Daniel 10:4

On the twenty-fourth day of the first month, as I was standing on the bank of the great river, the Tigris,

Study Bible

On the twenty-fourth day of the first month
The first month in the Hebrew calendar is Nisan, which corresponds to March-April in the Gregorian calendar. This timing is significant as it follows the Passover, a key Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt. The 24th day suggests that Daniel had been in a period of mourning and fasting, as mentioned earlier in the chapter, which aligns with the traditional period of Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. This context highlights Daniel's devotion and the spiritual preparation for the vision he is about to receive.

as I was standing on the bank of the great river
The mention of standing on the bank indicates a position of waiting or expectation. Rivers in biblical times were often places of significant events and revelations. The imagery of standing by a river can symbolize a threshold or a place of transition, suggesting that Daniel is on the verge of receiving a divine message. This setting also emphasizes the solemnity and importance of the vision.

the Tigris
The Tigris River is one of the two major rivers in Mesopotamia, the other being the Euphrates. This region, known as the cradle of civilization, was a center of ancient empires, including Babylon and Persia, where Daniel was in exile. The Tigris is mentioned in Genesis as one of the rivers flowing from Eden, linking it to the biblical narrative of creation. Its mention here situates Daniel's vision within a historical and geographical context that underscores the continuity of God's plan from creation through the history of Israel. The Tigris also represents the vastness and power of the empires of the time, against which God's sovereignty is demonstrated through the visions given to Daniel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Daniel
A prophet and a man of God who is receiving a vision. Known for his faithfulness and wisdom, Daniel is a key figure in the Babylonian and Persian empires.

2. The Tigris River
One of the great rivers of Mesopotamia, significant in the ancient world. It serves as the setting for Daniel's vision, symbolizing a place of revelation and divine encounter.

3. The Twenty-Fourth Day of the First Month
This timing is significant as it falls shortly after the Passover, a period of reflection and remembrance of God's deliverance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Timing in God's Revelations
God's timing is perfect, and His revelations often come at significant moments in our lives. Reflect on how God has spoken to you during pivotal times.

The Significance of Place in Spiritual Encounters
Just as Daniel was by the Tigris, God often uses specific locations to reveal His plans. Consider the places where you have felt God's presence most strongly.

Faithfulness in Waiting
Daniel's vision came after a period of fasting and prayer. Our spiritual disciplines prepare us to receive God's messages.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The setting by the Tigris, a major river in a powerful empire, reminds us of God's sovereignty over all nations and His plans that transcend human history.

The Role of Prophets in God's Plan
Daniel's experience underscores the role of prophets in communicating God's will. Reflect on how God uses people today to speak His truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the timing of Daniel's vision (after Passover) enhance your understanding of God's deliverance in your own life?

2. What significance does the Tigris River hold in the context of Daniel's vision, and how can this inform your understanding of God's presence in specific places?

3. In what ways can you prepare yourself spiritually to receive God's revelations, as Daniel did through fasting and prayer?

4. How does the setting of Daniel's vision by a major river in an ancient empire remind you of God's sovereignty in today's world?

5. Reflect on a time when God used a specific person to communicate His will to you. How does this relate to the role of prophets like Daniel in the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The timing of Daniel's vision is shortly after Passover, connecting to the theme of deliverance and God's faithfulness to His people.

Revelation 1
Similar to Daniel, John receives a vision while in a specific location, highlighting the importance of setting in divine revelations.

Genesis 2
The Tigris River is mentioned as one of the rivers flowing from Eden, symbolizing life and God's provision.