Daniel 12: Unveiling the Prophecy of Resurrection and Final Judgment

✨ Executive Summary ✨

Daniel 12, a pivotal chapter in prophetic literature, unveils the dramatic events surrounding the end times, focusing on the archangel Michael’s intervention, a period of unprecedented tribulation, and the glorious resurrection of the dead. This chapter, deeply rooted in Jewish apocalyptic tradition and embraced by Christian eschatology, offers profound insights into God’s ultimate triumph over evil and the eternal destiny of humanity. We delve into the significance of the “time of trouble,” explore the symbolism of the sealed book, and examine the promise of resurrection, drawing upon Coptic Orthodox tradition, Patristic interpretations, and relevant scriptural connections to illuminate the spiritual truths contained within. Ultimately, Daniel 12 offers hope amidst chaos, reminding us of God’s unwavering faithfulness and the promise of eternal life for those who remain steadfast in their faith. This intricate prophecy encourages us to live with discernment, courage, and unwavering hope in the face of future uncertainties. This commentary will help unlock the mysteries of resurrection and final judgment found in Daniel 12.

Daniel 12 serves as a powerful conclusion to the Book of Daniel, shifting from historical narratives and symbolic visions to a direct prophecy of the end times. This chapter bridges the Old and New Testaments, providing a foundation for Christian eschatology and the understanding of resurrection, judgment, and eternal life.

📜 Commentary Sections 📜

Daniel 12:1 – Michael’s Stand and the Time of Trouble

Original Text (NKJV): “At that time Michael shall stand up, The great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people; And there shall be a time of trouble, Such as never was since there was a nation, Even to that time. And at that time your people shall be delivered, Every one who is found written in the book.”

Original Text (KJV): “And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.”

This verse introduces Michael, the Archangel, as the protector of God’s people. His “standing up” signifies his active intervention in the affairs of humanity, particularly during a period of unprecedented tribulation. The “time of trouble” is described as unparalleled in its severity, highlighting the magnitude of the spiritual battle. This period of chaos is not without hope; those “written in the book,” representing God’s elect, will be delivered. The “book” symbolizes God’s record of the righteous, predestined for salvation.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on Daniel, emphasizes the role of Michael as a celestial warrior battling against the forces of evil on behalf of the faithful. He notes: “καὶ ὁ Μιχαὴλ ἀναστήσεται, ὁ ἄρχων ὁ μέγας ὁ ἑστηκὼς ἐπὶ τοὺς υἱοὺς τοῦ λαοῦ σου. τοῦτο σημαίνει τὴν ἐνεργὸν βοήθειαν καὶ προστασίαν τοῦ ἀρχαγγέλου ὑπὲρ τῶν πιστῶν” (kai ho Michaēl anastēsetai, ho archōn ho megas ho hestēkōs epi tous huious tou laou sou. touto sēmainei tēn energon boētheian kai prostasian tou archangelou hyper tōn pistōn – “And Michael shall stand up, the great prince who stands over the sons of your people. This signifies the active help and protection of the archangel on behalf of the faithful.”). (St. Cyril of Alexandria, Commentary on Daniel).

Spiritual Application: Even in times of immense suffering, remember that God has appointed protectors like Michael to intercede for us. Our hope lies in being “written in the book,” which requires a life of faith, repentance, and obedience to God’s commandments. Consider improving your online presence and security during this time of increasing digital threats, finding a reliable web hosting service can safeguard your data and communications.

Daniel 12:2 – Resurrection of the Dead

Original Text (NKJV): “And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, Some to everlasting life, Some to shame and everlasting contempt.”

Original Text (KJV): “And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.”

This verse speaks of the general resurrection, a central tenet of Christian faith. It affirms that death is not the end but a sleep, from which the dead will be awakened. The resurrection is not uniform; some will rise to “everlasting life,” while others will face “shame and everlasting contempt.” This distinction emphasizes the consequences of our choices in this life and the reality of final judgment.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius, in his treatise “On the Incarnation,” explains that the resurrection is made possible through Christ’s victory over death. He writes: “Διὰ τοῦτο καὶ ἀνέστη ὁ Κύριος, ἵνα δείξῃ τὴν νίκην αὐτοῦ ἐπὶ τοῦ θανάτου καὶ τὴν ἀνάστασιν ἡμῶν” (Dia touto kai anestē ho Kyrios, hina deixē tēn nikēn autou epi tou thanatou kai tēn anastasin hēmōn – “For this reason also the Lord rose, that He might show His victory over death and our resurrection”). (St. Athanasius, On the Incarnation).

Spiritual Application: This verse challenges us to live with an awareness of the future resurrection. Our actions, thoughts, and words have eternal consequences. Let us strive to live lives worthy of “everlasting life,” focusing on love, compassion, and service to others.

Daniel 12:3 – The Wise Shall Shine

Original Text (NKJV): “Those who are wise shall shine Like the brightness of the firmament, And those who turn many to righteousness Like the stars forever and ever.”

Original Text (KJV): “And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.”

