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| Icon of Gabriel (c. 1387-1395 CE) |
Although there has been some question within Judaism as to whether Daniel was a prophet (since his messages were more for the future than for the present), there is little question as to whether he interpreted divine messages. The Book of Daniel (which is included in the Writings section rather than the Prophets section of the Tanakh) tells of two encounters that Daniel had with Archangel Gabriel. In Daniel 8:15-27 and in Daniel 9:20-25, Gabriel comes to assist Daniel with the interpretation of intensely complex messages (messages which are still being grappled with today).
In Islam, Daniel is regarded as a prophet. However, Islam’s overall connection with Gabriel is said to come directly through Muhammad and the Qur’an. Al-Hadith commentary of Mishkat-ul-Masabih IV, pages 356-357, tells of the angel’s visit to Muhammad in the Cave of Hira. According to harvardhouse.com: Muslims believe that each word in the Qur’an was given to Muhammad through the Archangel Gabriel.
In the Christian Annunciation, Archangel Gabriel plays a dual role. In Luke 1:5-23, Gabriel arrives to bring the childless elderly couple, Elizabeth and Zechariah, some astonishing news. They are to soon have a child named John, who “will be great in the sight of the Lord.” This son would come to be known as John the Baptist. Then, in the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, Gabriel appeared again – but this time to Mary. Gabriel said to her: Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.
http://www.jewfaq.org/prophet.htm
http://www.harvardhouse.com/Setup_Islam_and_Christianity.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gabriel
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annunciation
Copyright March 26, 2011 by Linda Van Slyke All Rights Reserved
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