What does Daniel 12:7 mean?

The man in linen, standing above the river, raised both hands toward heaven and swore by the One who lives forever: 'It will be for a time, times, and half a time. When the power of the holy people is finally broken, all this will be finished.' Daniel 12:7 - Modern Text Bible

(The answer is cryptic—'a time, times, and half a time'—meaning a set period of hardship before deliverance.)