Daniel 9:21 (KJV)

What does Daniel 9:21 mean?

Daniel 9:21 describes how, while Daniel was still praying, the angel Gabriel—whom Daniel had seen earlier—came to him quickly and touched him around the time of the evening sacrifice. The verse highlights the sudden and swift arrival of Gabriel in response to Daniel’s prayer.

Daniel is the speaker, recounting a personal experience during his prayer for his people. The mention of Gabriel as "the man" he had seen before connects this event to earlier visions in the book. The timing—during the "evening oblation"—shows Daniel’s ongoing faithfulness to Jewish worship practices, even while in exile.

The Hebrew behind Daniel 9:21

• גַּבְרִיאֵל (Gavri'el, "Gabriel"): This name means "God is my strength." Gabriel is described as "the man" here, emphasizing his appearance in human form, though he is an angelic messenger.
• עוֹף (ʿūf, "fly"): The word means "to fly," suggesting Gabriel’s rapid movement. This highlights the urgency and speed with which the message is delivered.
• מָגִיעַ (maggiaʿ, "touched"): The verb means "to touch" or "to reach." Gabriel’s physical contact with Daniel shows a personal and direct encounter, not just a distant vision.
• עֶת־מִנְחַת־עָרֶב (ʿet-minḥat-ʿarev, "time of the evening oblation"): This phrase refers to the time of the evening sacrifice, a key moment in Jewish worship, even though the temple was destroyed. Daniel’s reference shows his continued devotion.

Why Daniel 9:21 matters

• Daniel 9:21 shows that Daniel’s prayers are heard and answered quickly, emphasizing God’s attentiveness and the role of angelic messengers.
• The verse connects Daniel’s experience to the regular rhythm of Jewish worship, even in exile, highlighting faithfulness in difficult circumstances.
• By mentioning Gabriel, Daniel 9:21 links this moment to earlier visions, preparing the reader for the important message Gabriel is about to deliver.