Daniel 11 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of Daniel 11

The book of Daniel was written by the prophet Daniel, who lived during the Babylonian and Persian empires. Daniel was a highly respected Jewish exile who served in the royal courts, interpreting dreams and visions. Daniel receives a vision from God in this chapter, revealing the future struggles and conflicts that will unfold between the kingdoms of the north and south.

This passage foreshadows the rise and fall of powerful rulers, alliances, and wars that will shape the course of history. We see the intricate web of political maneuvering, betrayals, and the ultimate triumph of God’s sovereign plan. The events described in this chapter echo the warnings and prophecies found in other books, such as Ezekiel’s vision of the four beasts (Ezekiel 7:1-28) and the apocalyptic visions in the book of Revelation. As we delve into this chapter, we will witness the unfolding of a grand narrative where the fate of nations hangs in the balance. The faithful will be tested, and the wicked will be held accountable. This passage serves as a reminder that, despite the turmoil and uncertainty of the world, God’s plan will prevail, and His kingdom will ultimately triumph.

Daniel 11:1-4

The passage in Daniel 11:1-4 sets the stage for the unfolding prophecy regarding the kings of the north and south. The first verse begins with an angelic messenger telling Daniel that he, the messenger, stood to confirm and strengthen Darius the Mede. This reference to Darius the Mede is important because it signifies the transition of power from the Babylonian empire to the Medo-Persian empire. This transition is significant in biblical history as it fulfills prophecies regarding the fall of Babylon and the rise of Persia, as foretold by the prophet Isaiah.

Moving on to the second verse, the angel explains that three more kings would arise in Persia after Darius. These kings are believed to be Cyrus the Great, Cambyses II, and Darius the Great. It’s fascinating to see how accurate these prophecies were, as each of these kings played a crucial role in the history of Israel. Cyrus, for example, is mentioned in the book of Ezra for issuing a decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Darius the Great is also noteworthy for his decree supporting the rebuilding of the temple.

The third verse speaks of a mighty king who will arise and rule with great dominion. Many scholars believe this king to be Alexander the Great, who famously conquered vast territories, including the Persian Empire, in a relatively short period. Alexander’s swift conquests and his influence on the Hellenization of the known world are well-documented in historical records. This verse serves as a remarkable testament to the accuracy of biblical prophecy and the foresight granted to Daniel through divine revelation.

Finally, in the fourth verse, it is prophesied that this mighty king’s empire will be divided into four parts. After Alexander’s death, his empire was indeed divided among his generals: Cassander, Lysimachus, Seleucus, and Ptolemy. The Seleucid Empire and the Ptolemaic Kingdom, in particular, become prominent players in the history of Israel during the period of the intertestamental period, setting the stage for the events leading up to the Maccabean Revolt. These verses in Daniel 11 not only provide a historical account of the rise and fall of various empires but also serve as a powerful testament to the sovereignty of God and His control over the affairs of nations. The accuracy of these prophecies underscores the divine inspiration behind the book of Daniel and points to a larger biblical theme of God’s ultimate plan and purpose being fulfilled through the course of human history.

Daniel 11:5-9

A progression of historical events foretold in a vision given to Daniel can be seen in Daniel 11:5-9. It mentions the “king of the South” and the “king of the North,” symbolizing two regions or kingdoms. The “king of the South” often referred to the Ptolemaic dynasty of Egypt, while the “king of the North” represented the Seleucid dynasty based in Syria.

Verse 5 describes the daughter of the king of the South (Ptolemy II Philadelphus) being given in marriage to the king of the North (Antiochus II Theos) in an effort to establish peace between the two kingdoms. However, this alliance ultimately fails, as the daughter of the king of the South does not retain her power, and neither does he. This is a reference to the political maneuvers and alliances that were common among kingdoms at that time to maintain power and control over regions.

The political marriages and alliances between royal families were common strategies to secure power and peace. The failure of these alliances highlights the unpredictability and impermanence of human schemes. It also serves as a reminder that even the most well-thought-out plans can crumble in the face of God’s ultimate sovereignty.

