Book of Daniel - Chapter 10 - Verse 16

When Daniel sees a heavenly being in his vision, he describes the being as one who looked like a human but with divine qualities. The being then touches Daniel's lips, giving him the ability to speak. Daniel acknowledges his weakness in the presence of this divine being, as his sorrows overwhelm him and leave him without strength. This verse highlights the contrast between the human limitations of Daniel and the supernatural nature of the vision he is experiencing. Despite his fear and weakness, Daniel finds his voice and addresses the heavenly being respectfully as his lord. The verse emphasizes Daniel's humility and vulnerability in the face of the divine, showing his acknowledgment of his own shortcomings in comparison to the greatness of the heavenly messenger.

One interesting theological interpretation of this verse comes from considering the significance of the figure who touched the speaker's lips. The phrase "one like the similitude of the sons of men" could be seen as a representation of a divine being or an angelic presence. This encounter could symbolize a moment of divine intervention or empowerment, where the speaker is given the ability to speak and convey a message. The act of touching the lips could also be seen as a purification or consecration, preparing the speaker to deliver a message on behalf of God. The phrase "O my lord" further emphasizes the reverence and deference shown by the speaker towards the figure who stood before them, underscoring the importance of the encounter and the message being delivered. Additionally, the speaker's acknowledgment of their own limitations and weaknesses in the face of the vision could highlight the awe-inspiring nature of the divine realm and the profound impact it can have on human beings.