Daniel 12:2

KJV

And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame [and] everlasting contempt.

KJV (with Strong's)

And many {H7227} of them that sleep {H3463} in the dust {H6083} of the earth {H127} shall awake {H6974}, some to everlasting {H5769} life {H2416}, and some to shame {H2781} and everlasting {H5769} contempt {H1860}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Many of those sleeping in the dust of the earth will awaken, some to everlasting life and some to everlasting shame and abhorrence.

Berean Standard Bible

And many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt.

American Standard Version

And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 12:2 delivers a profound and foundational prophecy concerning the eschatological destiny of humanity: the universal resurrection of the dead, followed by a definitive and eternal separation into two distinct outcomes. This verse serves as a cornerstone for understanding the biblical concept of divine justice, the afterlife, and the ultimate accountability of all individuals before God, revealing that all who have died will be raised, but not all to the same end.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 12:2 concludes the final and most extensive prophetic vision given to Daniel, spanning chapters 10-12. This vision, initiated by a heavenly messenger, details a sweeping panorama of future events, from the conflicts of Persian and Greek empires to the "time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation" ([Daniel 12:1](/daniel/12-1 "Daniel 12:1 - The Time of Trouble")). Within this escalating narrative of tribulation and divine intervention, Daniel 12:2 provides the climactic resolution, offering a glimpse beyond earthly suffering and historical events to the ultimate, eternal destinies of humanity. It directly follows the promise of deliverance for God's people and precedes the sealing of the book's words until the time of the end.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Daniel, particularly its apocalyptic sections, was likely compiled or finalized during a period of intense persecution for the Jewish people, such as the Hellenistic era under Antiochus IV Epiphanes (2nd century BCE). During this time, faithfulness to God often led to martyrdom, making the concept of a future resurrection a vital source of hope and encouragement. While earlier Old Testament passages hinted at a resurrection, such as the prophetic words in [Isaiah 26:19](/isaiah/26-19 "Isaiah 26:19 - Resurrection of the Dead") or Job's declaration in [Job 19:26](/job/19-26 "Job 19:26 - Job's Hope of Seeing God"), Daniel 12:2 stands out as the clearest and most explicit declaration in the Hebrew Scriptures of a universal resurrection, encompassing both the righteous and the wicked. This prophecy would have dramatically contrasted with prevailing pagan beliefs about the afterlife, which often lacked a concept of bodily resurrection or a definitive, just judgment for all.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Daniel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Universal Resurrection**, asserting that death is not the final state for anyone, but rather a temporary "sleep" from which all will "awake." Secondly, it introduces the stark reality of **Dual Destinies**, clearly delineating two distinct and eternal outcomes: "everlasting life" for the righteous and "shame and everlasting contempt" for the unrighteous. This reinforces the theme of **Divine Justice**, emphasizing that God will ultimately bring all deeds into account, ensuring that righteousness is rewarded and wickedness is judged. Finally, the repeated use of "everlasting" highlights the **Eternity of Final States**, conveying that these ultimate destinies are permanent and irreversible, a concept foundational to the biblical understanding of the end times as seen in passages like [Matthew 25:46](/matthew/25-46 "Matthew 25:46 - Eternal Punishment and Eternal Life").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **sleep (Hebrew, _yâshên'_):** From H3463, this word literally means "sleepy" or "asleep." In the context of Daniel 12:2, it functions as a profound **metaphor** for death. It suggests that death is not an ultimate cessation of being, but rather a temporary, unconscious state, akin to slumber, from which one will eventually awaken. This imagery offers comfort, implying a continuity of identity beyond the grave and anticipating a future reanimation.
* **awake (Hebrew, _qûwts'_):** Derived from H6974, this verb means "to awake" or "to arise," either literally from sleep or figuratively. Its use here directly contrasts with "sleep," signifying the **resurrection** of the dead. It denotes a sudden, decisive action, indicating that the awakening from death will be a divinely orchestrated event, bringing individuals back to conscious existence. This term highlights the active power of God in bringing about the resurrection.
* **everlasting (Hebrew, _ʻôwlâm'_):** From H5769, this crucial term signifies "time out of mind (past or future)," practically meaning "eternity" or "perpetual." Its repetition in the verse ("everlasting life" and "everlasting contempt") emphasizes the **permanent and unending nature** of the two final destinies. It rules out concepts of annihilation or temporary punishment for the wicked, and likewise guarantees the perpetual blessedness of the righteous. This word underscores the ultimate and irreversible nature of God's final judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake":** This opening clause presents the central prophecy: a universal bodily resurrection. The phrase "sleep in the dust of the earth" is a common biblical idiom for death and burial, emphasizing the physical decomposition of the body. The "dust of the earth" (Hebrew _'aphar ha'adamah'_) reinforces the connection to humanity's creation from dust ([Genesis 2:7](/genesis/2-7 "Genesis 2:7 - Creation of Man")) and its return to it upon death ([Genesis 3:19](/genesis/3-19 "Genesis 3:19 - Return to Dust")). The "many" (Hebrew _rab_) indicates a multitude, signifying that this resurrection is not limited to a select few but encompasses a vast number of humanity. The verb "shall awake" points to a future, divinely appointed event that reverses the state of death.
* **"some to everlasting life":** This clause introduces the first of the two distinct destinies. "Everlasting life" (Hebrew _chayyei 'olam_) refers to an unending, eternal existence characterized by blessedness, fellowship with God, and liberation from sin and suffering. This is the promised reward for those who are righteous and faithful.
* **"and some to shame [and] everlasting contempt":** This clause presents the second, contrasting destiny. "Shame" (Hebrew _cherpah_) denotes disgrace, reproach, and public humiliation, while "contempt" (Hebrew _dera'on_) signifies abhorrence, repulsion, and an object of aversion. The combination of these terms, coupled with "everlasting," paints a picture of an eternal state of utter disgrace, alienation from God, and perpetual ignominy for the unrighteous. This outcome is not merely a temporary punishment but an unending state of being held in abhorrence.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 12:2 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, specifically the use of "sleep in the dust of the earth" to describe death. This common biblical idiom softens the harshness of death while simultaneously implying a future awakening, much like one rises from a night's rest. This metaphor underscores the temporary nature of death from God's eternal perspective. Furthermore, the verse utilizes stark **Antithesis** or **Contrast** by juxtaposing "everlasting life" with "shame [and] everlasting contempt." This direct opposition highlights the absolute and irreconcilable difference between the two ultimate destinies, emphasizing the binary nature of God's final judgment. Finally, a form of **Parallelism** is evident in the balanced structure "some to... and some to...," which effectively presents the two distinct groups and their respective eternal outcomes with clarity and impactful symmetry.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 12:2 stands as a monumental theological declaration in the Old Testament, providing the clearest pre-New Testament revelation of a universal bodily resurrection leading to a dual eternal destiny. This prophecy firmly establishes the biblical doctrine of individual accountability and divine justice, asserting that death is not the end, but a transition to a final reckoning where all humanity will face the consequences of their earthly lives. It underscores God's sovereignty over life and death, and His commitment to perfectly execute justice, distinguishing forever between those who are righteous in His sight and those who remain in rebellion. This clear articulation of eternal life and eternal punishment lays foundational groundwork for the more expansive revelations found in the New Testament concerning the resurrection, judgment, and the nature of eternity.

