Daniel 12:3

Authorized King James Version

And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהַ֨מַּשְׂכִּלִ֔ים
And they that be wise
to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent
#2
יַזְהִ֖רוּ
shall shine
figuratively, to enlighten (by caution)
#3
כְּזֹ֣הַר
as the brightness
brilliancy
#4
הָרָקִ֑יעַ
of the firmament
properly, an expanse, i.e., the firmament or (apparently) visible arch of the sky
#5
וּמַצְדִּיקֵי֙
to righteousness
to be (causatively, make) right (in a moral or forensic sense)
#6
הָֽרַבִּ֔ים
and they that turn many
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#7
כַּכּוֹכָבִ֖ים
as the stars
a star (as round or as shining); figuratively, a prince
#8
לְעוֹלָ֥ם
for ever
properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
#9
וָעֶֽד׃
and ever
properly, a (peremptory) terminus, i.e., (by implication) duration, in the sense of advance or perpetuity (substantially as a noun, either with or wit

Analysis

Within the broader context of Daniel, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Daniel.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Daniel Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes righteousness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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