Daniel 10:17

For how can the seruant of this my Lord, talke with this my Lord? for as for me, straightway there remained no strength in mee, neither is there breath left in me. Daniel 10:17 (KJV)

Daniel 10:17 is part of a larger passage in the Book of Daniel in which Daniel experiences a profound encounter with a heavenly messenger while he is by the Tigris River. In this chapter Daniel receives a vision and a message from an angelic being, and verse 17 records his response to the overwhelming presence of the celestial messenger.

The phrase “And how can the servant of this my lord talk with this my lord?” reveals Daniel’s astonishment and humility before the divine messenger. He acknowledges his unworthiness and his role as a servant before the Lord, demonstrating a clear recognition of the divine hierarchy. This statement of humility is followed by a vivid description of his physical condition: “for as for me, straightway there remained no strength in me, neither is there any breath left in me.” The encounter leaves Daniel completely drained of strength and breath.

A parallel description in the same verse adds that “my spirit was within me as the spirit of a man, and I fainted, and fell down upon my face.” These details emphasize the intensity of the experience, showing that Daniel was physically exhausted and unable to stand in the presence of the heavenly being.

Both descriptions underscore the power and awe‑inspiring nature of divine encounters. They illustrate the immense difference between the human and the divine, highlighting Daniel’s recognition of his limited capacity compared to the heavenly realm. The passage also points to the need for God’s grace and empowerment to sustain humans when faced with such divine manifestations.

Overall, Daniel 10:17 portrays a response of humility, weakness, and astonishment in the presence of a celestial messenger, highlighting the majesty and power of God’s divine beings and the profound impact such encounters can have on a faithful servant.