King Yeshua: Son of Man in Daniel
Judea Desert
As a child and teenager, I often scratched my head whenever I read a story in which Jesus referred to Himself as the Son of Man. I mean, wasn’t Jesus God’s Son? Why would He call Himself a Son of Man? It wasn’t to clarify His humanity but something much deeper.
In fact, of all the books in the Old Testament, by using this seemingly innocent “nickname” for Himself, Jesus was explicitly pointing to EXACTLY who He was and is whenever He used it. Beyond the famous lion’s den and fiery furnace narratives, did you know that we can undoubtedly behold King Yeshua—Jesus—in the pages of Daniel? The people around Jesus at the time would have immediately understood what He was doing.
Daniel is often perceived as a book filled with inspiring tales of faithfulness and courage. The connection between Daniel’s "Son of Man" and Jesus’ self-identification is particularly intriguing.
Daniel’s Vision and the Son of Man
In Daniel 7, Daniel experiences an extraordinary vision. He sees a mysterious figure described as “one like a Son of Man” who approaches the Ancient of Days (God Himself) and is given authority, glory, and an everlasting kingdom (Daniel 7:13-14). The phrase "Son of Man" is rich in meaning, referring to a messianic figure who would come with divine authority to establish God's Kingdom.
Who is the Son of Man?
The title “Son of Man” might initially seem puzzling. Why not simply say “Messiah” or “King”? However, this term beautifully emphasizes humanity alongside divinity. The Son of Man was someone who, while undoubtedly possessing divine attributes and authority, was also profoundly connected to humanity.
This hyperlink in Scripture comes vividly alive in the New Testament when Jesus frequently refers to Himself as "the Son of Man." He purposefully links His identity to this prophetic figure in Daniel. In doing so, He affirms that He fulfilled the vision—a divine King who would reign forever.
Daniel’s Faithfulness and Yeshua’s Authority
In Daniel’s day, the faithful prophet confronted mighty empires and rulers who aimed to usurp God's authority, often demanding worship or allegiance meant solely for God. Daniel stood unwaveringly faithful, exemplifying the steadfastness that points to Yeshua’s perfect obedience.
When Daniel learned of King Darius’s decree forbidding prayer to anyone but the king, he responded by continuing his regular practice of prayer toward Jerusalem, faithfully obeying God rather than human authority (Daniel 6:10). His courage wasn’t simply defiance. It was a faithful act rooted deeply in Scripture and trust in God's promises. Daniel’s unwavering commitment and dependence upon God mirror Jesus's obedience and reliance throughout His earthly ministry.
From Daniel’s Prayer to King Yeshua’s Example
Daniel’s prayers illustrate a crucial pattern: they commence with humble praise of God's "hesed" (faithful, loving-kindness), transition through sincere confession of collective sin, and ultimately lead to supplication (Daniel 9:4-16). This approach directs us towards Jesus, who, although sinless, fully identifies with humanity’s sinfulness, interceding for us before the Father with humility and compassion.
As followers of Jesus, Daniel’s example inspires us to engage deeply with Scripture, enriching our prayers and cultivating humility and an awareness of God’s righteousness in contrast to our limitations.
King Yeshua: The True Son of Man
Jesus intentionally adopted the title "Son of Man" to link Himself to the vision of Daniel 7. This was no mere coincidence or casual reference. It was a bold claim to divine authority and eternal kingship, fulfilling Daniel's prophecy in its fullest sense. When Yeshua spoke of Himself as the Son of Man, He revealed His role not only as Israel’s long-awaited Messiah but as the universal King whose dominion would never end.
Moreover, the Gospels reflect Daniel’s narratives, especially in the resurrection imagery. Just as Daniel emerged unharmed from the lion’s den, sealed by the king (Daniel 6:17), so too did Jesus emerge victorious from a tomb sealed by Rome’s authority (Matthew 27:66).
Living in Light of King Yeshua’s Reign
Daniel’s experiences and visions remind us of our call to remain faithful amid trials, anchored in hope because our King, Yeshua, is enthroned forever. Like Daniel, we're invited to practice steadfast obedience to God’s word, knowing that although earthly kingdoms come and go, the kingdom of our King endures forever.
Are you seeing the world through the lens of earthly kingdoms or the eternal reign of King Yeshua? Truly ask yourself this question. The book of Daniel reminds us that God’s kingdom is unshakable no matter how powerful earthly rulers may seem. Yeshua, the Son of Man, reigns forever, and His dominion will never end!
Want to dive deeper? Explore how the Old Testament points to King Yeshua and how His reign brings hope in uncertain times. [Explore Our Bible Studies]
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