Daniel 12:7 – “The man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, lifted his right hand and his left hand toward heaven, and I heard him swear by him who lives forever, saying, ‘It will be for a time, times and half a time. When the power of the holy people has been finally broken, all these things will be completed.'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the “man clothed in linen,” standing above the river, makes a solemn declaration about the timing and nature of the events Daniel has seen. By raising both hands toward heaven and swearing by God, this figure underscores the certainty and seriousness of the prophecy. The phrase “time, times and half a time” is often understood as a symbolic period—likely three and a half years—marking a period of great tribulation and suffering for God’s people. The breaking of the power of the holy people signifies the culmination of this distress, after which God’s ultimate plan will be fulfilled.
Historical Context
Daniel received this vision during the Babylonian exile, a time of suffering and longing for deliverance among God’s people. The prophecy looks ahead to future times of persecution, not just for the Israelites but for God’s people throughout history. This specific timeframe, “time, times and half a time,” is echoed in other apocalyptic writings, such as Revelation, and would have been understood as a period of intense trial leading to divine intervention.
Theological Implications
This verse reminds us of God’s control over history, even in times of great suffering. The suffering of God’s people is not meaningless but is part of His sovereign plan. The phrase “when the power of the holy people has been finally broken” indicates that human strength will not bring about deliverance; only God’s intervention will. This humbles believers, pointing them to complete dependence on God.
Literary Analysis
The imagery in this verse is vivid and intentional. The man’s position above the waters, his raised hands, and the act of swearing by God emphasize his authority and the certainty of the prophecy. The use of “time, times and half a time” as a symbolic period adds to the mystery and depth of the vision, inviting reflection on its meaning. The verse also builds tension, pointing to the completion of God’s purposes.
Biblical Cross-References
- Revelation 12:14: The same phrase, “time, times and half a time,” is used to describe a period of protection during tribulation.
- Daniel 7:25: This earlier vision also references “time, times and half a time,” in connection with persecution by a powerful ruler.
- Habakkuk 2:3: A reminder that God’s plans will be fulfilled at the appointed time, even if they seem delayed.
- Matthew 24:22: Jesus speaks of the shortening of tribulation for the sake of God’s elect, echoing the themes in Daniel.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse offers both a challenge and a hope. It acknowledges the reality of suffering and trials in the life of faith but also assures us that God has set limits on these hardships. The mention of the “power of the holy people” being broken reminds believers to rely on God rather than their own strength. This verse encourages perseverance, knowing that God’s purposes will ultimately prevail.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in His sovereign control over the events described in this verse. He allows suffering but sets boundaries on it, demonstrating both His justice and mercy. By revealing these details to Daniel, God shows His care for His people, giving them hope and assurance that their trials are not in vain and will lead to His ultimate victory.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the hope expressed in this verse. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus overcame the ultimate tribulation—sin and death. He warned His followers of coming trials (John 16:33) but assured them of His victory. The “time, times and half a time” points to a period of suffering that will culminate in God’s deliverance, echoing Jesus’ promise of His return to establish His eternal kingdom (Matthew 24:30).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does the phrase “time, times and half a time” teach us about God’s control over history?
- How does this verse encourage you to persevere through trials?
- What does it mean for the “power of the holy people” to be broken? How does this apply to our dependence on God?
- How can this verse deepen your trust in God’s ultimate plan and timing?
- How does Jesus’ victory over sin and death bring hope in the face of tribulation?