What is the context?
The final encounter begins in the third year of Cyrus. Daniel, also called Belteshazzar, receives a true message concerning a great conflict. This encounter continues through the remaining chapters of the book.
He describes three full weeks of mourning. During that time he eats no rich food or meat, drinks no wine and uses no anointing oil. His abstinence expresses the seriousness of his seeking.
The chapter’s opening states that understanding is given to him. What follows explains the encounter through which he is strengthened and prepared to hear about his people’s future.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Henry and Gaebelein treat the chapter as preparation for the final prophecy. Cambridge connects Daniel’s mourning and self-humbling with his concern to understand the future of his people.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.