Verse 6 mentions that the “branch of her roots” would come to take the place of the daughter of the South, indicating a change in the political landscape as a son from the king of the South would rise up. This could refer to Ptolemy III Euergetes who avenged his sister’s mistreatment at the hands of the Seleucids by launching a military campaign against them.

The shifting alliances and conflicts described in these verses remind us of the transient nature of earthly power and the futility of relying solely on human strength. It underscores the importance of trusting in God’s ultimate plan and sovereignty, knowing that human kingdoms rise and fall, but His kingdom is everlasting. These verses in Daniel 11 provide a historical framework for understanding the political dynamics between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid empires. They serve as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power and the importance of trusting in God’s ultimate sovereignty over the affairs of nations. We reflect on these passages and are encouraged to place our trust in God’s unchanging and eternal kingdom rather than the fleeting powers of this world.

Daniel 11:10-13

His sons shall wage war and assemble a multitude of great forces, which shall keep coming and overflow and pass through, and again shall carry the war as far as his fortress. Then the king of the south, moved with rage, shall come out and fight against the king of the north. He shall raise a great multitude, but it shall be given into his hand. And when the multitude is taken away, his heart will be exalted, and he will cast down tens of thousands, but he will not prevail. For the king of the north shall again raise a multitude, greater than the first. And after some years, he shall come on with a great army and abundant supplies.”

This passage in Daniel 11 delves into the intricate details of the power struggle and conflicts between the kings of the North and South. The sons who wage war are often interpreted as successors of historical figures like the Seleucid kings of the North and the Ptolemaic kings of the South. These verses reflect the ongoing historical conflicts between these ancient kingdoms as they vied for power and territory, particularly during the time of the Maccabean revolt.

The king of the North and the king of the South engaging in battle symbolize the continual struggles for dominance between these two rival kingdoms. The ebb and flow of power, victories, and defeats depicted in these verses underscore the transient nature of human power and the importance of remaining steadfast in faith despite the tumultuous events in the world.

The concept of exaltation followed by defeat serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the fleeting nature of earthly victories. It conveys the Biblical message that true strength and victory come from God, not from military might or human ambition. Proverbs 16:18 echoes this sentiment, stating, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”

Furthermore, the cyclical nature of conflict described in these verses highlights the repetitive patterns of human history marked by wars, power struggles, and the rise and fall of empires. It serves as a reminder of the impermanence of worldly kingdoms and the ultimate sovereignty of God over the affairs of humanity. Ecclesiastes 1:9 captures this sentiment, “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. Daniel 11:10-13 provides a rich tapestry of historical events and spiritual lessons that transcend time. It invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human nature, the consequences of pride and ambition, and the enduring truth that God’s plans ultimately prevail over the tumult of worldly conflicts.

Daniel 11:14-19

The passage in Daniel 11:14-19 describes the ongoing power struggle between the kings of the North and the kings of the South. The verses mention an evil group of rebels within Israel who attempted to seize control of the kingdom but failed, leading to further instability in the region. Let’s break down each section of these verses for a deeper understanding.

Verse 14 states, “Now in those times many shall rise against the king of the South. Also, violent men of your people shall exalt themselves in fulfillment of the vision, but they shall fall.” This verse is pointing to a period of political turmoil in the South, where many adversaries rise up against the king. The mention of violent men within Israel who try to seize power but ultimately fail could be a reference to the internal strife and power struggles that often plagued the nation of Israel throughout its history. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of rebellion and the consequences of seeking power through unjust means. The verses 15-16 mention the king of the North coming to besiege a fortified city. This could be a continuation of the power struggle between the kings of the North and South, with military actions being taken to expand territories and consolidate power. Such historical context of conquests and wars aligns with the turbulent periods that Israel faced, especially during the time of foreign invasions and occupations.

