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Book of Daniel - Chapter 12 - Verse 7

12:7
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.

Meaning

This verse from the Book of Daniel is part of a vision where the prophet sees a man clothed in linen standing above the waters of the river. The man raises his hands to heaven and swears by the eternal living God that a period of time, times, and half a time will pass before certain events occur. This period often symbolizes a time of trial or persecution for the people of God. The scattering of the power of the holy people mentioned in the verse likely refers to a time of tribulation or persecution that will come upon the righteous. However, the man in linen assures that after this period is completed, all things will be finished. This verse is a reminder that even in the face of challenges and persecution, there is hope in the promise of God that all things will ultimately be resolved and finished according to His plan.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the symbolism and imagery used to convey a message. The man clothed in linen represents a heavenly figure, possibly an angel or a manifestation of God's presence. The act of holding up his hands to heaven signifies invoking a solemn oath, emphasizing the importance and truthfulness of the message being conveyed. The mention of a "time, times, and an half" has been interpreted in various ways, with some seeing it as a reference to a specific period of time, while others view it as symbolic of a period of tribulation or persecution. The mention of scattering the power of the holy people could refer to a time of hardship or testing for believers, with the promise that all will be completed according to God's plan. Through word studies, the significance of each phrase and symbol can be further unpacked to deepen our understanding of the message being communicated in this verse.

American Standard Version

And 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 unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and a half; and when they have made an end of breaking in pieces the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished.
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