Berean Study Bible The End TimesThis phrase refers to the end times, a period often discussed in apocalyptic literature. It connects to the broader eschatological themes found in the Book of Daniel and Revelation, indicating a specific future period of divine intervention and fulfillment of prophecy. 2Ti 3:1 But understand this: In the last days… Michael, the great prince who stands watch over your people, Michael is identified as an archangel in Jude 1:9 and Revelation 12:7. He is depicted as a protector of Israel, suggesting a heavenly guardian role. This aligns with Jewish tradition, where Michael is seen as a defender of God's people. His role emphasizes the spiritual warfare and divine protection over Israel. Jud 1:9 But even the archangel Michael, when he disputed… will rise up. The rising up of Michael signifies a decisive action or intervention. This can be seen as a preparation for the final battle against evil forces, as described in Revelation 12. It indicates a shift in the spiritual realm, where Michael takes an active role in the unfolding events of the end times. Rev 12:7 Then a war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels… There will be a time of distress, This distress is often interpreted as the Great Tribulation, a period of unprecedented suffering and turmoil. It is paralleled in Matthew 24:21, where Jesus speaks of a similar time of great tribulation. This period is characterized by intense persecution and challenges for God's people. Jer 30:7 How awful that day will be! None will be like it!… the likes of which will not have occurred from the beginning of nations until that time. This phrase underscores the unparalleled nature of the coming distress. It echoes the language of Jeremiah 30:7, which describes a time of trouble for Jacob. The emphasis is on the severity and uniqueness of this period in human history. Mat 24:21 For at that time there will be great tribulation,… But at that time your people— "Your people" refers to the Jewish nation, the descendants of Daniel's people. It highlights God's covenant relationship with Israel and His commitment to their ultimate deliverance and restoration. Isa 26:20-21 Go, my people, enter your rooms and shut your doors… everyone whose name is found written in the book— The "book" is often understood as the Book of Life, mentioned in Revelation 20:12 and Philippians 4:3. It symbolizes those who are righteous and have eternal life. This concept of a divine ledger reflects the belief in God's sovereign knowledge and judgment. Exo 32:32-33 “Yet now, if You would only forgive their sin”… will be delivered. Deliverance here signifies salvation and rescue from the tribulation. It points to God's faithfulness in preserving His people through trials. This deliverance is both physical and spiritual, ensuring the ultimate redemption and vindication of the faithful. Psa 34:19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD… And many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, This phrase refers to the resurrection of the dead, a concept that is central to Christian eschatology. The imagery of "sleep" is often used in the Bible to describe death, suggesting a temporary state before awakening to a new reality. The "dust of the earth" recalls Genesis 3:19, where humanity is reminded of its creation from dust and eventual return to it. This resurrection is not universal but involves "many," indicating a selective process. The idea of resurrection is also found in Isaiah 26:19 and is further developed in the New Testament, particularly in 1 Corinthians 15 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16. Isa 26:19 Your dead will live; their bodies will rise.… some to everlasting life, This part of the verse highlights the promise of eternal life for the righteous. The concept of "everlasting life" is a key tenet of Christian belief, emphasizing the eternal reward for those who have faith in God. This promise is echoed in the New Testament, notably in John 3:16, where belief in Jesus Christ is linked to eternal life. The phrase underscores the hope and assurance of salvation and the ultimate victory over death. Jhn 5:24 Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word… but others to shame and everlasting contempt. In contrast to the promise of eternal life, this phrase warns of the fate awaiting the unrighteous. "Shame and everlasting contempt" suggest a state of perpetual disgrace and separation from God. This dual outcome of resurrection is consistent with the biblical theme of divine justice, where individuals are held accountable for their actions. The notion of eternal punishment is further explored in passages like Matthew 25:46 and Revelation 20:15, which describe the final judgment and the consequences for those who reject God. Jer 23:40 And I will bring upon you everlasting shame… Then the wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, This phrase emphasizes the exaltation and glorification of the wise, often understood as those who possess spiritual insight and understanding. In biblical context, wisdom is frequently associated with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10) and the ability to discern God's will. The imagery of shining like the brightness of the heavens suggests a divine radiance and purity, reminiscent of the transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:2) and the glorified state of believers (Philippians 3:21). The heavens, often seen as the realm of God, symbolize the ultimate reward and recognition of the wise in the eschatological future. Mat 13:43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun… and those who lead many to righteousness This part highlights the role of believers in guiding others towards a righteous life, which is in alignment with God's standards. The concept of leading others