Verse 17 focuses on the actions of the king of the North and his daughter who will come to bring destruction but will not succeed or retain power. This could allude to the attempts of foreign rulers to subjugate and control other nations, only to eventually lose their hold on power. This theme of the rise and fall of earthly kings highlights the transient nature of human authority and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all nations. A ruler turns his face toward the coastlands and captures many in verses 18-19, mentioning another shift in the focus. This could represent a different leader or kingdom expanding its influence through maritime conquests. The mention of a commander putting an end to the reproach caused by him signifies a turning point in the conflict or oppression that has been inflicted, bringing about a resolution or justice in the situation. A recurring theme of power struggles, conquests, and the rise and fall of rulers is seen in interpreting these verses. These events serve as reminders of the impermanence of human kingdoms and the ultimate authority of God over all nations. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of greed, rebellion, and seeking power through unjust means. We can draw parallels to our own lives and societies by examining these historical events through a spiritual lens, reminding us to seek righteousness, humility, and submission to God’s will rather than pursuing worldly power and glory.

Daniel 11:20-24

A powerful king who will arise is the focus of the passage in Daniel 11:20-24. Let’s break it down:

Verse 20: “Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes in the glory of the kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in battle.” This verse speaks of a successor of a powerful king who will impose heavy taxes on the people to maintain the glory of the kingdom. Despite his efforts to establish his rule, he will be short-lived and will not be brought down through anger or war. This may symbolize the transient nature of earthly power and the consequences of ruling through oppression and greed.

Verse 21: “And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries.” Here, a despicable and dishonored individual seizes power through deceit and flattery rather than through rightful succession or merit. This portrayal highlights the dangers of pursuing power through dishonesty and manipulation. Jacob deceived his father Isaac to receive a blessing meant for his brother Esau in the Bible, showing similar themes of deceit and manipulation in the stories of characters.

Verse 22: “And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him, and shall be broken; yea, also the prince of the covenant.” This verse suggests that the despicable ruler will bring about destruction and devastation, overwhelming those who oppose him, even causing harm to the prince of the covenant. This serves as a warning about the consequences of following leaders who operate with deceit and cruelty, leading to ruin for both themselves and those under their authority.

Verse 23: “And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully: for he shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people.” The deceitful ruler mentioned in the previous verses continues to operate with cunning and deception, leveraging alliances to strengthen his position and increase his power. This speaks to the dangers of placing trust in worldly alliances and the importance of discerning the true intentions of those in authority. An example of the consequences of ungodly alliances can be seen in the story of King Ahaz of Judah, who sought the help of the Assyrian Empire instead of relying on God, leading to further strife and eventual downfall (2 Chronicles 28).

Verse 24: “He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers’ fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea, and he shall forecast his devices against the strongholds, even for a time.” This verse describes how the deceitful ruler will amass wealth and resources by exploiting the prosperity of the land, using his cunning strategies to maintain his power and control. This could be a cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked greed and ambition, as well as a reminder of the fleeting nature of worldly wealth and power, which are not lasting or satisfying. The Bible often warns against the pursuit of riches and treasures on earth, advocating for a focus on spiritual wealth and righteousness (Matthew 6:19-21). These verses in Daniel 11 serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pursuing power through deceit, oppression, and manipulation. The rise and fall of rulers highlighted in this passage illustrate the transient nature of worldly power and the importance of seeking righteousness and truth in all aspects of leadership. The themes of deceit, greed, and consequences of ungodly alliances are recurrent throughout the Bible, reminding readers to be discerning in their choices and to prioritize spiritual wealth above temporal treasures.

Daniel 11:25-28

A prophecy in the book of Daniel 11:25-28 delves into the intricate political machinations of ancient times. Let’s break down this verse into its significant sections and expound on their meanings in the context of the Bible.

Beginning with verse 25: “With a large army he will stir up his strength and courage against the king of the South. The king of the South will wage war with a large and very powerful army, but he will not be able to stand because of the plots devised against him.” Here, we see a struggle for power between the king of the North and the king of the South. Historically, these refer to the Seleucid Empire (North) and the Ptolemaic Empire (South), who were constantly vying for control over the region of Palestine. This ongoing conflict serves as a backdrop for the larger themes of power struggles and political intrigue that are common in the Bible. The futility of human efforts to establish lasting power and dominance is a prevalent theme throughout the Bible, reminding us of the ultimate sovereignty of God over the affairs of men.

Moving on to verse 26: “Those who eat from the king’s provisions will try to destroy him; his army will be swept away, and many will fall in battle.” This verse portrays a scene of betrayal and internal strife within the king’s court, resulting in the downfall of the king and his forces. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of placing one’s trust in earthly powers and rulers, rather than placing one’s faith in God. The Bible often warns against the fleeting nature of human allegiances and the need to anchor one’s trust in the unchanging nature of God.

