Daniel 12:3

Those who in the time of trial had by example and precept preserved many in righteousness and faith, will then receive their reward.

they that be wise The words do not mean the -wise" generally, but those mentioned in Daniel 11:33; Daniel 11:35 (the word being the same which is there used), men like Mattathias (1 Maccabees 2), the staunch and firm leaders of the loyal Jews, during Antiochus" persecutions. These "are distinguished from the rest of the faithful Israelites they not only live for ever, but are eternally glorified" (Bevan). Cf. Enoch civ. 1 (-Be hopeful: for aforetime ye were put to shame through ills and affliction; but soon ye will shine as the stars of heaven, ye will shine and ye will be seen, and the portals of heaven will be opened to you"); Matthew 13:43.

as the brightness of the firmament cf. Exodus 24:10.

and they that make the many righteous] The expression, as Isaiah 53:11, -by his knowledge shall my righteous servant make the many righteous." In neither case is the verb to be understood in the later technical sense of -justify": the meaning, in both cases, is to lead to righteousnessby teaching in Isaiah 53 by instruction in the ways and will of God (-by his knowledge"), here by warning, exhortation, and example of constancy (cf. Daniel 11:33 -shall make the many to understand").

Daniel 12:5-13. Conclusion. The revelation (Daniel 11:2 to Daniel 12:4) is ended; but nothing has been said about the durationof the troubles foretold in it. And yet, to those living in the midst of them, this was a question of vital interest. Daniel accordingly asks, and receives, specific information on this point (Daniel 12:6 ff.).