Daniel 10:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Daniel 10:21
21 But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.
Chapter Context
Daniel 10 is a apocalyptic and narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, obedience, faith. Written during the Babylonian and Persian periods (c. 605-530 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Demonstrates faithful living under foreign rule during the Babylonian and Persian empires.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Daniel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Daniel 10:21
21 But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.
Analysis
The angel concludes: 'But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.' The 'scripture of truth' (כְּתָב אֱמֶת/ketav emet) indicates a heavenly record of determined future events—God's sovereign decree written in His eternal counsel. This teaches divine foreknowledge and predestination: history unfolds according to God's predetermined plan. Michael, called 'your prince,' is Israel's angelic guardian (12:1, Jude 9, Revelation 12:7)—showing God assigns angelic protection to His people. The phrase 'none that holdeth with me...but Michael' indicates few allies in spiritual warfare against powerful demonic forces—most angels have other assignments; only Michael specifically aids this messenger. This reveals both spiritual warfare's reality and angelic organization under God's command.
Historical Context
Michael the archangel appears in Daniel (10:13, 21; 12:1), Jude 9 (disputing with Satan over Moses's body), and Revelation 12:7 (leading heavenly armies against the dragon). Jewish tradition recognized Michael as Israel's heavenly defender. The concept of 'books' or 'records' in heaven appears throughout Scripture: book of life (Exodus 32:32, Revelation 20:12), books of works (Revelation 20:12), scroll with seven seals (Revelation 5-6). These images teach that history isn't random but unfolds according to divine decree. God knows and has determined (while including human free agency mysteriously) all events. The 'scripture of truth' being revealed to Daniel shows God graciously discloses portions of His eternal counsel to prophets for His people's benefit—not exhaustive knowledge but sufficient revelation for faithful living.
Reflection
- What does the 'scripture of truth' (heavenly record of future events) teach about divine sovereignty and foreknowledge?
- How does Michael's designation as 'your prince' demonstrate God's particular care for His chosen people?
- Why does God reveal portions of His eternal counsel to prophets while keeping other aspects hidden?
Word Studies
- Truth: אֱמֶת (Emet) H571 - Truth, faithfulness
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Daniel 10:13, 12:1, Jude 1:9, Revelation 12:7