◄ Daniel 12 ►
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Summary The End Times In Daniel 12, we are reminded that no matter how difficult or tumultuous our circumstances may be, God’s protection and promises remain constant. We are also called to seek wisdom and understanding in the face of mystery, reminding us that, ultimately, our quest for knowledge is a divine journey. Verses 1-4: The Time of Distress and the Promise of Resurrection These verses describe a time of unparalleled distress that will occur at the end of days. Yet, in this time of strife, Michael, the great prince, will stand to protect Daniel's people. It also mentions a resurrection, where those who sleep in the dust of the earth will awaken, some to everlasting life and others to everlasting contempt. Verses 5-7: The Sealed Prophecy Here, Daniel sees two beings, one on each side of the river, asking the man clothed in linen about when the astonishing events will occur. The man, raising his hands to the heavens, swears by the eternal God that it would be for a time, times, and half a time, and when the power of the holy people has been shattered, all these events will be completed. Verses 8-13: The Duration of the End Times Daniel, not understanding, asks for clarification. The man, however, tells him that the words are sealed until the time of the end. He describes that the wicked will not understand, but the wise will, and puts forth times and durations to signify the end, blessing those who wait and reach the 1335 days. Finally, Daniel is told to go his way until the end, for he will rest and then rise again for his allotted inheritance at the end of days. Daniel 12, the concluding chapter of the Book of Daniel, continues and finalizes the long range prophecy given to Daniel by an angel. In this captivating finale, Daniel receives revelations of the end times, including a period of unmatched distress, the promise of resurrection and judgment, and the sealing of these prophecies until the end time. Teaching Points The Time of Distress Daniel 12:1 speaks of a time of distress such as never has occurred since the beginning of nations until then. This highlights the unprecedented nature of the tribulation period, emphasizing the severity and global impact of the events to come. Deliverance of God's People The same verse assures us that at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. This promise of deliverance underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant people. Resurrection and Judgment Verse 2 reveals the reality of resurrection, stating, Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt. This points to the final judgment and the eternal destinies of humanity. Wisdom and Righteousness Verse 3 highlights the reward for those who lead others to righteousness: Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. This emphasizes the eternal value of living a life that honors God and influences others positively. Sealed Prophecy In verse 4, Daniel is instructed to close up and seal the words of the scroll until the time of the end. This indicates that the full understanding of these prophecies is reserved for the end times, encouraging us to trust in God's timing and revelation. Practical Applications Prepare Spiritually In light of the coming tribulation, believers are called to strengthen their faith and remain steadfast in their walk with God. Share the Gospel Understanding the eternal consequences of the resurrection and judgment should motivate us to share the message of salvation with others. Pursue Righteousness Strive to live a life that reflects God's righteousness, knowing that it has eternal significance and impact. Trust in God's Sovereignty Even when the future seems uncertain, trust that God is in control and His plans will ultimately prevail. People 1. Michael Description: Michael is described as "the great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people" (Daniel 12:1). In the Hebrew text, Michael is referred to as "מִיכָאֵל" (Mikha'el), which means "Who is like God?" He is considered an archangel and a protector of Israel, playing a significant role in spiritual warfare. 2. The Man Clothed in Linen Description: This figure appears in Daniel 12:6-7, where he is seen standing above the waters of the river. He raises his hands to heaven and swears by Him who lives forever. The identity of this man is often debated, but he is generally seen as a heavenly being or angelic figure, possibly the same as the one described in Daniel 10:5-6. 3. Daniel Description: Daniel is the recipient of the vision and the one who records the events in the book. In Daniel 12:4, he is instructed to "shut up the words and seal the book until the time of the end." Daniel, whose name in Hebrew is "דָּנִיֵּאל" (Daniyyel), meaning "God is my judge," is a prophet and a key figure throughout the book. Places 1. The Time of Distress Daniel 12:1 refers to a "time of distress such as never has occurred since nations came into being until that time." This is often interpreted as a period of great tribulation, which some conservative Christians associate with the end times. 2. The Resurrection Daniel 12:2 speaks of a resurrection where "many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt." This is seen as a reference to the final resurrection and judgment. 3. The Sealed Book In Daniel 12:4, Daniel is instructed to "shut up the words and seal the book until the time of the end." This suggests that the full understanding of these prophecies is reserved for a future time. 4. The Time, Times, and Half a Time Daniel 12:7 mentions a period described as "a time, times, and half a time," which is often interpreted as a symbolic timeframe related to the end times. 