Definition: So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me, Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end [shall be] the vision.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Daniel 8:17. It’s a really fascinating and complex passage that’s often misunderstood. Here's my explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a significant moment of anxiety and fear for Daniel, who is receiving a vision from God. It speaks about the end times and a future event that will be incredibly important. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “So he came near where I stood…” – This sets the scene. Daniel is being guided to a specific place or situation, likely a place of importance for God. “…and when he came, I was afraid…” – This is the key part. Daniel experiences a deep and powerful feeling of fear and apprehension. It’s not just any fear; it's a profound sense of dread and uncertainty about what’s to come. “But he said unto me…” - This is where the message gets really important. God speaks directly to Daniel, conveying a clear warning. “…understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end [shall be] the vision.” – This is the core of the verse. “The end” refers to a significant period in history – possibly the culmination of global events or a turning point. "The vision" means a future glimpse into what will happen. What does it mean? The phrase "at the time of the end" is very symbolic. It’s not about a specific, literal event like a battle or earthquake. Instead, it refers to a period of profound change and upheaval that will drastically alter the world. God is telling Daniel that this moment – this feeling of fear and anticipation – is a crucial sign. It's a time when God is preparing for something incredibly significant. The “vision” he receives isn’t just a random dream; it’s a glimpse into what’s going to happen, but the details are not yet known. Why is this verse important? This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy about the coming of Jesus Christ. It suggests that God has planned a great event – one that will bring about a time of peace and justice on Earth. It’s a message of hope, even amidst uncertainty and anxiety. In short: Daniel receives a powerful vision from God, filled with fear and anticipation, telling him to understand the impending end times and prepare for a significant future event. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes? Give you some historical context about the book of Daniel?