Verse 27 continues: “The two kings, with their hearts bent on evil, will sit at the same table and lie to each other, but to no avail, because an end will still come at the appointed time.” This verse speaks to the deceitful nature of human alliances and the inevitability of God’s appointed time for judgment. Despite the intricate schemes and cunning of men, God’s divine plan will ultimately prevail. This echoes the Biblical message that God’s timing is perfect and that His justice will come to pass, regardless of the deceptive actions of men.

Concluding with verse 28: “The king of the North will return to his own country with great wealth, but his heart will be set against the holy covenant. He will take action against it and then return to his own country.” Here, we witness the king of the North’s return to his kingdom with plunder from his conquests, but his heart remains hardened against the covenant with God. This serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of being consumed by earthly riches and power, which can lead one away from God and His commandments. The Bible frequently warns against the pursuit of material wealth at the expense of one’s spiritual well-being, underscoring the importance of prioritizing one’s relationship with God above all temporal possessions. Timeless lessons about the fleeting nature of human power, the faithfulness of God’s timing, the consequences of deceit and betrayal, and the dangers of placing one’s trust in worldly wealth are found in the intricate web of political intrigue and power struggles depicted in Daniel 11:25-28. These verses remind us of the overarching themes of the Bible, emphasizing the need for steadfast faith in God amidst the tumultuous affairs of the world.

Daniel 11:29-35

A glimpse of the historical events leading up to the time of the end is seen in Daniel 11:29-35, providing a prophetic account of conflicts and power struggles that will occur. Let’s break down this passage into important sections for a clearer understanding.

Verse 29 mentions “At the appointed time he will return and come into the south, but it will not be this time as it was before.” Here, “he” likely refers to Antiochus III, also known as Antiochus the Great, a Seleucid king who sought to expand his empire. The reference to coming into the south could imply his invasion of Egypt. This verse indicates a time of conflict and instability in the region, with power shifting between various kingdoms.

Moving on to verse 30, it states, “For the ships of Kittim will come against him; therefore he will be disheartened and will return and become enraged at the holy covenant and take action; so he will come back and show regard for those who forsake the holy covenant.” The term “Kittim” is often interpreted as referring to the island of Cyprus or the Roman Empire. This verse speaks of a naval power that opposes Antiochus III, leading to his retreat and subsequent anger towards the holy covenant, suggesting his hostility towards the Jewish people and their religious practices.

Verse 31 continues the narrative, “Forces from him will arise, desecrate the sanctuary fortress, and do away with the regular sacrifice. And they will set up the abomination of desolation.” This is a crucial and prophetic verse that points to the desecration of the Jewish temple by Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the son of Antiochus III. Antiochus IV’s actions of sacrificing a pig on the altar of the temple and setting up a statue of Zeus are seen as a foreshadowing of the future abomination of desolation mentioned in the New Testament by Jesus in Matthew 24:15. Verse 32 says, “By smooth words he will turn to godlessness those who act wickedly toward the covenant,” and those who know their God will display strength and take action.”” This verse shows the influence of Antiochus IV in leading people away from their faith, but it also highlights the resilience and faithfulness of those who remain true to God, standing firm in times of trials and tribulations. This contrasts the wicked with the righteous, emphasizing the importance of staying faithful to God even in the face of persecution.

Finally, in verse 35, we read, “Some of those who have insight will fall, in order to refine, purge, and make them pure until the end time; because it is still to come at the appointed time.” This verse speaks of a refining process through suffering, where the faithful may face trials and persecution, but it serves to purify and strengthen their faith. This idea of refinement through trials is echoed in other parts of the Bible, such as James 1:2-4, where it is written that trials produce perseverance and strengthen one’s faith. The passage in Daniel 11:29-35 offers a prophetic insight into the historical events surrounding the reigns of the Seleucid kings and their impact on the Jewish people. It underscores the timeless message of remaining faithful to God, even in the midst of adversity, reminding believers of the ultimate victory that awaits those who persevere in their faith.

