Daniel 12:3

3. They that be wise See Daniel 11:33, and compare Hosea 14:9. In Hosea’s day this was a “new and beautiful doctrine” that the wise could know the ways of the Lord and walk in them. (See particularly Alexander Duff, Old Testament Theology.) We now have the equally new and beautiful doctrine that those who are thus wise shall live forever as heavenly lights. The figure of speech which would compare a wise teacher to a light was not unknown even in ancient Babylon; for on a tablet dating back to Abraham’s day, and written in the sacred Sumerian language, are found these words, “Whosoever has distinguished himself at the place of tablet writing (i.e., in the school or university) shall (may) shine as the light” (Hilprecht). But all this Babylonian wisdom pales when contrasted with Daniel’s teaching.

They that turn many to righteousness Contrast with Daniel 11:32. This is surely the Gospel in the Old Testament. (See Matthew 13:43.) These words have shone like the stars of heaven ever since this inspired seer of God flung them out before the eyes of a dark world. This is the glorious “end” of Daniel’s vision. These saints who were “stars” while they lived (Daniel 8:10), though cast down to the grave, shall be lifted up to shine eternally. It must not be forgotten that all the theology of the Hebrews sprang out of their conception of Jehovah. Jehovah shines as the sun, and therefore his saints may shine as the stars. (See previous footnote.)