5. The Wise and the Wicked Daniel 12:10 contrasts the wise, who will understand, with the wicked, who will continue in their wickedness. This highlights the moral and spiritual division that will occur in the end times. While Daniel 12 does not list specific places, it is rich in symbolic and prophetic language that has been the subject of much interpretation and discussion within conservative Christian theology. Events 1. The Rise of Michael "At that time Michael, the great prince who stands watch over your people, will rise up." (Daniel 12:1) Michael, identified as a "great prince," is understood to be an archangel who protects Israel. The Hebrew word for "prince" is "שַׂר" (sar), indicating a leader or chief. 2. A Time of Distress "There will be a time of distress such as never has occurred since the beginning of nations until then." (Daniel 12:1) This period of unprecedented trouble is often associated with the Great Tribulation. The Hebrew word for "distress" is "צָרָה" (tsarah), meaning trouble or affliction. 3. Deliverance of the People "But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered." (Daniel 12:1) Deliverance is promised to those whose names are in the "book," often interpreted as the Book of Life. The Hebrew word for "book" is "סֵפֶר" (sefer). 4. Resurrection of the Dead "And many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt." (Daniel 12:2) This event describes a resurrection, with outcomes of eternal life or contempt. The Hebrew word for "awake" is "יָקִיצוּ" (yaqitsu), meaning to arise or awaken. 5. The Reward of the Wise "Then the wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever." (Daniel 12:3) The wise and righteous are promised eternal glory. The Hebrew word for "wise" is "מַשְׂכִּילִים" (maskilim), indicating those with insight or understanding. 6. Sealing of the Words "But you, Daniel, shut up these words and seal the book until the time of the end. Many will roam to and fro, and knowledge will increase." (Daniel 12:4) Daniel is instructed to seal the prophecy, indicating its future relevance. The Hebrew word for "seal" is "חָתַם" (chatham), meaning to close or secure. 7. The Time of the End "Then I, Daniel, looked and saw two others standing there, one on this bank of the river and one on the opposite bank." (Daniel 12:5) This scene sets the stage for further revelation about the end times. The Hebrew word for "end" is "קֵץ" (qets), meaning conclusion or termination. 8. The Duration of the Tribulation "It will be for a time, times, and half a time. When the power of the holy people has been shattered, all these things will be completed." (Daniel 12:7) This cryptic phrase is often interpreted as three and a half years. The Hebrew word for "time" is "מוֹעֵד" (moed), meaning an appointed time or season. 9. The Purification of the People "Many will be purified, made spotless, and refined, but the wicked will continue to act wickedly. None of the wicked will understand, but the wise will understand." (Daniel 12:10) A process of purification and understanding is described for the righteous. The Hebrew word for "purified" is "יִתְבָּרְרוּ" (yitbareru), meaning to be cleansed or clarified. 10. The Abomination of Desolation "From the time the daily sacrifice is abolished and the abomination of desolation is set up, there will be 1,290 days." (Daniel 12:11) This event marks a significant prophetic timeline. The Hebrew word for "abomination" is "שִׁקּוּץ" (shiquts), meaning something detestable or idolatrous. 11. Blessing for the Patient "Blessed is he who waits and reaches the end of the 1,335 days." (Daniel 12:12) A blessing is pronounced on those who endure beyond the specified period. The Hebrew word for "blessed" is "אַשְׁרֵי" (ashrei), meaning happy or fortunate. 12. Daniel's Rest and Reward "But as for you, go on your way until the end. You will rest, and at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance." (Daniel 12:13) Daniel is promised rest and a future resurrection. The Hebrew word for "rest" is "תָּנוּחַ" (tanuach), meaning to repose or settle down. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 24:21 Jesus speaks of a great tribulation, echoing the distress mentioned in Daniel 12:1. Revelation 20:12-15 This passage describes the final judgment, paralleling the resurrection and judgment in Daniel 12:2. Philippians 2:15 Paul encourages believers to shine like stars in the universe, similar to the promise in Daniel 12:3. Isaiah 26:19 This verse also speaks of the resurrection, affirming the hope of life after death. Prayer Points Pray for Strength and Endurance Ask God to equip you with the strength to endure trials and remain faithful in your walk with Him. Pray for Boldness in Evangelism Seek God's guidance and courage to share the gospel with those around you. Pray for Wisdom and Righteousness Request God's wisdom to live a life that honors Him and leads others to righteousness. Pray for Trust in God's Plan Ask for a heart that trusts in God's sovereignty and timing, even when the future seems uncertain. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Daniel 12 relate to our understanding of the end times? 2. What can we learn about God’s character from the events prophesied in this chapter? 3. Discuss the significance of the resurrection mentioned in verses 1-3. How does this impact your personal faith? 4. How does the sealing of the prophecy in verses 4 and 9 impact your understanding of God's plan? 5. In what ways can we see the theme of wisdom and understanding developed throughout this chapter? 6. How does the mention of "time, times and half a time" contribute to the apocalyptic imagery in the book of Daniel? 7. Who is the figure "clothed in linen" and what is his role in this chapter? 8. What does the final blessing to those who wait and reach the 1335 days signify? 9. How does the promise given to Daniel in the final verse comfort and encourage us in our present day living? 10. How might you react if you were in Daniel's situation, not fully understanding the vision you were given? 11. How do the themes explored in Daniel 12 resonate with other prophetic writings in the Bible? 12. How can we use the teachings in Daniel 12 to navigate difficult times in our lives? 13. How does the portrayal of 'everlasting life' and 'everlasting contempt' influence your understanding of eternal life and judgment? 