Old Testament
Daniel 12:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, a mysterious figure dressed in linen stands over the waters of a river.
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
The man dressed in linen, who was upon the waters of the river, raised both his right hand and his left hand toward heaven and swore by the One who lives forever: 'It will last for a time, times, and half a time. When he has finished scattering the power of the holy people, all these things will come to an end.'
And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon 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.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, a mysterious figure dressed in linen stands over the waters of a river. He raises both hands to the sky and makes a solemn promise to the eternal God. He declares that a specific period will unfold, described as 'a time, times, and half a time.' This cryptic phrase suggests a defined duration of events that will lead to significant changes. The figure indicates that during this time, the strength of the holy people will be diminished. Once this scattering is complete, everything will reach its conclusion. This moment emphasizes the importance of patience and faith, as it reveals that even in times of struggle, there is a divine plan at work. The promise of an end encourages believers to hold on to hope, knowing that challenges are temporary and that a greater purpose is unfolding. Understanding this can help us navigate our own trials with confidence and assurance that they will not last forever, but will lead to a resolution that aligns with a higher purpose. Explore related gods.
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How to apply Daniel 12:7 to your life
When facing difficult times, remember that challenges are often temporary. Just as the passage assures us of an end, we can trust that our struggles will also conclude. Stay hopeful and patient, knowing that there is a greater plan at work in your life. Keep your faith strong during these periods of uncertainty, and look for the lessons they bring. Embrace the journey with confidence!
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 12:7 mean?
Daniel 12:7 describes a figure in linen who swears by God about a specific period of time during which the power of the holy people will be scattered. This indicates a time of trial that will eventually lead to a resolution.
What is the meaning of 'time, times, and half a time' in Daniel 12:7?
The phrase 'time, times, and half a time' is often interpreted as a period of three and a half years, symbolizing a time of testing and tribulation before a significant change occurs.
Who is the man dressed in linen in Daniel 12:7?
The man dressed in linen is often understood to be a heavenly messenger or angelic figure, conveying God's message about the future and the trials that will be faced.
What can we learn from Daniel 12:7?
Daniel 12:7 teaches that even in difficult times, there is a promise of resolution and hope. It encourages believers to remain patient and faithful, trusting that challenges are temporary.
The Book of Daniel
Daniel 1: Daniel and His Friends in Babylon
In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon comes unto Jerusalem and besieges it. The Lord gives Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God, which he carries into the land of Shinar to the house of his god. The king speaks unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes; children in whom is no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as have ability in them to stand in the king's palace, whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. The king appoints them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank, so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king. Among these are of the children of Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The prince of the eunuchs gives them names: unto Daniel he gives the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.
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