Daniel 12:1

At that time. Heb. ba‘eth hahi’, “at that time,” or “in that time.” Some hold that these words point back to the phrase be‘eth qes, “at [or in] the time of the end” (Daniel 11:40); that is, that the events to be narrated take place within that general period of time. However, the context warrants the conclusion that “that time” refers to the time of the disappearance of the power described at the end of Daniel 11. It should be noted that the words “at that time” do not specify whether the events here foretold are to occur simultaneously with those of Daniel 11:45, or whether they immediately precede or follow. The important point is that the events of the last verse of Daniel 11 and those of the first of Daniel 12 are closely related in point of time.

Michael. See on Daniel 10:13. Here the divine Champion in the great controversy takes action to deliver His people.

Stand up. Heb. ‘amad. The same word is used later in the verse to describe Michael’s standing “for the children of thy people.” The sense seems clearly to be that Christ arises to deliver His people (see GC 613, 633, 641, 642, 657).

Prince. Heb. ‘sar (see on Daniel 10:13).

Standeth for. Heb. hab‘omed ‘al, “who stands over,” that is, in protection.

Time of trouble. When Christ’s mediation ceases and God’s Spirit is withdrawn from men, then all the pent-up powers of darkness descend with indescribable fury upon the world. There will be a scene of strife such as no pen can picture (see GC 613,614).

Delivered. What a consolation that in this great controversy the outcome is not in doubt! Compare Daniel 7:18, 22, 27; 10:14.

The book. That is, the book of life (see on Daniel 7:10; cf. Philippians 4:3; Revelation 13:8; 20:15; 21:27; 22:19).