Daniel 12:6

KJV

And [one] said to the man clothed in linen, which [was] upon the waters of the river, How long [shall it be to] the end of these wonders?

KJV (with Strong's)

And one said {H559} to the man {H376} clothed {H3847} in linen {H906}, which was upon {H4605} the waters {H4325} of the river {H2975}, How long shall it be to the end {H7093} of these wonders {H6382}?

Complete Jewish Bible

One of them asked the man dressed in linen who was above the water of the river, "How long will these wonders last?"

Berean Standard Bible

One of them said to the man dressed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, “How long until the fulfillment of these wonders?”

American Standard Version

And one said to the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 12:6 records a profound question posed by an unnamed angelic figure to the majestic "man clothed in linen," who stands mysteriously upon the waters of the river. The inquiry, "How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?", seeks to understand the duration of the extraordinary and often distressing prophetic events that Daniel has just witnessed, particularly those concerning the intense tribulations and the ultimate consummation of God's redemptive plan. This pivotal question encapsulates the deep human and angelic desire for clarity regarding divine timing amidst the unfolding mysteries of eschatology.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a critical transition point in Daniel's final vision (chapters 10-12), serving as a concluding inquiry after the detailed prophecy of future conflicts, particularly those involving the "king of the North" and "king of the South" in [Daniel 11](/daniel/11 "Daniel 11 - Prophecy of Kings and Conflicts"). It directly precedes the climactic events of the end times, including the great tribulation and resurrection, as detailed in [Daniel 12:1-3](/daniel/12-1-3 "Daniel 12:1-3 - The Time of Trouble and Resurrection"). The scene is set by the Tigris River, where Daniel has been receiving this profound revelation from the "man clothed in linen" since [Daniel 10:4-6](/daniel/10-4-6 "Daniel 10:4-6 - Daniel's Vision by the Tigris"). The question posed in [Daniel 12:6](/daniel/12-6 "Daniel 12:6 - The Question of Duration") comes from one of two additional angelic figures who have appeared, standing on either side of the river, highlighting the profound nature of the vision and the urgency of the inquiry regarding its timeline.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Daniel's prophecies were given during the Babylonian and Persian exiles, a period of significant upheaval and uncertainty for the Jewish people, who longed for restoration and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises. The "river" mentioned is likely the Tigris, a significant geographical feature in the ancient Near East, often associated with powerful empires and divine encounters. The concept of "wonders" (Hebrew: _peleʼ_) would have resonated with the miraculous interventions of God in Israel's history, but here it refers to extraordinary, often terrifying, future events. The "man clothed in linen" evokes imagery of purity, holiness, and priestly or divine authority, reminiscent of figures in the Tabernacle/Temple, or even the divine messenger in [Ezekiel 9:2-3](/ezekiel/9-2-3 "Ezekiel 9:2-3 - The Man with the Writer's Inkhorn"). This attire signifies the sacred and authoritative nature of the message being delivered.
* **Key Themes:** The verse encapsulates several profound themes central to the book of Daniel and biblical eschatology. Firstly, it highlights the **Inquiry into Divine Timing**, a recurring human desire to comprehend the duration of suffering and the advent of God's ultimate plan, echoed in the disciples' question to Jesus in [Acts 1:6](/acts/1-6 "Acts 1:6 - The Disciples Ask About the Kingdom's Restoration"). Secondly, it underscores the **Sovereignty of God** over history and prophecy, as the "man clothed in linen" possesses the knowledge of these "wonders" and their end. Thirdly, the "wonders" themselves point to the **Intensity of End-Time Tribulation**, a period of unprecedented distress described in [Daniel 12:1](/daniel/12-1 "Daniel 12:1 - Time of Trouble"). Finally, the scene emphasizes the **Role of Angelic Messengers** in revealing God's purposes to humanity, a consistent feature throughout Daniel's visions, as seen in the interpretations provided by Gabriel in [Daniel 8:16](/daniel/8-16 "Daniel 8:16 - Gabriel's Interpretation") and [Daniel 9:21-23](/daniel/9-21-23 "Daniel 9:21-23 - Gabriel Explains the Seventy Weeks").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **said (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** This primitive root is used with great latitude, encompassing speaking, answering, declaring, commanding, and even thinking or intending. In this context, it signifies a direct and urgent verbal inquiry, indicating a desire for a definitive response from a figure of authority.
* **man (Hebrew, _ʼîysh'_):** While generally meaning an individual or male person, here it refers to a specific, highly significant figure. Coupled with "clothed in linen," it denotes a personage of great importance and purity, distinct from ordinary men, often interpreted as a divine or angelic being.
* **wonders (Hebrew, _peleʼ'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be distinct, to be difficult, to be extraordinary," this word signifies a miracle or something marvelous. In the context of Daniel 12, it refers not merely to astounding events but specifically to the extraordinary, often terrifying, and difficult prophetic occurrences detailed in the preceding chapters, particularly the intense tribulation and the ultimate consummation of God's plan.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And one said to the man clothed in linen":** This introduces the questioner, an unnamed angelic figure, highlighting the authoritative position of the "man clothed in linen." The questioner's identity is less important than the recipient of the question, emphasizing the unique knowledge and authority of the linen-clad figure.
* **"which was upon the waters of the river":** This detail reinforces the majestic and transcendent nature of the linen-clad figure. Standing "upon the waters" (Hebrew: _maʻal mayim_) suggests a position of supernatural power and control, possibly over the very elements, reminiscent of divine manifestations. The "river" is likely the Tigris, where Daniel received this vision, grounding the supernatural encounter in a specific earthly location.
* **"How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?":** This is the core of the inquiry. The question "How long?" (Hebrew: _ʻad-mā-tay_) expresses a deep longing for the cessation of the difficult "wonders" (Hebrew: _peleʼ_) that have been revealed. It reflects a desire to know the duration of the intense tribulation and the timing of the ultimate fulfillment of God's prophetic plan, including the resurrection and the final judgment.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Symbolism** and **Interrogative Rhetoric**. The "man clothed in linen" is a powerful symbol of purity, divine authority, and possibly a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, echoing priestly garments and heavenly beings. His position "upon the waters of the river" further symbolizes his transcendent power and control over creation, setting him apart as a figure of ultimate knowledge. The question "How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?" serves as a crucial piece of **Interrogative Rhetoric**, not merely an information-seeking query but a rhetorical device that frames the entire concluding section of Daniel's prophecy. It articulates the universal human longing for an end to suffering and the unveiling of God's ultimate timeline, thereby drawing the reader into the profound mystery of divine sovereignty and eschatological timing. The very asking of the question, rather than its immediate answer, emphasizes the importance of the duration of the "wonders" and sets the stage for the revelation of God's sealed timing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse resonates deeply with the biblical theme of divine timing and human longing for clarity amidst suffering. The question "How long?" is a recurring cry in Scripture, voiced by prophets, psalmists, and even Christ's disciples, reflecting humanity's desire to understand the duration of trials, injustice, or the delay of God's promised intervention. The "man clothed in linen," often interpreted as a Christophany or a high-ranking angel, holds the knowledge of these "wonders," underscoring that the timeline of eschatological events is firmly within God's sovereign control. This divine prerogative means that while God reveals the nature of future events, the precise timing often remains veiled, serving to cultivate faith, patience, and perseverance rather than speculative calculation. The "wonders" themselves are not just extraordinary events but often challenging and distressing ones, highlighting the intensity of the end-time tribulation.