This verse highlights the reward for those who are “wise” and those who “turn many to righteousness.” The “wise” are not merely intellectually gifted but spiritually discerning individuals who understand God’s will. Those who lead others to righteousness will shine “like the stars forever and ever,” signifying their lasting impact and eternal glory. The imagery of shining like the stars underscores the visibility and permanence of their good deeds.

Patristic Insight: St. John Chrysostom, in his homilies on Matthew, emphasizes the importance of teaching and guiding others towards righteousness. He states that teachers of virtue “shall receive a greater reward, because they not only labor for themselves, but also for others” (St. John Chrysostom, Homilies on Matthew).

Spiritual Application: True wisdom lies in understanding and living according to God’s will. We are called to be beacons of light, guiding others toward righteousness through our words, actions, and example. Embrace opportunities to teach, mentor, and inspire those around you.

Daniel 12:4 – Shut Up the Words and Seal the Book

Original Text (NKJV): “But you, Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book until the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.”

Original Text (KJV): “But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.”

Daniel is instructed to “shut up the words and seal the book until the time of the end.” This signifies that the prophecies are intended for future generations, who will possess the understanding to decipher them. The phrase “many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase” has been interpreted as a prediction of increased travel and scientific advancement, which would characterize the end times.

Historical Context: The sealing of the book reflects the ancient practice of preserving important documents by sealing them with clay or wax seals. This ensured that the contents remained secure and unaltered until the designated time for their unveiling.

Spiritual Application: We live in a time of unprecedented access to information. Yet, true understanding comes not merely from accumulating knowledge but from seeking God’s wisdom and discerning the truth. The prophecies of Daniel should inspire us to study Scripture diligently, seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance in understanding its meaning.

Daniel 12:5-7 – The Two Others and the Vision of Time

Original Text (NKJV): Then I, Daniel, looked; and there stood two others, one on this riverbank and the other on that riverbank. ⁶ And one said to the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, “How long shall the fulfillment of these wonders be?” ⁷ Then I heard the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand to heaven, and swore by Him who lives forever, that it shall be for a time, times, and half a time; and when the power of the holy people has been completely shattered, all these things shall be finished.

Original Text (KJV): Then I Daniel looked, and, behold, there stood other two, the one on this side of the bank of the river, and the other on that side of the bank of the river. ⁶ And one said to the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, How long shall it be to the end of these wonders? ⁷ And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was above the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished.

The appearance of the two others and the man clothed in linen establishes a heavenly council, seeking clarification on the timeline for the fulfillment of the prophecies. The question “How long shall the fulfillment of these wonders be?” reflects the natural human desire to understand the timing of future events. The answer, “a time, times, and half a time,” is a symbolic representation of a period of tribulation, often interpreted as three and a half years. The conclusion of this period is linked to the complete shattering of the power of the holy people, suggesting a time of intense persecution and suffering for the faithful.

Symbolism: The “man clothed in linen” is often interpreted as an angelic being, representing divine authority and purity. The “time, times, and half a time” is a recurring motif in apocalyptic literature, symbolizing a period of testing and refinement for God’s people. The riverbank setting evokes the image of a boundary or threshold, marking the transition from one era to another.

Spiritual Application: While we may be curious about the precise timing of future events, it is more important to focus on our spiritual preparation. The prophecy of tribulation should not instill fear but rather inspire us to strengthen our faith, deepen our commitment to Christ, and cultivate perseverance in the face of adversity.

Daniel 12:8-10 – Understanding the End Times

Original Text (NKJV): Although I heard, I did not understand. Then I said, “My lord, what shall be the end of these things?” ⁹ And he said, “Go your way, Daniel, for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end. ¹⁰ Many shall be purified, made white, and refined, but the wicked shall do wickedly; and none of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand.”

Original Text (KJV): And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? ⁹ And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end. ¹⁰ Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.

Daniel’s inability to fully understand the prophecy highlights the mysterious nature of God’s plan. The assurance that the words are “closed up and sealed till the time of the end” reinforces the idea that the understanding of these prophecies would be unveiled in the future. Verse 10 emphasizes the contrasting fates of the righteous and the wicked. The righteous will be “purified, made white, and refined,” undergoing a process of spiritual cleansing and maturation. In contrast, the wicked will continue in their wickedness, unable to comprehend the truth.

Spiritual Refinement: The process of being “purified, made white, and refined” is analogous to the refining of precious metals, where impurities are removed to reveal the true value of the substance. Similarly, God uses trials and tribulations to purify our faith, refine our character, and draw us closer to Him.

Spiritual Application: Seek God’s wisdom and guidance through prayer, Scripture study, and fellowship with other believers. Embrace trials as opportunities for spiritual growth, allowing God to purify and refine your character. Live a life of righteousness, resisting the temptations of the world and seeking to align your will with God’s will.

Daniel 12:11-12 – The Abomination of Desolation and Blessed is He Who Waits

Original Text (NKJV): “And from the time that the daily sacrifice is taken away, and the abomination of desolation is set up, there shall be one thousand two hundred and ninety days. ¹² Blessed is he who waits, and comes to the one thousand three hundred and thirty-five days.”

Original Text (KJV): “And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days. ¹² Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days.”

