Daniel 12:2

And many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt.

Study Bible

And many who sleep in the dust of the earth
This phrase uses the metaphor of "sleep" to describe death, a common biblical motif that suggests a temporary state before awakening. The Hebrew word for "sleep" here is "יָשֵׁן" (yashen), indicating a peaceful rest, which contrasts with the finality of death. "Dust of the earth" recalls Genesis 3:19, where humanity is reminded of its creation from dust and its return to it in death. This phrase emphasizes the mortality and humble origins of humanity, setting the stage for the miraculous nature of resurrection.

will awake
The Hebrew word "יָקִיצוּ" (yaqitsu) means "to awake" or "to arise," suggesting a return to consciousness and life. This awakening is not merely a return to earthly life but a transition to a new, eternal state. The concept of resurrection is pivotal in Jewish eschatology and is further developed in Christian theology, where it is seen as a precursor to the final judgment and eternal life.

some to everlasting life
The phrase "everlasting life" is translated from the Hebrew "חַיֵּי עוֹלָם" (chayyei olam), which signifies a life that transcends temporal existence. This is one of the earliest explicit references to eternal life in the Old Testament, pointing to a future hope that is fully realized in the New Testament through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It underscores the promise of eternal communion with God for the righteous.

but others to shame
The word "shame" in Hebrew is "חֶרְפָּה" (cherpah), which conveys disgrace and dishonor. This indicates a state of being that is the opposite of the honor and glory associated with everlasting life. It reflects the consequences of a life lived in opposition to God's will, highlighting the moral and spiritual dimensions of the resurrection.

and everlasting contempt
"Everlasting contempt" is derived from the Hebrew "דֵּרָאוֹן עוֹלָם" (deraon olam), where "deraon" suggests abhorrence or scorn. This phrase emphasizes the eternal nature of the consequences faced by those who reject God. The use of "everlasting" for both life and contempt underscores the permanence of the final judgment, reinforcing the gravity of one's choices in life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Daniel
A prophet in the Old Testament, known for his faithfulness to God and his ability to interpret dreams and visions. He is the author of the Book of Daniel, which includes prophecies about the end times.

2. The Dust of the Earth
A metaphorical expression referring to the grave or the state of death. It signifies the physical state of those who have died.

3. Resurrection
The event described in this verse where the dead will rise. This is a key eschatological event in Christian theology, indicating a future time when all will be judged.

4. Everlasting Life
The eternal state of those who are righteous and have faith in God. It is a promise of eternal communion with God.

5. Shame and Everlasting Contempt
The eternal state of those who are unrighteous and have rejected God. It signifies eternal separation from God and the consequences of sin.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Resurrection
The resurrection is a foundational belief in Christianity, affirming that life continues beyond physical death.

Eternal Destinies
This verse highlights the reality of two eternal destinies: everlasting life and everlasting contempt. It underscores the importance of faith and righteousness.

Call to Righteous Living
Knowing the outcomes of resurrection should motivate believers to live righteously and share the gospel with others.

Hope in Christ
For believers, the promise of everlasting life provides hope and assurance, encouraging perseverance in faith.

Urgency of the Gospel
The reality of eternal destinies emphasizes the urgency of evangelism and discipleship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of resurrection in Daniel 12:2 influence your understanding of life after death?

2. In what ways does the concept of "everlasting life" motivate you to live out your faith daily?

3. How can the reality of "shame and everlasting contempt" impact your approach to sharing the gospel with others?

4. What connections do you see between Daniel 12:2 and Jesus' teachings on resurrection in the New Testament?

5. How can the hope of resurrection and eternal life provide comfort in times of suffering or loss?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 5:28-29
Jesus speaks of a time when all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come out, some to life and others to judgment, echoing the resurrection theme in Daniel 12:2.

1 Corinthians 15:52
Paul describes the resurrection at the last trumpet, where the dead will be raised imperishable, connecting to the hope of everlasting life.

Revelation 20:12-15
The final judgment scene where the dead are judged according to their deeds, aligning with the outcomes of everlasting life or contempt.