to righteousness is akin to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), where Jesus instructs His followers to make disciples of all nations. Historically, this reflects the mission of the Jewish people to be a light to the nations (Isaiah 42:6). The emphasis on "many" indicates the expansive impact of their witness and teaching, suggesting a communal and evangelistic responsibility. Isa 53:11 After the anguish of His soul, He will see the light of life… will shine like the stars forever and ever. The comparison to stars signifies eternal glory and honor. Stars, in ancient Near Eastern culture, were often seen as symbols of permanence and guidance. This eternal aspect is reinforced by the phrase "forever and ever," indicating an unending reward. The imagery of stars also connects to the promise given to Abraham about his descendants being as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5), symbolizing the fulfillment of God's covenant. In a prophetic sense, this can be seen as a type of Christ, who is referred to as the "bright Morning Star" (Revelation 22:16), and the ultimate source of righteousness and light. 1Co 15:41 The sun has one degree of splendor, the moon another,… But you, Daniel, shut up these words and seal the book until the time of the end. This directive to Daniel emphasizes the importance and confidentiality of the prophecy he received. In ancient times, sealing a document was a way to preserve its contents and ensure its authenticity. The command to "shut up" and "seal" suggests that the full understanding of these prophecies was not meant for Daniel's time but for a future period. This mirrors the sealing of the scroll in Revelation 5, which only the Lamb, Jesus Christ, is worthy to open. The "time of the end" refers to the eschatological period, a theme consistent throughout the book of Daniel, which often points to the culmination of history and the establishment of God's kingdom. Dan 8:26 The vision of the evenings and the mornings…… Many will roam to and fro, This phrase can be interpreted as a description of increased movement and searching for understanding in the last days. It suggests a time of restlessness and seeking, possibly both physically and intellectually. The imagery of roaming "to and fro" is reminiscent of Amos 8:12, where people search for the word of the Lord but do not find it. This could imply a spiritual searching or a quest for truth and understanding as the end times approach. Amo 8:12 People will stagger from sea to sea and roam… and knowledge will increase.” The increase in knowledge can be seen as both a positive and a negative development. On one hand, it may refer to a greater understanding of God's plans and prophecies as the end times draw near. On the other hand, it could also indicate a surge in secular knowledge and technological advancement, which can lead to both progress and moral challenges. This aligns with 2 Timothy 3:7, where people are "always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth," highlighting the potential for knowledge to be misused or misunderstood without divine wisdom. Hab 2:14 For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory… Then I, Daniel, looked and saw This phrase indicates a personal vision experienced by Daniel, a prophet during the Babylonian exile. Daniel's visions often contain symbolic imagery and prophetic messages. His role as a seer is crucial, as he is given insight into future events, particularly concerning the end times. This vision is part of a larger narrative that includes angelic beings and divine revelations. Dan 10:5 I lifted up my eyes, and behold, there was a certain man… two others standing there, The "two others" likely refer to angelic beings, as angels frequently appear in Daniel's visions to deliver messages or provide explanations. In the context of Daniel 12, these figures may serve as witnesses or messengers of God's plans. Angels are often depicted as standing, symbolizing readiness to serve or deliver God's word. Luk 24:4 While they were puzzling over this, two men… one on this bank of the river The river mentioned is the Tigris, a significant geographical feature in the region. Rivers in biblical literature often symbolize boundaries or transitions, and here it may represent the division between the earthly and the divine. The presence of an angel on this bank suggests a connection to Daniel's immediate context and the earthly realm. Ezk 47:6 “Son of man, do you see this?” he asked.… and one on the opposite bank. The angel on the opposite bank signifies a broader perspective, possibly representing the heavenly realm or future events beyond Daniel's immediate understanding. This positioning of the angels on either side of the river may symbolize the bridging of earthly and divine knowledge, with Daniel positioned to receive insights from both realms. Ezk 47:12 Along both banks of the river, fruit trees… One of them said to the man dressed in linen, The "man dressed in linen" is often interpreted as a heavenly being, possibly an angel or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, known as a theophany. Linen garments are associated with purity and priestly service, as seen in Exodus 28:42 and Leviticus 16:4. This attire signifies holiness and divine authority. The identity of "one of them" is not specified, but it suggests a dialogue among celestial beings or between Daniel and these figures. Dan 10:5-6 I lifted up my eyes, and behold, there was a certain man… who was above the waters of the river, The location above the waters signifies authority and control over chaos, as water often symbolizes disorder in biblical literature. This imagery is reminiscent of Genesis 1:2, where the Spirit of God hovers over the waters. The river, likely the Tigris as mentioned in Daniel 10:4, serves as a geographical