14. What does the sealing of the words until the end times imply about the nature of divine wisdom and our access to it? 15. What do we learn from the conversation between the man in linen and the two beings by the river? 16. How does Daniel's acceptance of the vision's mystery model faith and humility for us today? 17. What does the chapter imply about the relationship between wisdom and righteousness? 18. How does the concept of waiting play a role in our spiritual lives based on Daniel 12? 19. In the current state of world affairs, how can we apply the prophetic teachings in Daniel 12? 20. How does Daniel 12 encourage you personally in your faith journey, and how can you use its teachings to encourage others? Topics 1. The Time of Distress Daniel 12:1 describes a period of unprecedented trouble: "At that time Michael, the great prince who stands watch over your people, will rise up. There will be a time of distress such as never has occurred since the beginning of nations until then." The Hebrew word for "distress" (צָרָה, tsarah) indicates a time of great trouble or tribulation. 2. The Deliverance of God's People The same verse promises deliverance: "But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered." This refers to the salvation of those whose names are in the "book," often understood as the Book of Life. 3. The Resurrection of the Dead Daniel 12:2 speaks of a resurrection: "And many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt." The Hebrew word for "awake" (יָקִיצוּ, yaqitsu) suggests a literal resurrection from death. 4. The Reward of the Righteous Verse 3 highlights the reward for the wise and righteous: "Then the wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever." The imagery of shining like stars indicates eternal glory and honor. 5. The Sealing of the Prophecy Daniel 12:4 instructs Daniel to seal the words: "But you, Daniel, shut up these words and seal the book until the time of the end. Many will roam to and fro, and knowledge will increase." The sealing (חָתַם, chatam) signifies preserving the prophecy for future understanding. 6. The Duration of the End Times Verses 5-7 discuss the duration of the end times: "It will be for a time, times, and half a time. When the power of the holy people has been shattered, all these things will be completed." This cryptic period is often interpreted as three and a half years. 7. The Purification of the Saints Daniel 12:10 speaks of purification: "Many will be purified, made spotless, and refined, but the wicked will continue to act wickedly. None of the wicked will understand, but the wise will understand." The process of purification (צָרַף, tsaraph) involves spiritual refinement. 8. The Abomination of Desolation Verse 11 mentions a significant event: "And from the time the daily sacrifice is abolished and the abomination of desolation is set up, there will be 1,290 days." This refers to a desecration event, with "abomination" (שִׁקּוּץ, shiqquts) indicating something detestable. 9. The Blessedness of Perseverance Daniel 12:12 offers a blessing: "Blessed is he who waits and reaches the end of the 1,335 days." This suggests a call to perseverance and faithfulness through trials. 10. The Promise of Rest and Reward The chapter concludes with a promise to Daniel in verse 13: "But as for you, go on your way until the end. You will rest, and at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance." This assures Daniel of his future resurrection and reward. Themes 1. The Time of Distress Daniel 12:1 speaks of "a time of distress such as never has occurred since the beginning of nations until then." This theme highlights the unprecedented tribulation that will occur at the end times. The Hebrew word for "distress" (צָרָה, tsarah) indicates a period of great trouble and adversity. 2. The Deliverance of God's People The same verse, Daniel 12:1, also promises deliverance for "everyone whose name is found written in the book." This theme emphasizes God's protection and salvation for His faithful followers during the end times, reflecting the concept of divine election and assurance. 3. The Resurrection of the Dead Daniel 12:2 states, "And many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt." This theme underscores the belief in bodily resurrection, a foundational doctrine in Christian eschatology. The Hebrew word for "awake" (יָקִיצוּ, yaqitsu) suggests a literal rising from the dead. 4. The Reward of the Righteous In Daniel 12:3, it is written, "Then the wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever." This theme highlights the eternal reward and glory awaiting the righteous, emphasizing the value of wisdom and evangelism. 5. The Sealing of the Prophecy Daniel 12:4 instructs, "But you, Daniel, shut up these words and seal the book until the time of the end." This theme reflects the idea that certain prophetic revelations are reserved for future understanding, indicating the progressive unfolding of God's plan. 6. The Duration of the End Times Daniel 12:7 mentions "a time, times, and half a time," referring to a specific period during the end times. This theme involves the mysterious and symbolic nature of prophetic timelines, often interpreted as three and a half years, reflecting a period of trial and tribulation. 7. The Purification of the Saints Daniel 12:10 states, "Many will be purified, made spotless, and refined, but the wicked will continue to act wickedly." This theme emphasizes the process of sanctification for believers, contrasting the moral transformation of the righteous with the persistent rebellion of the wicked. 8. The Mystery of the End Finally, Daniel 12:13 concludes with a personal promise to Daniel: "But as for you, go your way till the end. You will rest, and at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance." This theme encapsulates the assurance of personal resurrection and reward, while also acknowledging the mystery and certainty of God's ultimate plan. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions