Definition: And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what [shall be] the end of these [things]?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly complex and fascinating passage from Daniel 12:8. It’s a really rich and layered verse that deals with themes of prophecy, impending change, and our understanding of God's plan. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms, broken down into key parts: The Core Idea: This verse essentially asks us to consider the future – specifically, what will happen after a significant period of upheaval and uncertainty – and to grapple with the fact that we might not fully understand it. It's about acknowledging that God’s plans are often beyond our grasp. Let’s unpack it word by word: “And I heard, but I understood not…” : This is the crucial part. Daniel was a prophet in ancient times. He saw visions and received messages from God. But he didn't fully understand what those messages were. It’s like trying to decipher an incredibly complex code. “…then said I, O my Lord, what [shall be] the end of these [things]?” : This is where it gets really profound. "These things" refers to a period of significant change and challenges – likely involving political turmoil, societal collapse, or some major shift in the world. The word “things” is deliberately vague. So, what does it mean ? Here's my interpretation, drawing on biblical symbolism and thought: “These things” refers to a time of great upheaval: Daniel’s vision speaks of a period where the established order – the political system, social norms, even our own sense of security – is about to be dramatically altered. Think of it as a storm brewing that will shake everything up. "What shall be" - The Unknown Future: The verse isn't asking what will happen in a specific way. It’s asking what the outcome of this upheaval will be. God has a plan, but we don't always know exactly how that plan unfolds. A Focus on Faith and Hope: The phrase "O my Lord" is incredibly important. It emphasizes that Daniel wasn’t just passively observing. He was asking for guidance from God, acknowledging that he needed to trust in His wisdom even when the details were unclear. Symbolic Interpretation (a common understanding): Many people interpret this verse through a symbolic lens: The "Storm": The "things" could represent any significant challenge or period of darkness – war, famine, disease, or moral decay. “What shall be” - A New Creation: This suggests that even after the storm, there will be a new beginning, a fresh creation, and a renewed opportunity for God to work through humanity. It’s not about exactly how things will change, but about the possibility of something better emerging from the chaos. In essence, this verse is a call to: Trust in God's Plan: Even when we don’t understand everything that’s happening, we should trust that God has a purpose for our lives and the world around us. Embrace Hope: It reminds us that even amidst darkness and uncertainty, there is always the possibility of renewal and transformation. Resources to Explore Further: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Daniel/128](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Daniel/128) - This offers a good overview of the verse’s context and interpretations. The Bible Project: [https://thebiblestory.com/daniel-12-8/](https://thebiblestory.com/daniel-12-8/) – They offer visual and insightful explanations of biblical passages. --- To help me tailor this explanation further, could you tell me: What specifically about this verse are you most interested in? (e.g., its symbolism, historical context, or a particular interpretation?)