Daniel, a prophet of the Old Testament, is renowned for his unwavering faith and his ability to interpret dreams and visions. His response to divine revelations is a significant aspect of his narrative, particularly in the Book of Daniel. This entry explores Daniel's reactions to the revelations he received, highlighting his humility, prayerfulness, and commitment to God's will.

Context of Revelation

Daniel lived during the Babylonian exile, serving under several kings, including Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, Darius, and Cyrus. His life was marked by a series of divine revelations, often in the form of dreams and visions, which conveyed God's plans for the future of Israel and the world. These revelations are recorded primarily in the latter half of the Book of Daniel (chapters 7-12).

Daniel's Humility and Reverence

Daniel's response to revelation is characterized by humility and reverence. In Daniel 2, when King Nebuchadnezzar demands the interpretation of his dream, Daniel seeks God's mercy and wisdom. Upon receiving the revelation, Daniel praises God, acknowledging that "He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning" (Daniel 2:21). Daniel's immediate response is to glorify God, recognizing that the revelation is not due to his own merit but is a gift from the Almighty.

Prayer and Fasting

Daniel's response to revelation often involves prayer and fasting. In Daniel 9, upon understanding the prophecy of Jeremiah concerning the seventy years of desolation for Jerusalem, Daniel turns to God in prayer and supplication, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes. He confesses the sins of Israel and pleads for God's mercy and forgiveness. This demonstrates Daniel's deep concern for his people and his reliance on God for understanding and intervention.

Emotional and Physical Reactions

The revelations Daniel received often had profound emotional and physical effects on him. In Daniel 7, after receiving a vision of four great beasts, Daniel is "deeply troubled in spirit" and "the visions in [his] mind alarmed [him]" (Daniel 7:15). Similarly, in Daniel 8, after the vision of the ram and the goat, Daniel is "overcome and lay sick for days" (Daniel 8:27). These reactions underscore the weight and intensity of the divine messages he received.

Seeking Understanding

Daniel consistently seeks understanding of the revelations given to him. In Daniel 8, after the vision of the ram and the goat, Daniel seeks the meaning of the vision, and the angel Gabriel is sent to give him insight. In Daniel 10, Daniel receives a vision of a great conflict and mourns for three weeks, seeking understanding. His persistence in seeking clarity reflects his dedication to comprehending God's will and his role as a prophet.

Faithfulness and Obedience

Throughout his life, Daniel remains faithful and obedient to God's revelations. Despite the challenges and opposition he faces, Daniel continues to serve God and deliver His messages. His response to revelation is not merely intellectual or emotional; it is a commitment to live according to the divine will, regardless of personal cost.

Conclusion

Daniel's response to revelation is a testament to his character as a man of God. His humility, prayerfulness, and unwavering faith serve as an example for believers in how to respond to God's messages. Daniel's life and responses to revelation continue to inspire and instruct those who seek to understand and follow God's will.