But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.

DANIEL 10:21KJV
Know the Bible

Daniel 10:21 (KJV)

What does Daniel 10:21 mean?

Daniel 10:21 describes how the heavenly messenger promises to reveal to Daniel what is written in the "scripture of truth," a record of God’s plans, and states that only Michael, described as "your prince," stands with him in these matters. The verse highlights the unique support of Michael, an angelic figure, in the spiritual conflict being described.

In this verse, the speaker is an angelic messenger talking to Daniel during a vision. The messenger assures Daniel that he will explain what is recorded in the divine record of truth, emphasizing that these are not just his own words but part of God’s established plan. The mention of Michael as "your prince" points to Michael’s special role as a protector or leader for the people of Israel, and it also hints at a larger spiritual struggle happening behind the scenes.

The Hebrew behind Daniel 10:21

  • "Scripture" (כְּתָב, kᵊṯāḇ): This word means a written record or document. Here, it refers to the "scripture of truth," suggesting a heavenly book or record that contains God’s true plans for history, not just human writings.
  • "Truth" (אֱמֶת, ʾĕmeṯ): This word means firmness, faithfulness, or reliability. The phrase "scripture of truth" underlines that what is being revealed is certain and trustworthy, not speculation or rumor.
  • "Michael" (מִיכָאֵל, mîḵāʾēl): Michael is introduced as "your prince," meaning he is a spiritual leader or protector specifically connected to Daniel’s people, Israel. This highlights a personal, national guardian role.
  • "Prince" (שַׂר, śar): This term means a chief, leader, or ruler. In the context of angels, it points to a high-ranking spiritual being with authority, reinforcing Michael’s importance.

Why Daniel 10:21 matters

  • Daniel 10:21 clarifies that the message Daniel receives is not just a private vision, but part of a larger, divinely recorded plan, lending weight and authority to what follows.
  • The verse introduces Michael as a key spiritual figure who supports God’s purposes for Israel, setting up his later appearances in the book and in other biblical texts.
  • By mentioning the "scripture of truth," the verse connects Daniel’s experience to the idea that history and future events are under God’s control, not random or unknown.

Where else these words appear

“But” Hebrew H61 · used in 11 verses

  • Genesis 17:19 And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him.
  • 1 Kings 1:43 And Jonathan answered and said to Adonijah, Verily our lord king David hath made Solomon king.
  • 2 Chronicles 19:3 Nevertheless there are good things found in thee, in that thou hast taken away the groves out of the land, and hast prepared thine heart to seek God.

“Michael” Hebrew H4317 · used in 13 verses

  • Numbers 13:13 Of the tribe of Asher, Sethur the son of Michael.
  • 1 Chronicles 7:3 And the sons of Uzzi; Izrahiah: and the sons of Izrahiah; Michael, and Obadiah, and Joel, Ishiah, five: all of them chief men.
  • 2 Chronicles 21:2 And he had brethren the sons of Jehoshaphat, Azariah, and Jehiel, and Zechariah, and Azariah, and Michael, and Shephatiah: all these were the sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel.

“scripture” Hebrew H3791 · used in 16 verses

  • 1 Chronicles 28:19 All this, said David, the LORD made me understand in writing by his hand upon me, even all the works of this pattern.
  • Nehemiah 7:64 These sought their register among those that were reckoned by genealogy, but it was not found: therefore were they, as polluted, put from the priesthood.
  • Esther 8:8 Write ye also for the Jews, as it liketh you, in the king's name, and seal it with the king's ring: for the writing which is written in the king's name, and sealed with the king's ring, may no man reverse.

“truth” Hebrew H571 · used in 125 verses

  • Genesis 24:27 And he said, Blessed be the LORD God of my master Abraham, who hath not left destitute my master of his mercy and his truth: I being in the way, the LORD led me to the house of my master's brethren.
  • Psalms 26:3 For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.
  • Proverbs 22:21 That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?