Daniel 10:5

Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz:

Daniel 10:5 (KJV)

Context

Daniel received this vision after three weeks of mourning, fasting, and prayer, on the twenty-fourth day by the Tigris River, during the third year of Cyrus, king of Persia. His lifting up of his eyes shows his attentiveness and openness to receive divine revelation, a posture of seeking God.

Meaning

The man clothed in linen represents purity and righteousness, while the fine gold of Uphaz, a place renowned for its pure gold, signifies great value, royalty, and divine glory. The description of the man’s attire emphasizes his heavenly authority and dignity.

The identity of this man is debated. Some interpret him as an angel, while others see him as a pre-incarnate appearance of the Son of God, the Messiah, who appeared in human form before His incarnation. This appearance is consistent with other Old Testament theophanies, where God or His messenger appears visibly. The description conveys both holiness and royal splendor, setting the stage for the important message that follows in the chapter.

Biblical connections

This vision connects to other Old Testament theophanies, such as the appearance of the Angel of the Lord, and to the priestly and kingly imagery of linen and gold, which point to Christ’s roles as prophet, priest, and king.

Application

Daniel’s posture of lifting up his eyes encourages believers to be attentive and open to God’s revelation, especially in times of mourning and fasting. The holiness and glory of the figure remind us of the majesty of God and the importance of approaching Him with reverence.

Reflection

Interpretations of this figure may vary, and studying the surrounding verses and the broader context of the book of Daniel provides additional insight into the meaning and significance of this passage.