What does Daniel 12:8 mean?

After hearing a lengthy prophetic message (Daniel 11:2—12:4), Daniel now sees three beings. The first is the one who delivered the predictions: a shining figure above the Tigris River (Daniel 10:4–6). The two additional figures probably look like men, and are probably angels, but Scripture says little about them. The primary figure, who is most likely the angel Gabriel (Daniel 8:15–16; 9:21–22; 10:18–21; Luke 1:26) is then asked a question about the timing of these events (Daniel 12:5–6).

The angel's answer is a reference to "a time, times, and half a time." Prophetically, this would match with a period of three-and-one-half years, or forty-two months. That corresponds to other biblical prophecies about the "great tribulation" of the end times (Daniel 7:25; Revelation 12:6, 14; 13:5).

Daniel has heard these questions and answers. Still, he hasn't fully grasped what everything means. His question seems to emphasize the ultimate outcome. Daniel had received some information about the eternal kingdom. He knew that those who followed God would be part of that (Daniel 7:14, 22, 27). Yet much of what Daniel has been told is symbolic and shadowy. Daniel has scarce information about Christ's return to earth or the nature of the thousand-year kingdom that follows.

The angel's answer is essentially to tell Daniel that it's not his concern (Daniel 12:9). Looking back, we know that prophets beyond Daniel's lifetime provided more details about the end times. Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi would write what was not fully revealed to Daniel.