What is the meaning of Daniel 12:2? And many The verse begins with a note of inclusiveness—“many.” • Scripture often states that God “desires all men to be saved” (1 Timothy 2:4), yet here Daniel is told that “many” rather than “all” will experience resurrection. • This anticipates a real, historical event that will involve vast numbers across the ages (Revelation 20:12). • The term assures us that God’s plan is neither hidden nor limited to a tiny remnant; countless lives will be involved when He brings history to its climax. who sleep in the dust of the earth • “Sleep” is a common biblical metaphor for physical death (John 11:11–14; 1 Thessalonians 4:13). • “Dust of the earth” recalls Genesis 3:19—humanity formed from dust and returning to it—so the phrase underscores the reality of bodily death. • The emphasis is on the physical realm: these are real graves, not merely spiritual conditions. Job anticipated this hope when he declared, “And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God” (Job 19:26). will awake • This is a literal resurrection, foretold centuries before Christ affirmed it (John 5:28–29). • God alone has power to call the dead back to life, as shown in Jesus’ raising of Lazarus (John 11:43–44) and in His own resurrection (Matthew 28:5–6). • The action is singular and decisive: no gradual soul-evolution, but an immediate, divine summons transforming dust into living people (1 Corinthians 15:52). some to everlasting life • Eternal life is not merely endless existence; it is blessed, fulfilled fellowship with God (John 17:3). • This destiny belongs to those whose names are written in the Book of Life (Daniel 12:1; Philippians 4:3; Revelation 20:15). • Jesus linked faith in Him to this promise: “Whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life” (John 5:24). • The word “everlasting” confirms permanence; the life given cannot be lost (John 10:28). but others to shame and everlasting contempt • Scripture teaches a dual outcome: resurrection leads either to reward or to judgment (Matthew 25:31-46). • “Shame” reflects the awful realization of having rejected God’s truth (Luke 13:27-28). • “Everlasting contempt” parallels Revelation 20:14-15, depicting the lake of fire as a conscious, unending separation from God. • The contrast underscores personal responsibility; choices made in this life carry eternal consequences (Hebrews 9:27). summary Daniel 12:2 presents a straightforward, literal promise: there will be a bodily resurrection. Multitudes now “sleep” in earthly graves, yet God will awaken them. For those who have trusted Him, the future holds unending, joyous life in His presence. For others, the outcome is eternal disgrace and separation. The verse calls every reader to embrace God’s salvation now, confident that His Word about the last day is certain and final. |
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