These verses present specific timeframes associated with the “abomination of desolation,” an event that signifies the desecration of the temple and the interruption of regular worship. The “abomination of desolation” is a recurring theme in biblical prophecy, appearing in both Daniel and the Gospels (Matthew 24:15, Mark 13:14). The 1290 days and 1335 days are interpreted as symbolic periods of tribulation, following the cessation of daily sacrifices. The pronouncement “Blessed is he who waits, and comes to the one thousand three hundred and thirty-five days” suggests that those who endure to the end will receive a special blessing.

Historical Significance: The “abomination of desolation” is often associated with the desecration of the Second Temple by Antiochus IV Epiphanes in 167 BC, who erected an altar to Zeus in the Temple. However, many theologians believe that this event foreshadows a future desecration of the Temple in Jerusalem during the end times.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate patience and perseverance in your spiritual life. Even when faced with trials and tribulations, remember that God has a plan and a purpose. Trust in His timing, and remain steadfast in your faith, knowing that those who endure to the end will receive a rich reward.

Daniel 12:13 – Go Your Way Till the End

Original Text (NKJV): “But you, go your way till the end; for you shall rest, and will arise to your inheritance at the end of the days.”

Original Text (KJV): “But go thou thy way till the end: for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days.”

This final verse offers Daniel a personal assurance of rest and resurrection. He is instructed to “go your way till the end,” meaning to remain faithful in his calling until his death. The promise that he “shall rest, and will arise to your inheritance at the end of the days” affirms the hope of eternal life and the resurrection of the body. Daniel’s example of unwavering faith serves as an inspiration to all believers.

Eternal Inheritance: The concept of an “inheritance” in the Bible refers to the blessings and rewards that God bestows upon His faithful followers. This inheritance includes eternal life, fellowship with God, and participation in His kingdom.

Spiritual Application: Remain faithful to your calling, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties. Trust that God has a plan for your life and that He will reward your faithfulness. Look forward to the hope of eternal life and the resurrection, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

💡 Subtopic Sections 💡

Here are some key reflections on Daniel 12:

• 💡Archangel Michael’s Role: Michael is depicted as a powerful protector of God’s people, actively intervening during times of great tribulation.
• ✨Resurrection Hope: The promise of resurrection offers hope and comfort, reminding us that death is not the end but a transition to eternal life.
• 📖The Importance of Wisdom: True wisdom lies in understanding and living according to God’s will, leading to eternal glory.
• 📜Prophecy and Discernment: The prophecies of Daniel challenge us to study Scripture diligently and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in understanding their meaning.
• 🕊️Endurance and Perseverance: We are called to cultivate patience and perseverance in our spiritual lives, trusting in God’s timing and remaining steadfast in our faith.
• ✝️Eternal Inheritance: The promise of an eternal inheritance motivates us to live lives of faithfulness, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain.

❓ FAQ ❓

• Q: What is the significance of the “time of trouble” mentioned in Daniel 12:1?

  A: The “time of trouble” refers to a period of unprecedented tribulation and chaos, characterized by intense spiritual warfare and persecution of God’s people. It serves as a warning and a call to spiritual preparedness, urging us to strengthen our faith and deepen our reliance on God.

• Q: How should we interpret the phrase “many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase” (Daniel 12:4)?

  A: This phrase is often interpreted as a prediction of increased travel and scientific advancement, which would characterize the end times. While these developments can bring benefits, they also present challenges, requiring us to exercise discernment and prioritize spiritual values.

• Q: What does it mean to be “purified, made white, and refined” (Daniel 12:10)?

  A: This phrase describes a process of spiritual cleansing and maturation, where God uses trials and tribulations to remove impurities from our lives and draw us closer to Him. It’s a process of spiritual transformation leading to righteousness.

• Q: What is the spiritual significance of Michael’s intercession?

  A: It highlights the reality of spiritual warfare and God’s provision of heavenly assistance. Michael’s intervention assures believers that they are not alone in their struggles and that divine power is available to protect and guide them.

🙏 Conclusion 🙏

Daniel 12 offers a profound glimpse into the end times, filled with both warnings and promises. The prophecy speaks of a time of unprecedented tribulation, but also of divine intervention, resurrection, and eternal rewards. The message is clear: resurrection and final judgment are realities that should shape our lives. The call to faithfulness and the pursuit of wisdom is constant. As believers, we are to remain steadfast in our faith, seeking to be “purified, made white, and refined” through the trials of life. The chapter concludes with a personal assurance to Daniel, reminding us of the hope of eternal life and the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom. May we all “go our way till the end,” trusting in God’s promises and looking forward to the day when we will “arise to our inheritance at the end of the days.” This involves continued growth and consistent reliance on divine grace to endure and remain faithful.

Tags

Daniel 12, Resurrection, Final Judgment, Prophecy, End Times, Michael, Archangel, Tribulation, Coptic Orthodox, Patristic Theology

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Explore Daniel 12 verse-by-verse commentary from a Coptic Orthodox perspective. Unveiling the prophecy of resurrection and final judgment, this guide provides deep spiritual insight.