Daniel 10:13–21

¹³But the prince of the kingdom of Persia opposed me twenty-one days. So Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, and I left him there with the prince of the kingdom of Persia^{i* 14}and have come to help you understand what is to happen to your people at the end of days. For there is a further vision for those days.”^*

¹⁵While he was speaking these words to me, I turned my face toward the ground and was speechless.^{* 16}Then one in human form touched my lips, and I opened my mouth to speak and said to the one who stood before me, “My lord, because of the vision such pains have come upon me that I retain no strength.^{* 17}How can my lord’s servant talk with my lord? For I am exhausted;^j no strength remains in me, and no breath is left in me.”

¹⁸Again one in human form touched me and strengthened me. ¹⁹He said, “Do not fear, greatly beloved; you are safe. Be strong and courageous!” When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, “Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me.”^{* 20}Then he said, “Do you know why I have come to you? Now I must return to fight against the prince of Persia, and when I am through with him, the prince of Greece will come. ²¹But I am to tell you what is inscribed in the book of truth. There is no one with me who contends against these princes except Michael, your prince.^*