But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; but, behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me because I remained there with the kings of Persia.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 13. The prince, and so forth That is, the angel guardian of Persia: who, according to his office, seeking the spiritual good of the Persians, was desirous that many of the Jews should remain among them. Challoner.—S. Jerom, and so forth explain it of the angel guardian. Worthington.—Each country has an archangel over it, as individuals have an angel. Others assert that this was an evil angel; for how could a good one oppose so long the will of God? Yet this argument may be retorted, as evil spirits themselves must comply. It seems, therefore, that Cyrus was exhorted by the good angels to invade the Chaldeans, and thus to liberate God’s people. He was afraid of the hazardous attempt, and free-will may resist the inspirations of God.—One, or “prince.” Calmet.—Michael, and the guardian of Daniel, joined their prayers for the liberation of the Jews. verse 20. Worthington.