Understanding the concept of "time" in Daniel

Abstract

The temporal axis of apocalypses has always invited a wide range of interpretations. Not only dispensational schemes since the Christian era, but especially contemporary mass suicides arising from activist millennialism, points to the role of the conceptualization of time in eschatology. Mbiti's African concept of time as well as Malina's description of Mediterranean time indicate an alternative matrix for understanding time in the book of Daniel. An investigation into commentaries on Daniel shows that commentators are rather using a Western concept of time than an ancient Near Eastern concept. The need for reorientation in the time concept for studying the apocalyptic materials of Daniel is indicated.