Daniel 7:13 (KJV)

What does Daniel 7:13 mean?

Daniel 7:13 describes Daniel seeing a vision at night where someone "like the Son of man" comes with the clouds of heaven and is brought near to the "Ancient of days." This scene shows a special figure approaching God, who is pictured as the Ancient of days, in a dramatic and heavenly setting.

Daniel is the one having this vision, and he is describing what he sees to his readers. The vision takes place at night and is filled with symbolic imagery: the "Son of man" is a human-like figure, while the "Ancient of days" represents God in a majestic, timeless way. The clouds and the act of being brought near highlight the importance and honor given to this figure in Daniel's vision.

The Aramaic behind Daniel 7:13

• "Son" (בַּר, bar) and "man" (אֱנָשׁ, enash): These words together mean "a son of man," or "a human-like one." The phrase points to someone who appears human, standing out among other heavenly beings in Daniel's vision.
• "Ancient" (עַתִּיק, attiq) and "days" (יוֹם, yom): This title, "Ancient of days," emphasizes God's eternal nature and wisdom, picturing God as one who has existed from the very beginning.
• "Clouds" (עֲנַן, anan): In the ancient world, clouds often symbolized a divine presence or glory, so coming with the clouds suggests this figure has a special, heavenly authority.
• "Near" (קְרַב, qerab): The word for "brought near" shows that the "Son of man" is given access and honor before the Ancient of days, which is a significant moment in the vision.

Why Daniel 7:13 matters

• Daniel 7:13 helps clear up that the "Son of man" is a unique, honored figure who is given a special role in God's presence, not just an ordinary person.
• The verse connects to the wider vision in Daniel 7, where different kingdoms and powers are described, and this "Son of man" stands out as someone who receives authority from God.
• The scene emphasizes the idea of God as the eternal judge ("Ancient of days") and introduces a figure who is given access to God's throne, setting up important themes for later parts of Daniel and for how this vision is understood in later Jewish and Christian thought.