THEOSISTheodoret of Cyrus
The Prophet observed, as he reported, that when I found myself once more in a state of profound struggle, it felt as if a divine hand had touched my lips, imparting strength to my voice. In that moment, I expressed to him that merely seeing him had left me utterly powerless, filling my spirit with turmoil and disarraying my previously coherent thoughts. Dread had wearied me greatly, and I found myself unable to breathe as was my usual practice. Thus, how could I possibly comprehend what you have conveyed or provide an appropriate response? However, one should not presume that the being who appeared to Daniel was the Lord Himself, even though Daniel referred to him as Lord.
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At the conclusion of his vision, this figure raised his hands toward heaven, affirming, ‘swore by the Lord that liveth’ (Dan. 12:7), thereby acknowledging his servitude with respect. Hence, the Prophet addresses him as Lord, not in the sense of divinity, but with appropriate respect, as we often address esteemed individuals in conversation. Similarly, Abraham, upon encountering angels in human form, addressed them as men saying, ‘Lord, if I have found grace before Thee, do not make Thy servant a miniature’ (Gen. 18:3). Likewise, Rebekah spoke to Abraham's household, saying, ‘Drink, my lord, and I will pour for your camel’ (Gen. 21:18, 19). Thus, in this context, the title ‘Lord’ does not denote the Sovereign of all. This will become clearer as we proceed, but for now, let us continue in an orderly manner.