In Christian discussions about the end times, few Bible passages are as debated—or as mysterious—as Daniel 9:24–27, often called the “70 Weeks Prophecy.” It’s frequently cited to support the idea that a Jewish temple must be rebuilt in Jerusalem before the end comes.
But what is this prophecy actually about? And does it really teach that a future temple will be rebuilt?
Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating and often misunderstood passage.
A Quick Recap: Where Are We in the Bible?
The book of Daniel was written during Israel’s exile in Babylon. In chapter 9, Daniel is praying for his people and city (Jerusalem), confessing their sins and asking God to bring restoration. In response, the angel Gabriel gives him a vision about what’s to come.
Here’s the key section:
“Seventy weeks are decreed about your people and your holy city… to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness…” – Daniel 9:24
Then the angel breaks it down further into 7 weeks, 62 weeks, and 1 final week—making a total of 70 weeks.
Wait—70 Literal Weeks?
Not quite. Most scholars agree these are symbolic “weeks” of years, meaning each “week” represents seven years. So:
• 70 weeks = 70 x 7 = 490 years total.
The idea is that God is outlining a 490-year period in which He will bring about His redemptive purposes—culminating in the defeat of sin and the arrival of righteousness.
The Breakdown: What Happens in Each Part?
Here’s how the prophecy is divided:
- 7 weeks (49 years) – A period when Jerusalem is rebuilt after the exile.
- 62 weeks (434 years) – A longer stretch of time leading up to the appearance of an “anointed one.”
- 1 week (7 years) – A final climactic period during which major events unfold.
Now here’s the controversial part:
“After the 62 weeks, an anointed one shall be cut off… And he shall make a strong covenant… but in the middle of the week he shall put an end to sacrifice and offering.” – Daniel 9:26–27
Who Is the “Anointed One”?
Some Christians believe this refers to Jesus, who was “cut off” (killed) after the 69th week (7 + 62). His death brought an end to the Old Testament sacrificial system—not by destruction, but by fulfillment (see Hebrews 10:10–14).
Others, particularly those with a futurist view of prophecy, interpret this final “week” as a still-future 7-year tribulation period. In that case, the “he” who makes and breaks a covenant is seen as the Antichrist, not Jesus. According to this view:
- The Antichrist will make a 7-year peace agreement with Israel.
- Halfway through, he’ll break it, stop temple sacrifices, and commit a great act of blasphemy.
- This implies a rebuilt temple, since sacrifices would need to be resumed.
So—Does Daniel 9 Predict a Rebuilt Temple?
That depends on how you interpret the final “week.”
If you read it as past and fulfilled in Christ:
- The “anointed one” is Jesus.
- The end of sacrifice comes through the cross.
- No future temple is required.
If you read it as future and unfulfilled:
- The final week is still coming.
- The Antichrist will desecrate a rebuilt temple.
- Therefore, a third temple is expected.
Both views are held by sincere Christians. The first is often associated with amillennial or historic premillennial readings of prophecy. The second is typical of dispensational premillennialism.
What’s the Main Point?
Regardless of which view you take, the heart of the prophecy is about God’s redemptive plan. It’s about:
- Ending sin
- Atoning for iniquity
- Bringing in everlasting righteousness
- An “anointed one” who suffers on behalf of the people
In other words: it points to Jesus—whether past or future, literal or symbolic.
Why It Matters
Understanding Daniel’s 70 Weeks helps us interpret other prophetic texts more carefully. It also keeps us grounded. While debates about rebuilt temples and timelines can be fascinating, they should never distract us from the central message: God has acted in history to redeem the world through His Son, and He will finish what He started.
As Christians, our hope isn’t in temple architecture or geopolitical events. Our hope is in the Lamb who was slain and who will come again.