marker, grounding the vision in a real-world setting while also symbolizing the flow of time and events. Psa 29:3 The voice of the LORD is over the waters;… “How long until the fulfillment of these wonders?” This question reflects a common biblical theme of seeking understanding of God's timing, as seen in Habakkuk 1:2 and Revelation 6:10. The "wonders" refer to the prophetic events described earlier in Daniel, including the tribulations and the ultimate deliverance of God's people. This inquiry highlights human curiosity and the desire for assurance of God's plan, echoing the disciples' question in Matthew 24:3 about the end times. The question underscores the tension between divine sovereignty and human understanding. Dan 8:13-14 Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one… And the man dressed in linen, The man dressed in linen is often identified as a heavenly being, possibly an angel, due to the description of his attire, which is similar to the priestly garments described in Exodus 28. Linen is associated with purity and holiness, indicating the divine nature of the messenger. This figure is reminiscent of the man in linen seen in Daniel 10:5-6, who is described with a dazzling appearance, suggesting a connection to divine revelation. Dan 10:5-6 I lifted up my eyes, and behold, there was a certain man… who was above the waters of the river, The location above the waters of the river suggests a position of authority and control over chaos, as water often symbolizes chaos in biblical literature. This imagery is similar to the Spirit of God hovering over the waters in Genesis 1:2. The river, likely the Tigris, is a significant geographical feature in the region, emphasizing the importance of the vision's setting. Dan 10:4 On the twenty-fourth day of the first month,… raised his right hand and his left hand toward heaven, Raising both hands toward heaven is a gesture of solemn oath-taking, indicating the seriousness and certainty of the message being delivered. This act of swearing by heaven is a powerful affirmation of the truth of the prophecy, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:40, where God Himself raises His hand to heaven. 1Ti 2:8 Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray… and I heard him swear by Him who lives forever, Swearing by "Him who lives forever" underscores the eternal nature of God, who is the ultimate authority and witness to the oath. This phrase emphasizes God's sovereignty and unchanging nature, as seen in passages like Revelation 10:6, where a similar oath is made by an angel. Rev 10:6 And he swore by Him who lives forever and ever,… saying, “It will be for a time, and times, and half a time. The phrase "a time, and times, and half a time" is a cryptic expression often interpreted as a period of three and a half years. This timeframe is significant in apocalyptic literature, appearing in Daniel 7:25 and Revelation 12:14, symbolizing a period of tribulation and testing for God's people. It reflects the idea of a divinely appointed period of suffering that will ultimately lead to deliverance. Dan 7:25 He will speak out against the Most High and oppress… When the power of the holy people has finally been shattered, The shattering of the power of the holy people refers to a time of intense persecution and suffering for the faithful. This concept is echoed in Daniel 8:24, where the persecution of the saints is described. The breaking of their power signifies a period of testing and purification, aligning with the theme of refining and purifying God's people found throughout scripture. Isa 62:12 And they will be called the Holy People,… all these things will be completed.” The completion of "all these things" points to the fulfillment of God's prophetic plan. This phrase indicates that the trials and tribulations faced by the holy people are part of a larger divine purpose that will culminate in the establishment of God's kingdom. It echoes the assurance found in Daniel 9:24, where the prophecy outlines the ultimate redemption and restoration of God's people. Rev 10:7 But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel… I heard, but I did not understand. Daniel, a prophet during the Babylonian exile, often received visions and messages from God that were complex and symbolic. This phrase reflects the human limitation in comprehending divine mysteries. It echoes similar sentiments found in other prophetic books, such as Ezekiel and Revelation, where the prophets also struggled to grasp the full meaning of their visions. The phrase highlights the distinction between divine knowledge and human understanding, emphasizing the need for divine revelation to interpret God's plans. Dan 8:27 I, Daniel, was exhausted and lay ill for days.… So I asked, “My lord, what will be the outcome of these things?” Daniel's inquiry demonstrates a desire for clarity and understanding of the future events revealed to him. The term "my lord" indicates respect and recognition of the authority of the angelic messenger, likely Gabriel, who had been sent to explain the vision. This question is rooted in the prophetic tradition of seeking insight into God's plans for His people, similar to inquiries made by other prophets like Habakkuk. The phrase points to the eschatological focus of Daniel's visions, which concern the end times and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. It also reflects a common theme in apocalyptic literature, where the faithful seek assurance and understanding of God's ultimate purposes amidst present uncertainties. Mat 24:3 While Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, … “Go on your way, Daniel,” This phrase indicates a directive for Daniel to continue with his life and mission. It suggests a sense of closure for Daniel's immediate concerns about the visions he has received. The instruction to "go on your way" implies trust in God's timing and plan, reflecting a common biblical theme where individuals are encouraged to live faithfully despite not having full understanding of God's purposes. This can be compared to other biblical figures like Abraham, who was called to go to a land he did not know, trusting in God's promise. 