Daniel 10:1-9

1In the third year that King Cyrus ruled Persia, God gave a message to Daniel. (Daniel's other name was Belteshazzar.) The message was true. It was about a great war. Daniel had a vision which helped him to understand the message.

2At that time I, Daniel, was very sad for three weeks.

3I did not eat any special food. I ate no meat and I drank no wine. I did not put any sweet oil on my skin or my hair until the three weeks had finished.

4On the 24th day of the first month, I was standing beside the great Tigris river.

5I looked up. I saw a man who was wearing good linen clothes. He also wore a belt made of pure gold.

6His body was bright like a jewel. His face shone like lightning. His eyes were like flames of fire. His arms and his feet shone like bright bronze. When he spoke, his voice was very loud, like the sound of many people's voices.

7Only I, Daniel, saw this vision. The people who were with me did not see anything. But they became very afraid. They ran away to hide themselves.

8So I was there alone to see this great vision. All my strength disappeared. My face became very white. I was very weak.

9I listened to the man's voice. When I heard him, I fell down, with my face on the ground. I was completely asleep.