Daniel 10:3

pleasant bread lit. bread of desirablenesses(Daniel 9:23). Daniel did not fast absolutely; he only abstained from -pleasant" food. Fleshand winewould, in the East, not be indulged in except at a festivity, or on other special occasions (e.g. Genesis 27:25; 1 Samuel 25:11 [where LXX. followed by many moderns, has winefor water; Isaiah 22:13).

neither did I anoint myself at all The practice of anointing the body with oil or other unguents was common among the Jews, as among other ancient nations: it soothed and refreshed the skin, and was a protection against heat. It was customary after washing, especially in anticipation of a visit, a feast, &c. (Ruth 3:3); and so to be anointed was a mark of contentment and joy (Isaiah 61:3; Ecclesiastes 9:8; cf. Matthew 6:17), while, conversely, during mourning it was usual not to anoint oneself (2 Samuel 14:2; cf. 2 Samuel 12:20).

three whole weeks The same expression which in Daniel 10:2 is rendered full weeks.