Daniel 8:16
And I heard a man's voice between the banks of Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this man to understand the vision.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Angelophany (angelic appearance) was relatively common in Old Testament—angels appeared to Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Gideon, and others. These appearances often preceded major redemptive events. Gabriel's appearance to Daniel anticipates explaining prophecies about successive empires leading to Messiah's kingdom. The next Gabriel appearance in Scripture announces Christ's incarnation (Luke 1:26), creating an interpretive key: Daniel's prophecies find fulfillment in Jesus. Understanding this connection helps us read Daniel Christocentrically.
Questions for Reflection
- What does God's command that Daniel must understand teach us about His desire to reveal rather than conceal His purposes?
- How does Gabriel's role as interpreter model the Holy Spirit's ministry of illumination in helping us understand Scripture?
- In what ways does the chain of revelation—God to Gabriel to Daniel to us—demonstrate God's commitment to communicating His plans?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The phrase "I heard a man's voice between the banks of Ulai" describes a divine voice—the Hebrew suggests God Himself or a high-ranking angel speaking with authority. The location "between the banks" may indicate the voice came from heaven, between earth and sky. This voice commands Gabriel: "make this man to understand the vision." The urgency demonstrates God's commitment to revealing His purposes—He doesn't give visions to confuse but to instruct His people.
Gabriel's commissioning by divine voice parallels New Testament scenes where Father's voice directs Son (Matthew 3:17, 17:5) and Son commissions disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). God's revelation is always purposeful—He speaks to be understood, provides interpreters, and ensures His message reaches intended recipients. The command "make this man understand" shows God's gracious condescension; He could leave us in ignorance but chooses to reveal His plans.
This points to Christ as ultimate Prophet who makes God known. As Gabriel revealed divine purposes to Daniel, Christ reveals the Father to us (John 1:18). The Great Commission extends this—believers empowered by the Spirit must help others understand God's revelation. Understanding isn't automatic but requires divine enablement and faithful teaching, fulfilling the pattern established here.