דניאל, פרק ח׳, פסוק י״ד

Following a deep inquiry during a prophetic vision, the response arrives as a profound riddle, concealing the exact end of the exile and the timing of the ultimate redemption. The speaking angel addresses Daniel directly, ensuring this revelation is delivered to him personally [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].

The allotted time is described through the imagery of evening and morning. The primary approach among commentators is to understand this as a historical metaphor of darkness and light. The evening represents the period of destruction, hardship, and exile, while the morning symbolizes the dawn of the future redemption [מלבי״ם, יוסף אבן יחיא]. This concept is tied to the prophetic promise that light will emerge at evening time, meaning the ultimate salvation will sprout specifically from within the deepest darkness [רש״י, מצודת דוד].

Regarding the specified duration of two thousand three hundred, the primary approach among commentators is that this number represents years. Rather than referring to the brief period of distress during the Hasmonean era, it points toward the final end of days and the arrival of the Messiah [מלבי״ם, יוסף אבן יחיא]. However, opinions differ on when this countdown begins. Some suggest the starting point is completely hidden and will only become clear in retrospect once the Messiah arrives [מצודת דוד]. Others maintain that the calculation begins on the very day of the vision, extending two thousand three hundred years until the complete redemption [מלבי״ם, יוסף אבן יחיא]. Additionally, a different perspective suggests the number might not represent years at all, but rather other units of time, such as days [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

At the conclusion of this vast period, holiness will be restored and vindicated, a concept understood on several levels. Physically and nationally, the Temple and the holy status of the Israelites will be victorious. They will no longer be oppressed and will return to their original rightful place [אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Spiritually, the sins of the nation will be forgiven, the harsh decrees of the long exile will be canceled, and the people will experience the goodness promised by God [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. Ultimately, this process will lead to global recognition. The righteousness of the holy nation will be brought to light, and all people will recognize the truth of their faith, joining together to serve God forever [מלבי״ם, יוסף אבן יחיא].