Definition: But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, [even] to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It’s a pretty intriguing one with a lot of meaning! Here's what it says in simpler terms: “But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, [even] to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "But thou, O Daniel..." : This is a personal address. It's talking directly to you , the reader. "...shut up the words..." : This means to carefully control what information is being shared or spoken about. Think of it like putting a lock on something – preventing it from spreading too far. "...and seal the book..." : This is where it gets really significant. The "book" refers to a record, perhaps a prophecy or a plan. “Sealing” suggests protecting and preserving this information. "[even] to the time of the end:" : This is a crucial part. It means this protection and preservation will happen eventually , during a very important and significant period in history. “The time of the end” refers to a specific, pivotal moment – perhaps the end of times, or a major turning point. "Many shall run to and fro..." : This is about change . It suggests that information will be widely available, leading to lots of people seeking it out, exploring it, and perhaps even getting confused or overwhelmed. It speaks to a lot of movement and activity. "...and knowledge shall be increased." : Ultimately, this verse emphasizes the benefit of this careful control and sharing of information. It’s not just about stopping things; it's about amplifying understanding – making more people aware of important truths. Overall Meaning - A Message About Waiting & Revelation: Many Christians interpret this verse as a message about waiting for Christ’s return. It suggests that God has prepared us, and we should be mindful of what we share, to help us prepare ourselves for a time when He will come back and reveal His plan for the world. It's about being wise and understanding the future, even amidst uncertainty. Think of it like this: It’s saying that while things might seem chaotic now, God is working behind the scenes, preparing everything for a great transformation – a time when truth will be revealed and our lives will be changed profoundly. Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?