* [Psalm 13:1](/psalms/13-1 "Psalm 13:1 - How Long, O Lord?")
* [Revelation 6:10](/revelation/6-10 "Revelation 6:10 - The Cry of the Martyrs")
* [Habakkuk 1:2](/habakkuk/1-2 "Habakkuk 1:2 - Habakkuk's Complaint")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 12:6 invites us to reflect on our own posture towards the future, particularly concerning times of difficulty and the unfolding of God's purposes. Like the angelic questioner, we often desire to know "how long" our trials will last, or when God's ultimate kingdom will fully arrive. This verse reminds us that while God reveals much about His plan, the precise timing of its consummation often remains a divine mystery. Our primary call is not to obsessive calculation or anxious speculation, but to faithful endurance and diligent living in the present. The "wonders" described are severe, yet they are part of a sovereign plan leading to a glorious end, including resurrection and eternal life for the righteous. Therefore, rather than being consumed by the "when," believers are encouraged to focus on the "what": what God requires of us in faithfulness, wisdom, and witness during uncertain times, trusting that He who began a good work will bring it to completion in His perfect timing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the angelic question "How long?" resonate with your own questions or anxieties about current events or future uncertainties?**
* **In what ways can focusing on God's sovereignty over time, rather than precise timing, foster greater trust and peace in your life?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live faithfully and wisely in the present, even as you await the full revelation of God's future plans?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "man clothed in linen" in Daniel 12:6?**

