The account of Daniel's strength being renewed is found in the Book of Daniel, specifically in chapter 10. This event occurs during the third year of Cyrus, king of Persia, when Daniel receives a profound vision concerning a great conflict. The narrative provides a glimpse into the spiritual realm and highlights the power of prayer, fasting, and divine intervention.

Context and Background

Daniel, a prophet and a man of great faith, is living in exile in Babylon. Despite his circumstances, he remains steadfast in his devotion to God. By the time of this vision, Daniel is an elderly man, having served under several kings. His commitment to prayer and fasting is evident throughout the book, and it is during one of these periods of mourning and seeking God that he receives the vision.

The Vision and Daniel's Reaction

In Daniel 10:2-3 , it is recorded, "In those days, I, Daniel, was mourning for three full weeks. I ate no rich food, no meat or wine entered my mouth, and I did not anoint myself at all, until the three weeks were completed." This period of fasting and prayer sets the stage for the divine encounter that follows.

As Daniel stands by the Tigris River, he sees a man clothed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist. His body is like beryl, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of polished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude (Daniel 10:5-6). This awe-inspiring figure is often interpreted as a heavenly being, possibly an angel, sent to deliver a message to Daniel.

Upon seeing this vision, Daniel is overwhelmed and falls into a deep sleep with his face to the ground. The presence of the heavenly being is so powerful that even the men with Daniel, who do not see the vision, are filled with terror and flee to hide themselves (Daniel 10:7-9).

Renewal of Strength

In his weakened state, Daniel is touched by a hand that sets him trembling on his hands and knees. The heavenly messenger addresses him as "Daniel, you who are highly esteemed," and encourages him to understand the words spoken to him (Daniel 10:10-11). Despite his fear, Daniel is reassured by the angel's words and is told not to be afraid, for his prayers have been heard from the first day he set his heart to gain understanding and to humble himself before God (Daniel 10:12).

The angel explains that he was delayed for twenty-one days by the prince of the Persian kingdom, a reference to spiritual warfare, until Michael, one of the chief princes, came to assist him (Daniel 10:13). This insight into the spiritual battle underscores the reality of unseen forces at work and the importance of perseverance in prayer.

As the conversation continues, Daniel is left speechless and overwhelmed by the vision. The angel touches his lips, enabling him to speak and express his anguish and lack of strength (Daniel 10:15-17). Once again, the angel touches Daniel, strengthening him and offering words of peace and encouragement: "Do not be afraid, you who are highly esteemed. Peace be with you! Be strong now; be very strong" (Daniel 10:19). With this divine empowerment, Daniel is able to receive the message and prepare for the revelation of future events.

Significance

The renewal of Daniel's strength serves as a powerful testament to God's faithfulness and the efficacy of prayer and fasting. It illustrates the reality of spiritual warfare and the necessity of divine assistance in overcoming challenges. Daniel's experience encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting that God hears their prayers and provides the strength needed to fulfill His purposes.