* [John 5:28-29](/john/5-28-29 "John 5:28-29 - Jesus' Teaching on the Resurrection of Life and Condemnation")
* [Matthew 25:46](/matthew/25-46 "Matthew 25:46 - The Eternal Destinies of the Righteous and the Wicked")
* [Isaiah 26:19](/isaiah/26-19 "Isaiah 26:19 - Prophecy of the Resurrection of God's People")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 12:2 compels us to live with an acute awareness of our eternal destiny. It shatters any illusion that death is the final word, replacing it with the sobering reality of a coming resurrection and a definitive judgment. For the believer, this verse offers immense comfort and profound motivation. The promise of "everlasting life" assures us that our faith, our struggles, and our faithfulness in this temporal existence are not in vain, but will culminate in an unending, glorious fellowship with God, free from all sorrow and pain ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - God Wipes Away Every Tear")). This hope should fuel our perseverance in the face of trials and inspire us to live lives worthy of our calling. For those who have not yet embraced God's grace, Daniel 12:2 serves as a solemn warning. The prospect of "shame and everlasting contempt" underscores the gravity of rejecting God's offer of salvation and the terrifying reality of eternal separation from His presence. This truth should provoke earnest self-examination and a fervent desire to seek reconciliation with God through Christ, for the choices made in this life determine one's eternal destination. Ultimately, this verse calls all humanity to live with an eternal perspective, making choices today that align with God's will and prepare us for the resurrection unto life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the clarity of Daniel 12:2's prophecy of a universal resurrection challenge or confirm your understanding of life after death?**
* **Considering the two distinct outcomes ("everlasting life" vs. "shame and everlasting contempt"), what implications does this have for how you live your life daily?**
* **In what ways does the concept of "sleep" for death offer comfort or perspective on loss?**
* **How does this verse motivate you to share the hope of "everlasting life" with others?**

