What is the meaning of Daniel 12:5? Then I, Daniel, looked “Then I, Daniel, looked…” • Daniel personally witnesses the scene, reminding us that biblical prophecy is rooted in real history and firsthand testimony (cf. Daniel 7:2; Revelation 22:8). • His act of looking signals transition: the revelations of chapters 10–12 are drawing to a close, yet the Lord grants Daniel one more glimpse into heavenly activity (cf. Habakkuk 2:1). • The timing word “Then” links this verse to the preceding promise of resurrection and reward (Daniel 12:1–4), anchoring what follows in the certainty of God’s plan. and saw two others standing there “…and saw two others standing there…” • These “others” are angelic beings, distinct from the majestic being who has spoken since 10:5 (cf. Daniel 8:15–16; Zechariah 4:3). • Angels often appear in pairs or groups to confirm testimony (Deuteronomy 19:15; Luke 24:4). • Their presence underscores the gravity of the prophecy’s conclusion: heavenly messengers attend to ensure Daniel (and we) grasp its reliability (Hebrews 1:14). one on this bank of the river “…one on this bank of the river…” • The setting remains the Tigris River (Daniel 10:4). A messenger stationed on Daniel’s side signifies God’s nearness to His servant (Psalm 34:7). • Rivers in Scripture picture boundaries and transitions (Joshua 3:17; Revelation 22:1). This angel’s position hints that God’s word stands firm on our side of history’s flow. and one on the opposite bank “…and one on the opposite bank.” • The second angel across the water mirrors the first, portraying balance and completeness in the divine witness (2 Corinthians 13:1). • Together they frame the river like guardians of a sacred corridor, emphasizing that every detail of God’s timeline—from present to future—lies under watchful heavenly care (Psalm 103:20–22). • The scene anticipates the forthcoming oath in verse 7, where the “man clothed in linen” swears across the river, uniting both banks in a pledge that history will unfold exactly as decreed. summary Daniel 12:5 pictures Daniel observing two angels positioned on opposite banks of the Tigris. Their deliberate placement testifies that the prophetic message Daniel has received is fully attested, balanced, and protected by God’s heavenly court. The verse sets the stage for the final affirmation of God’s sovereign timetable, assuring believers that every promise—resurrection, judgment, and everlasting glory—rests on an unshakable, divinely witnessed foundation. |
    |