God’s protection will arrive in the midst of the greatest trouble they have yet seen.
Daniel unveils a critical moment in his prophecy when he writes, “Now at that time Michael, the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people, will arise” (Daniel 12:1). Michael is the archangel recognized throughout Scripture for his role in spiritual warfare (Revelation 12:7). By referring to him as “the great prince,” Daniel points to a mighty defender who intervenes on behalf of God’s people. Historically, the Book of Daniel is often dated to the 6th century BC, during the time of Israel’s exile in Babylon, though some scholars place its final compilation in the 2nd century BC. Regardless, Michael’s appearance in Daniel 12:1 signals a pivotal event within this prophetic timeline, offering hope that God’s covenant people would receive supernatural protection in a season of turmoil.
Daniel continues his prophecy with the warning, “And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time” (Daniel 12:1). This suggests an unprecedented crisis for Israel, an ancient kingdom situated in the region of Canaan, which stretches along the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. This “distress” can be linked thematically to other prophecies describing end-time persecutions and tribulations (Matthew 24:21). In the historical context, Israel had endured numerous sieges and exiles, including the Babylonian captivity. Daniel’s oracle, however, points to a level of anguish that surpasses all former instances, emphasizing the gravity of this impending trial.
Yet Daniel quickly follows with a note of divine rescue, proclaiming, “and at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the book, will be rescued” (Daniel 12:1). This statement underscores God’s sovereign grace in preserving a faithful remnant. The notion of a book indicating salvation resonates with later New Testament references to the Lamb’s book of life (Revelation 20:12). Daniel’s prophecy affirms God’s plan to bring deliverance in the midst of unparalleled suffering, further revealing that those who remain loyal to God will ultimately experience His saving power.
Set to dark mode
Daniel 12:1 meaning
Daniel unveils a critical moment in his prophecy when he writes, “Now at that time Michael, the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people, will arise” (Daniel 12:1). Michael is the archangel recognized throughout Scripture for his role in spiritual warfare (Revelation 12:7). By referring to him as “the great prince,” Daniel points to a mighty defender who intervenes on behalf of God’s people. Historically, the Book of Daniel is often dated to the 6th century BC, during the time of Israel’s exile in Babylon, though some scholars place its final compilation in the 2nd century BC. Regardless, Michael’s appearance in Daniel 12:1 signals a pivotal event within this prophetic timeline, offering hope that God’s covenant people would receive supernatural protection in a season of turmoil.
Daniel continues his prophecy with the warning, “And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time” (Daniel 12:1). This suggests an unprecedented crisis for Israel, an ancient kingdom situated in the region of Canaan, which stretches along the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. This “distress” can be linked thematically to other prophecies describing end-time persecutions and tribulations (Matthew 24:21). In the historical context, Israel had endured numerous sieges and exiles, including the Babylonian captivity. Daniel’s oracle, however, points to a level of anguish that surpasses all former instances, emphasizing the gravity of this impending trial.
Yet Daniel quickly follows with a note of divine rescue, proclaiming, “and at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the book, will be rescued” (Daniel 12:1). This statement underscores God’s sovereign grace in preserving a faithful remnant. The notion of a book indicating salvation resonates with later New Testament references to the Lamb’s book of life (Revelation 20:12). Daniel’s prophecy affirms God’s plan to bring deliverance in the midst of unparalleled suffering, further revealing that those who remain loyal to God will ultimately experience His saving power.