The "Man Clothed in Linen" is a significant figure in biblical prophecy, particularly in the books of Daniel and Ezekiel. This figure is often associated with divine revelation and the execution of God's will, appearing in visions that convey profound spiritual truths and future events.

Biblical References:

1. Daniel 10:5-6 : "I lifted up my eyes and looked, and behold, there was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist. His body was like beryl, his face like the brilliance of 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."

In this passage, Daniel encounters a heavenly being during a vision by the Tigris River. The description of the man clothed in linen is striking and majestic, suggesting a being of great power and authority. The linen garment is often interpreted as a symbol of purity and righteousness, while the belt of gold signifies divine truth and value. The imagery of lightning, flaming torches, and polished bronze further emphasizes the supernatural and awe-inspiring nature of this figure.

2. Ezekiel 9:2-3 : "And I saw six men coming from the direction of the upper gate, which faces north, each with a weapon of slaughter in his hand. And among them was a man clothed in linen, with a writing kit at his side. They went in and stood beside the bronze altar."

In Ezekiel's vision, the man clothed in linen is distinguished from the other six men by his writing kit, indicating a role of recording or marking. This figure is tasked with marking the foreheads of those who lament the abominations committed in Jerusalem, signifying protection from the impending judgment. The linen clothing again underscores themes of holiness and divine service.

3. Daniel 12:6-7 : "One of them said to the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, 'How long until the fulfillment of these wonders?' And the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, raised his right hand and his left hand toward heaven, and I heard him swear by Him who lives forever, saying, 'It will be for a time, times, and half a time. When the power of the holy people has been shattered, all these things will be completed.'"

Here, the man clothed in linen is positioned above the waters, symbolizing authority over chaos and the natural order. His response to the question about the duration of the prophetic events reveals his role as a messenger of God's timing and sovereignty. The act of raising both hands and swearing by the eternal God emphasizes the certainty and divine origin of the prophecy.

Theological Significance:

The man clothed in linen is often interpreted as an angelic being or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, known as a Christophany. His appearances in visions are marked by themes of judgment, protection, and revelation. The linen garment consistently symbolizes purity, righteousness, and service to God, aligning with the roles of priests and angels in biblical tradition.

In the broader context of biblical prophecy, the man clothed in linen serves as a mediator of divine messages, revealing God's plans and purposes to His people. His presence in these visions underscores the holiness and authority of God's word, as well as the assurance of His ultimate justice and redemption.