1Ki 19:15 Then the LORD said to him, “Go back by the way you came,… he replied, The speaker here is likely the angelic messenger who has been communicating with Daniel throughout the latter chapters of the book. This reflects the common biblical motif of divine messages being delivered through angels, as seen in other instances such as Gabriel's announcements to Mary and Zechariah in the New Testament. The use of an angelic messenger underscores the importance and divine origin of the message. 1Sa 3:10 Then the LORD came and stood there, calling as before,… “for the words are closed up and sealed This phrase indicates that the prophecy Daniel received is not meant to be fully understood or revealed at the present time. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, sealing a document was a way to preserve and protect its contents until the appropriate time for its opening. This concept of sealing is also seen in Revelation 5, where a scroll with seven seals is opened only by the Lamb, symbolizing Christ. The sealing of the words suggests that the full understanding of the prophecy is reserved for a future time, emphasizing God's sovereignty over history. Dan 8:26 The vision of the evenings and the mornings…… until the time of the end. This phrase points to an eschatological focus, referring to the culmination of history as understood in biblical prophecy. The "time of the end" is a recurring theme in apocalyptic literature, including the book of Daniel and Revelation, where it signifies the period when God's ultimate purposes will be fulfilled. This aligns with the Christian belief in the second coming of Christ and the final establishment of God's kingdom. The phrase encourages believers to remain faithful and vigilant, trusting that God's plan will be revealed in His perfect timing. Dan 8:19 and said, “Behold, I will make known to you… Many will be purified, made spotless, and refined, This phrase suggests a process of spiritual cleansing and moral improvement. In biblical context, purification often involves trials and tribulations that test and strengthen faith, akin to the refining of metals. This imagery is consistent with passages like Malachi 3:3, where God is described as a refiner and purifier of silver. The process of being made spotless aligns with New Testament teachings on sanctification, as seen in Ephesians 5:26-27, where the church is presented as a bride without blemish. This purification is not just individual but communal, reflecting the collective sanctification of God's people. Mal 3:2-3 But who can endure the day of His coming?… but the wicked will continue to act wickedly. This highlights the persistent nature of wickedness in the world, despite divine intervention and opportunities for repentance. It echoes the theme of human depravity found throughout Scripture, such as in Genesis 6:5, where humanity's wickedness is described as great on the earth. The persistence of evil is also a reminder of the spiritual battle between good and evil, as seen in Ephesians 6:12. This phrase underscores the biblical teaching that without a transformative encounter with God, human nature remains inclined towards sin. Rev 22:11 Let the unrighteous continue to be unrighteous… None of the wicked will understand, This part of the verse speaks to the spiritual blindness and lack of discernment among those who reject God. It aligns with 1 Corinthians 2:14, which states that the natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him. This lack of understanding is not merely intellectual but spiritual, indicating a heart hardened against divine truth. The inability to comprehend God's ways is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing the need for divine revelation and the Holy Spirit's work to open one's eyes to the truth. Pro 28:5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek… but the wise will understand. In contrast to the wicked, the wise are those who fear the Lord and seek His wisdom, as described in Proverbs 9:10. This understanding is not just intellectual but spiritual, involving insight into God's purposes and plans. The wise are often depicted as those who live righteously and are attuned to God's will, as seen in the parable of the wise and foolish builders in Matthew 7:24-27. This phrase also connects to the eschatological theme in Daniel, where the wise are those who will shine like the brightness of the heavens (Daniel 12:3), indicating their role in God's redemptive plan. Hos 14:9 Whoever is wise, let him understand these things;… And from the time the daily sacrifice is abolished This phrase refers to the cessation of the regular temple sacrifices, a significant event in Jewish religious life. Historically, this occurred during the reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who desecrated the Second Temple around 167 BC. The daily sacrifices were a central part of Jewish worship, as outlined in Exodus 29:38-42. The abolition of these sacrifices symbolizes a severe disruption in the covenant relationship between God and His people. This event is also a foreshadowing of future events, as Jesus refers to a similar occurrence in Matthew 24:15, indicating a future fulfillment in the end times. Dan 8:11-12 It magnified itself, even to the Prince of the host;… and the abomination of desolation set up, The "abomination of desolation" is a term used to describe an idolatrous act that desecrates the holy place. In the historical context, this refers to Antiochus IV setting up an altar to Zeus in the Jewish temple. This act is seen as a direct challenge to God's authority and a profound violation of the sacred space. The phrase is also prophetic, pointing to future events described in the New Testament, particularly in the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24:15) and in the book of Revelation. It serves as a type of ultimate rebellion against God, which will be fully realized in the end times. Dan 11:31 His forces will rise up and desecrate the temple fortress.