Answer: The "man clothed in linen" is a majestic and authoritative figure who first appears to Daniel in [Daniel 10:5-6](/daniel/10-5-6 "Daniel 10:5-6 - Daniel's Vision of a Glorious Man"). His description, including eyes like flaming torches and a body like beryl, is strikingly similar to later descriptions of Christ in [Revelation 1:13-16](/revelation/1-13-16 "Revelation 1:13-16 - John's Vision of the Son of Man"). This figure is often interpreted by scholars as a Christophany, a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ, or a very high-ranking angel, possibly Michael, given his role in the preceding chapters of Daniel. His linen garments symbolize purity and priestly authority, aligning with a divine or divinely appointed messenger who possesses ultimate knowledge and power over the events he reveals.

**What are "these wonders" that the angelic figure is asking about?**

Answer: "These wonders" (Hebrew: _peleʼ_) refer to the extraordinary, often difficult, and miraculous events detailed in Daniel's final vision, particularly those described in [Daniel 11](/daniel/11 "Daniel 11 - Prophecy of Kings and Conflicts") and the opening verses of [Daniel 12](/daniel/12 "Daniel 12 - The End Times and Resurrection"). They encompass the intricate historical prophecies concerning various kings and conflicts, culminating in the "time of trouble, such as never has been since there was a nation" mentioned in [Daniel 12:1](/daniel/12-1 "Daniel 12:1 - The Great Tribulation"). These "wonders" are not merely astounding occurrences but specifically refer to the intense tribulations, persecutions, and ultimate divine interventions that will precede the final resurrection and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 12:6 poses a question about the timing of future "wonders," its ultimate fulfillment is deeply rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "man clothed in linen," often understood as a Christophany, foreshadows Christ as the ultimate revealer and fulfiller of all prophecy. It is Jesus who possesses all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")), and in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom All Treasures Are Hidden")). The "wonders" of tribulation and judgment, though terrifying, ultimately serve God's redemptive purposes, culminating in Christ's second coming, when He will bring an end to all suffering and establish His eternal kingdom ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears")). The question "How long?" finds its answer not in a precise date, but in the certainty of Christ's return, for He Himself declared that the precise day and hour are known only to the Father ([Matthew 24:36](/matthew/24-36 "Matthew 24:36 - No One Knows the Day or Hour")). Yet, the New Testament consistently points to Christ as the one who will bring these "wonders" to their appointed end, ushering in the new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells ([2 Peter 3:13](/2_peter/3-13 "2 Peter 3:13 - New Heavens and New Earth")). Thus, the hope for the end of these "wonders" is fundamentally a hope in the triumphant return and reign of Jesus Christ.

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

Ezekiel 9:2

And, behold, six men came from the way of the higher gate, which lieth toward the north, and every man a slaughter weapon in his hand; and one man among them [was] clothed with linen, with a writer's inkhorn by his side: and they went in, and stood beside the brasen altar.

Daniel 8:13

Then I heard one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain [saint] which spake, How long [shall be] the vision [concerning] the daily [sacrifice], and the transgression of desolation, to give both the sanctuary and the host to be trodden under foot?

Zechariah 1:12

Then the angel of the LORD answered and said, O LORD of hosts, how long wilt thou not have mercy on Jerusalem and on the cities of Judah, against which thou hast had indignation these threescore and ten years?

Zechariah 1:13

And the LORD answered the angel that talked with me [with] good words [and] comfortable words.

Daniel 8:16

And I heard a man's voice between [the banks of] Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this [man] to understand the vision.

Daniel 10:5

Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins [were] girded with fine gold of Uphaz:

Daniel 10:6

His body also [was] like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude.