hebrew avel (אָבֵל, "mourning") indicates deep grief, not mere sadness. This three-week period of mourning preceded the vision, suggesting intentional spiritual preparation. Daniel's grief likely concerned Jerusalem's situation—though exiles returned, opposition hindered temple rebuilding (Ezra 4). Faithful intercession often precedes divine revelation; spiritual receptivity requires self-denial and focused prayer.
The three-week period is significant—verse 13 reveals angelic warfare occurring during this time. Daniel's prayers triggered spiritual battle in heavenly realms. His perseverance in prayer despite delayed answer demonstrates faith that continues seeking God when immediate response doesn't come. Many quit praying after days or weeks; Daniel prayed through despite three weeks of apparent silence. Persistent prayer isn't manipulating God but aligning ourselves with His purposes, demonstrating faith that trusts even when answers delay.
This models Christ's intercession, who "always lives to intercede" (Hebrews 7:25). Jesus spent nights in prayer, agonized in Gethsemane, and maintains eternal intercession for His people. Daniel's mourning and prayer points to Christ's superior ministry—His perfect intercession accomplishes what our flawed prayers cannot. Yet Christ invites believers to join His intercessory work, partnering with Him in prayer that moves heaven and changes earth.