"'For a time, times, and half a time' [Daniel 12:7f]. I have stated my objection to the opinion of those who think one year and two and a half to be here intended. I confess the passage ought to be understood of that pollution of the Temple which the Prophet has already treated [Daniel 7:23-25 & 9:24-27]…. With reference to the doctrine here delivered, its meaning is very simple: 'time' means a long period; 'times' a longer period; and 'a half' means the end or closing period.
"The sum of the whole, is this: many years must elapse — before God fulfils what His Prophet had declared…. I admit the allusion to years, but the words are not to be understood literally but metaphorically….
