Daniel 8:16 Meaning and Explanation
“And I heard a man’s voice between the banks of Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this man to understand the vision.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A voice from the river calls out, commanding Gabriel to make Daniel understand the vision.
What Does Daniel 8:16 Mean?
A voice sounds between the banks of the Ulai and calls the interpreter by name: Gabriel, charged to make Daniel understand. This is the first place in Scripture where an angel is named, and the same Gabriel will later announce the births of John and of Jesus. The messenger who unfolds this vision of kingdoms is the one who will herald the coming of the King.
That understanding is given by command, 'make this man to understand,' shows that revelation is God's gift, not human achievement. Daniel sought, but the meaning is bestowed from above. There is comfort in seeing heaven so attentive: a voice calls, a messenger is sent, and a single faithful man is taught. The God who governs empires also stoops to instruct His servant by name, and the messenger of this vision is the herald of the gospel to come.
Daniel 8:16 in the Original Language
Gabriel (גַּבְרִיאֵל), 'man of God' or 'God is my strength' -- the angelic messenger who interprets and announces God's purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Daniel 8:16
What does Daniel 8:16 mean?
A voice from the river calls out, commanding Gabriel to make Daniel understand the vision.