Daniel 12:5-13

Then I, Daniel, looked.

The Epilogue to the Vision

Hitherto the angel has prophesied the development of history, without adding any remark or exhortation. Here, however, he concludes his predictions by adding the strongest possible incitement to faithful perseverance; an incitement which must have had all the stronger effect since, though it is occasionally referred to in earlier prophets, the resurrection had never been brought forward so distinctly and powerfully, and especially had never been shown in its connection with retribution. Turning to the history of the period referred to we learn that the hope of resurrection to eternal life did sustain the sufferers of the Maccabean times, under the infliction of the most dreadful cruelties. Fitly, too, does the allusion to the resurrection at the last bring the whole series of predictions to a close, and lead the angel to say, “Shut up the words, and seal the book, oven unto the time of the end.” Viewed in connection with the final judgment, the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead is not only a support to those who are suffering wrongfully, but also a warning to all who are dealing unrighteously with God and His people. The present life is connected most intimately and inseparably with that which is to come. Now is for every one of us the germ of hereafter. With what importance does this invest the present life! Observe, also, the reward of the working saint. Probably the two clauses, “They that be wise,” “They that turn,” etc., form one parallelism, after the manner of the Hebrew poets. They who turn many to righteousness shall be honoured with bright and particular glory in the Heavenly state. Here is the grand aim toward which Christian ambition should be directed. Finally, we have here the rest of the waiting saint. Do not disquiet yourself about the future. Leave that in God’s hands. You shall rest in Him during the remainder of your life on earth; and when that shall end, you shall rest with Him. (William M. Taylor, D. D.)