Daniel 10:4 (KJV)

What does Daniel 10:4 mean?

Daniel 10:4 describes Daniel standing by the side of the great river Hiddekel (also known as the Tigris) on the twenty-fourth day of the first month. This verse sets the scene for a significant vision Daniel is about to receive, marking the time and place with careful detail.

Daniel himself is the speaker, and he is recounting his own experience. The mention of the "first month" places this event during the Hebrew month of Nisan, a time associated with Passover. By specifying the "great river, which is Hiddekel," Daniel identifies his location as near the Tigris River, which was a major river in ancient Mesopotamia. This careful setting helps the reader understand the historical and geographical context leading up to the vision that follows.

The Hebrew behind Daniel 10:4

• "four" (אַרְבַּע, arbaʿ) and "twentieth" (עֶשְׂרִים, ʿesrîm): These words combine to specify the exact day, emphasizing the precision with which Daniel records the timing of his experience.
• "first" (רִאשׁוֹן, rishon) and "month" (חֹדֶשׁ, chodesh): This phrase points to the Hebrew calendar, specifically the month of Nisan, which is significant for Jewish readers because it includes Passover.
• "side" (יָד, yad): Literally meaning "hand," this word is often used for "side" or "bank" of a river, showing Daniel was physically present at the river's edge.
• "great" (גָּדוֹל, gadol) and "river" (נָהָר, nahar): These words stress the importance and size of the Tigris, highlighting the grandeur of the setting.
• "Hiddekel" (חִדֶּקֶל, Hiddekel): This is the Hebrew name for the Tigris River, one of the four rivers mentioned in Genesis as flowing from Eden, linking Daniel’s experience to earlier biblical geography.

Why Daniel 10:4 matters

• Daniel 10:4 gives a precise time and place, showing that what follows is rooted in real history and geography, not just a vague or symbolic vision.
• The mention of the first month (Nisan) connects this moment to important events in Israel’s calendar, suggesting that what Daniel experiences may have special significance for his people.
• By situating Daniel at the Tigris River, the verse links his vision to the heart of ancient empires, underlining the importance of what is about to be revealed in the following verses.