Topical Encyclopedia
The Angel's Explanation refers to instances in the Bible where an angel provides insight or clarification regarding divine visions, dreams, or messages. These explanations are pivotal in understanding God's will and the unfolding of His divine plan. Angels, as messengers of God, serve to illuminate the meaning of supernatural revelations to human recipients, ensuring that God's intentions are clearly communicated and understood.
Daniel's VisionsOne of the most notable examples of the Angel's Explanation occurs in the Book of Daniel. Daniel, a prophet during the Babylonian exile, receives several complex visions concerning future events and the fate of nations. In
Daniel 7, after witnessing a vision of four great beasts, Daniel is troubled and seeks understanding. An angelic figure, likely Gabriel, provides an explanation: "These four great beasts are four kings who will arise from the earth" (
Daniel 7:17). The angel further elaborates on the vision, detailing the rise and fall of kingdoms and the eventual establishment of God's eternal kingdom.
In
Daniel 8, Daniel receives another vision involving a ram and a goat. Again, the angel Gabriel is sent to explain the vision: "Understand, son of man, that the vision concerns the time of the end" (
Daniel 8:17). Gabriel proceeds to interpret the symbols, identifying the ram as the kings of Media and Persia and the goat as the king of Greece.
Zechariah's VisionsThe Book of Zechariah also contains instances of angelic explanations. Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet, receives a series of night visions. In
Zechariah 1, the prophet sees a vision of a man among the myrtle trees. An angel explains the vision, revealing God's intention to restore Jerusalem and show mercy to His people: "I am exceedingly jealous for Jerusalem and Zion, but I am very angry with the nations that are at ease" (
Zechariah 1:14-15).
Throughout the book, angels continue to provide explanations for Zechariah's visions, ensuring that the prophet comprehends the messages of hope, restoration, and future glory for Israel.
The Book of RevelationIn the New Testament, the Book of Revelation is replete with angelic explanations. The Apostle John receives a series of apocalyptic visions while exiled on the island of Patmos. Angels frequently appear to clarify the meaning of these visions. For instance, in
Revelation 17, an angel explains the mystery of the woman and the beast: "The woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth" (
Revelation 17:18).
Angelic explanations in Revelation serve to unveil the spiritual realities behind the symbolic imagery, providing insight into the ultimate triumph of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom.
Role of Angels in Divine RevelationThe Angel's Explanation underscores the role of angels as intermediaries between God and humanity. By providing clarity and understanding, angels facilitate the communication of divine truths. These explanations are essential for the recipients of visions and dreams, enabling them to grasp the significance of God's messages and act accordingly.
In the biblical narrative, the Angel's Explanation highlights God's desire for His people to understand His plans and purposes. Through angelic intervention, God ensures that His revelations are accessible and comprehensible, guiding His people in faith and obedience.