… there will be 1,290 days. The specific number of 1,290 days is intriguing and has been the subject of much interpretation. It is slightly longer than the 1,260 days (or 42 months) mentioned in other prophetic scriptures such as Revelation 11:3 and 12:6, which are often associated with the period of tribulation. The additional 30 days may suggest a period of transition or cleansing following the abomination. This time frame emphasizes the precision of God's prophetic timeline and His sovereignty over historical events. It also encourages believers to remain faithful and patient, trusting in God's ultimate plan and timing. Rev 11:2-3 But exclude the courtyard outside the temple.… Blessed is he who waits This phrase emphasizes the virtue of patience and endurance. In the biblical context, waiting often implies trusting in God's timing and promises. The concept of being "blessed" is reminiscent of the Beatitudes in Matthew 5, where Jesus pronounces blessings on those who exhibit certain godly characteristics. The idea of waiting is also seen in Isaiah 40:31, where those who wait on the Lord renew their strength. This waiting is not passive but involves active faith and perseverance through trials. Isa 30:18 Therefore the LORD longs to be gracious to you;… and reaches the end The phrase suggests a journey or a period of trial that must be endured. In the context of Daniel, this likely refers to a time of tribulation or testing. The end signifies the completion of a prophetic timeline, which is a common theme in apocalyptic literature. This echoes the perseverance of the saints mentioned in Revelation 14:12, where endurance is linked to keeping faith in Jesus. Mat 24:13 But the one who perseveres to the end will be saved. of the 1,335 days. The specific number of days is part of a prophetic timeline that has intrigued scholars and theologians. It follows the mention of 1,290 days in the previous verse, suggesting a period of waiting beyond a significant event. Historically, this has been interpreted in various ways, including literal and symbolic understandings. Some see it as a period of purification or a time leading to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. The number may also connect to the broader eschatological themes in Daniel, where precise timeframes are used to convey God's sovereign control over history. Dan 8:26 The vision of the evenings and the mornings…… But as for you, go on your way until the end. This phrase is a directive given to Daniel, emphasizing the continuation of his life and duties until his earthly journey concludes. It reflects the biblical theme of perseverance and faithfulness, as seen in passages like 2 Timothy 4:7, where Paul speaks of finishing the race. The phrase suggests a personal journey, indicating that Daniel's role in God's plan is complete, and he is to continue living faithfully. The "end" can be interpreted as the end of his life or the culmination of the age, a common theme in apocalyptic literature. Mat 24:13 But the one who perseveres to the end will be saved. You will rest, The promise of rest is a comforting assurance of peace after death, aligning with the biblical concept of believers entering into God's rest (Hebrews 4:9-10). In the Old Testament, rest often signifies a cessation from labor and struggle, as seen in the Sabbath rest (Exodus 20:8-11). For Daniel, this rest implies a peaceful transition from his earthly life to a state of awaiting resurrection, reflecting the hope of eternal life. Rev 14:13 And I heard a voice from heaven telling me to write… and then you will arise This phrase points to the resurrection, a core tenet of Christian eschatology. The idea of rising from the dead is echoed in passages like 1 Corinthians 15:52, where Paul speaks of the resurrection at the last trumpet. Daniel's personal resurrection is a precursor to the general resurrection of the dead, a theme that is further developed in the New Testament. It underscores the belief in life after death and the ultimate victory over mortality. Job 19:25-27 But I know that my Redeemer lives… to your inheritance The concept of inheritance is deeply rooted in biblical tradition, often referring to the Promised Land for Israel (Joshua 1:6) and, in a broader sense, the eternal inheritance promised to believers (1 Peter 1:4). For Daniel, this inheritance signifies his share in the eternal kingdom of God, a reward for his faithfulness. It reflects the assurance of a future hope and the fulfillment of God's promises. Heb 9:15 Therefore Christ is the mediator of a new covenant,… at the end of the days.” This phrase refers to the eschatological culmination of history, often associated with the Day of the Lord, a time of judgment and restoration (Joel 2:31). It signifies the final establishment of God's kingdom and the fulfillment of prophetic visions. In the context of Daniel, it points to the ultimate resolution of the apocalyptic events described earlier in the book, aligning with the Christian hope of Christ's return and the renewal of all things (Revelation 21:1-4). Gen 49:1 Then Jacob called for his sons and said,… This is a draft of the Berean Study Bible. Please send all comments and recommendations to bereanstudybible@aol.com. Bible Hub |
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