### FAQ
**Is Daniel 12:2 the first mention of resurrection in the Bible?**

Answer: While Daniel 12:2 is arguably the clearest and most explicit declaration of a universal bodily resurrection in the Old Testament, it is not the absolute first mention of the concept. Earlier passages hint at or allude to resurrection. For example, [Job 19:26](/job/19-26 "Job 19:26 - Job's Hope of Seeing God After Death") expresses Job's hope of seeing God "in my flesh" after his skin is destroyed, and [Isaiah 26:19](/isaiah/26-19 "Isaiah 26:19 - The Resurrection of the Dead") prophesies, "Your dead shall live; their bodies shall rise." However, Daniel 12:2 is unique in its explicit statement that *many* of those who sleep in the dust will awake, distinguishing between two eternal destinies for all who are raised.

**What does "sleep in the dust of the earth" mean in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "sleep in the dust of the earth" is a powerful biblical **metaphor** for death and burial. "Sleep" is a common euphemism for death throughout Scripture, emphasizing that death is a temporary state, not an ultimate end, from which one will eventually awaken. The "dust of the earth" refers to the physical body's return to the ground from which it was formed, as described in [Genesis 3:19](/genesis/3-19 "Genesis 3:19 - Return to Dust"). Thus, the phrase collectively signifies that individuals who have died and whose bodies have returned to the earth will be reanimated and brought back to conscious existence.

**Does this verse suggest there's a chance for redemption after this resurrection?**

Answer: No, Daniel 12:2 does not suggest a chance for redemption after this resurrection. The verse clearly delineates two final, **everlasting** outcomes: "everlasting life" and "everlasting contempt." The term "everlasting" (Hebrew _'olam'_) denotes an unending, permanent state. There is no indication of a third option, a temporary state, or an opportunity for change or repentance once this resurrection and judgment have occurred. The biblical teaching consistently presents this resurrection as the culmination of history and the definitive establishment of eternal destinies, with the time for repentance being limited to one's earthly life (e.g., [Hebrews 9:27](/hebrews/9-27 "Hebrews 9:27 - Appointed to Die Once, Then Judgment")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 12:2, with its stark prophecy of a universal resurrection leading to two eternal destinies, finds its ultimate fulfillment and clarification in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Daniel foresees the "awake[ning]" of "many," it is Jesus who declares Himself to be "the resurrection and the life" ([John 11:25](/john/11-25 "John 11:25 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life")), demonstrating His power over death by His own resurrection from the grave ([Luke 24:6-7](/luke/24-6-7 "Luke 24:6-7 - The Resurrection of Jesus")). He is the one through whom "all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out" ([John 5:28-29](/john/5-28-29 "John 5:28-29 - Jesus' Teaching on the Resurrection of Life and Condemnation")), confirming Daniel's vision of a universal awakening. The "everlasting life" promised in Daniel is fully realized in Christ, who offers eternal life to all who believe in Him ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God's Love and Everlasting Life")). Conversely, the "shame and everlasting contempt" for the unrighteous is the just consequence of rejecting Christ, who is appointed by God to be the Judge of the living and the dead ([Acts 10:42](/acts/10-42 "Acts 10:42 - Jesus Appointed Judge")). Thus, Daniel's prophecy points forward to the coming of the Messiah, Jesus, who not only embodies the hope of resurrection but also serves as the ultimate arbiter of these eternal destinies, making the choice to follow Him the pivotal decision for every soul.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 5:28

Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,

John 5:29

And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.

Isaiah 26:19

Thy dead [men] shall live, [together with] my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew [is as] the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead.

Matthew 25:46

And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

Ezekiel 37:12

Therefore prophesy and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel.

1 Corinthians 15:51

¶ Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,

1 Corinthians 15:54

So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.