Old Testament
Daniel 7:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"In my night visions, I saw someone like a Son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days, and they brought him into his presence.
Compare translations
I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.
What Daniel 7:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In a vivid dream, Daniel sees a figure resembling a human, often referred to as the 'Son of Man.' This figure comes riding on clouds, symbolizing authority and divine presence. He approaches the 'Ancient of Days,' a title representing God, indicating a significant meeting. This moment highlights the connection between humanity and the divine. The imagery of clouds suggests majesty and power, emphasizing the importance of this figure. The scene captures a pivotal moment in which this figure is honored and brought into God's presence, signifying a role of leadership and judgment. This vision points to hope and the promise of a future where justice prevails. It invites us to reflect on our own relationship with the divine and the importance of seeking guidance and wisdom from a higher power. Daniel's vision serves as a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles; there is a greater purpose at work in our lives and the world around us. Understanding this can inspire us to live with intention and faith.
How to apply Daniel 7:13 to your life
Reflect on your own life and consider how you can seek guidance from a higher power. Embrace the idea that you are part of a larger story. Allow this understanding to inspire you to act with purpose and integrity in your daily choices. Trust that there is a plan for your life, even in challenging times. Stay open to the possibilities that faith can bring to your journey.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Four Beasts and the Ancient of Days (Daniel 7:1–28)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Daniel 7:13
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Daniel 7:13
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Daniel
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 'Son of Man' mean in Daniel 7:13?
In Daniel 7:13, 'Son of Man' refers to a figure that embodies both humanity and divinity. This title signifies a representative of the people who is granted authority and power by God, often interpreted as a messianic figure. The imagery suggests a connection between God and humanity, highlighting the role of this figure in bringing justice and hope.
What is the significance of the 'Ancient of Days'?
The 'Ancient of Days' in Daniel 7:13 symbolizes God, representing eternal wisdom, authority, and sovereignty. This title emphasizes God's timeless nature and His role as the ultimate judge. The meeting between the 'Son of Man' and the 'Ancient of Days' signifies a divine appointment, where the Son of Man is honored and given authority, reinforcing the theme of divine justice.
How does this vision relate to hope and justice?
Daniel's vision in 7:13 is a powerful symbol of hope and justice. It portrays a future where divine authority prevails, and righteousness is restored. The 'Son of Man' coming with clouds signifies the promise of God's intervention in human affairs, assuring believers that justice will ultimately triumph over injustice. This vision encourages individuals to maintain faith during difficult times, trusting in a greater plan.
What can we learn from Daniel 7:13 about our relationship with God?
Daniel 7:13 invites us to reflect on our relationship with God by recognizing His authority and our need for guidance. The vision emphasizes that we are part of a larger divine narrative, encouraging us to seek wisdom and direction from God. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that there is a purpose behind our experiences, inspiring us to live with intention and faith.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.