Biblical Reference: Daniel 10:1-21

Context and Setting:
The vision by the Tigris River occurs in the third year of Cyrus, king of Persia, around 536 B.C. Daniel, a prophet and a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire, is deeply troubled by the state of his people, the Jews, who have begun returning to Jerusalem from Babylonian exile. Despite the decree allowing their return, the rebuilding of the temple faces significant opposition, causing Daniel to seek understanding through prayer and fasting.

The Vision:
Daniel's vision by the Tigris River is a profound spiritual encounter. As he stands by the 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 description suggests a heavenly being, often interpreted as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ or an angelic messenger.

Daniel's Reaction:
The vision leaves Daniel physically overwhelmed. Though his companions do not see the vision, they are struck with terror and flee, leaving Daniel alone. The encounter drains his strength, and he falls into a deep sleep with his face to the ground (Daniel 10:7-9). This reaction underscores the awe-inspiring and fearsome nature of divine revelations.

The Angelic Message:
A hand touches Daniel, setting him on his hands and knees, and a voice addresses him as "highly esteemed." The messenger reassures Daniel, explaining that his prayers were heard from the first day he set his heart to gain understanding and to humble himself before God. However, the messenger was delayed for twenty-one days by the "prince of the Persian kingdom" until Michael, one of the chief princes, came to assist him (Daniel 10:10-13). This passage provides a glimpse into the spiritual warfare that occurs behind the scenes of earthly events.

Revelation of Future Events:
The messenger reveals that he has come to make Daniel understand what will happen to his people in the latter days, for the vision concerns a time yet to come (Daniel 10:14). This indicates that the vision has eschatological significance, pointing to future conflicts and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom.

Strengthening and Encouragement:
Daniel, still weak and trembling, is further strengthened by the messenger's touch and words of encouragement. The messenger reiterates that Daniel is highly esteemed and urges him to be strong. Daniel is then given insight into the spiritual battles that will continue, as the messenger must return to fight against the prince of Persia and later the prince of Greece (Daniel 10:18-20).

Theological Significance:
Daniel's vision by the Tigris highlights the reality of spiritual warfare and the sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations. It emphasizes the power of prayer and fasting in seeking divine intervention and understanding. The vision also foreshadows the coming of God's kingdom and the ultimate victory over evil forces. Daniel's experience serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and perseverance in the face of trials and uncertainties.