דניאל, פרק ז׳, פסוק ט״ז

Amidst a storm of complex prophetic visions filled with unusual beasts and heavenly figures, Daniel seeks clarity. The entire experience unfolds within the boundaries of a dream [אבן עזרא], where Daniel attempts to make sense of the shifting symbols before him. To find answers, he approaches one of the celestial beings present in the vision. The primary approach among commentators is that these figures are ministering angels positioned to serve before God. They are specifically described as standing because angels lack knee joints and the physical ability to sit, making their permanent state one of upright service [רש״י, מצודת דוד].

Upon reaching the angel, Daniel asks for the exact truth behind the events he just witnessed. He wants to understand the meaning of the strange creatures and figures that rise, appear, and vanish before his eyes [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The goal of his request is to decode these symbols, which represent four great empires destined to rule the world. The angel responds by revealing that these beasts symbolize different kingdoms that will rise and fall in succession. The explanation focuses heavily on the final empire, which will oppress Israel and issue harsh decrees against the people. Ultimately, however, this final kingdom will fall, and eternal rule will be handed over to the holy ones of God [אבן עזרא].

The interaction concludes with the angel providing a complete resolution to the mystery. The narrative uses a repetitive phrasing to describe how the angel both spoke and made the meaning known. This double expression is simply a stylistic repetition, using different words to ensure the explanation is entirely clear and fully understood [מצודת דוד].