Daniel 11:36-39

A powerful king exalts himself above all gods and speaks outrageous things against the God of gods in Daniel 11:36-39. This king is often interpreted as a representation of the Antichrist or a tyrannical ruler who reigns with great authority. This figure is described as one who honors a god of fortresses and a god unknown to his ancestors, indicating a departure from traditional beliefs. This king is also said to reward those who acknowledge him, demonstrating a desire for worship and adoration even above spiritual truths.

The description of this king in Daniel 11 is a reminder of the dangers of pride, arrogance, and the pursuit of power at the expense of faith and humility before God. It serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of placing oneself above God and seeking worship and glory for oneself. Throughout the Bible, there are various references to individuals who have fallen into the trap of pride and self-exaltation, such as King Nebuchadnezzar in the book of Daniel itself (Daniel 4:28-37). We, as Christians, are reminded to remain humble and to always place God at the center of our lives. The story of the powerful king in Daniel 11 serves as a warning against the allure of earthly power and the transient nature of human authority compared to the eternal sovereignty of God. It prompts believers to reflect on their own motivations and to ensure that their actions and words are in alignment with God’s will, rather than seeking glory for themselves.

Furthermore, the verses in Daniel 11 also speak to the broader theme of spiritual warfare and the ongoing battle between good and evil. The imagery of a king who exalts himself above all gods can be seen as a symbol of the ultimate rebellion against God and His kingdom. It highlights the ongoing struggle between the forces of darkness and light, and the importance of remaining steadfast in faith and obedience to God’s commandments. The verses in Daniel 11:36-39 remind us of the dangers of pride, self-exaltation, and the pursuit of power at the expense of our relationship with God. They prompt believers to examine their own hearts and actions, ensuring that they are always seeking to honor and glorify God above all else. The story of the powerful king serves as a cautionary tale and a call to humility, faith, and obedience in the face of worldly temptations and spiritual battles.

Daniel 11:40-45

The passage in Daniel 11:40-45 speaks of a time of great conflict and turmoil. Let’s break it down into sections and provide commentary on each of them.

Verse 40 mentions the “time of the end,” which is believed by many to refer to the End Times or the eschatological period. This time is characterized by intense conflicts and battles, as mentioned in the following verses. This sets the stage for the events that are to follow, signaling the culmination of God’s plan for the world. Verse 41 references various countries and kingdoms, such as Edom, Moab, and Ammon. These regions were traditionally enemies of Israel and are often symbolic of opposition to God’s people. The actions of these nations in the End Times may signify a gathering against God’s chosen people, leading to a final conflict between good and evil.

Verse 42 mentions the “king of the South,” which could refer to a powerful ruler or kingdom in the southern region. This leader will come against the “king of the North,” representing another powerful force. The battles between these two factions could symbolize the ongoing spiritual warfare between God’s kingdom and the forces of darkness. The verses 43-44 describe the “eastern” and “northern” powers that will trouble the king of the North. These regions could represent specific nations or forces that will play significant roles in the End Times conflict. The mention of Egypt also holds symbolic significance, as Egypt historically represents a place of oppression and captivity for God’s people. This could foreshadow a time of persecution and struggle for believers in the last days.

Finally, in verse 45, we see the king of the North meeting his end “between the sea and the beautiful holy mountain.” This could signify a final showdown or judgment against the forces of evil at a sacred location. The defeat of this king could symbolize the ultimate triumph of righteousness and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom. The Book of Daniel often uses symbolic language to convey spiritual truths and prophetic visions, so it is important to remember that when interpreting this passage. The events described may not have a literal fulfillment but can serve as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and ultimate victory over evil. The overarching message remains one of hope, faith, and the assurance that God is in control, even in the midst of chaos and upheaval.

When delving into the symbolism and imagery of Daniel’s prophecies, it is essential to consider other passages in the Bible that shed light on similar themes. Verses from the book of Revelation, for example, offer further insights into the End Times and the final defeat of Satan and his allies. We can gain a more comprehensive understanding of God’s plan for the future and His ultimate triumph over all powers and principalities by connecting these prophetic threads across different books of the Bible.

After Daniel 11

The chapter concluded with a vivid description of the battles and conflicts that would engulf the region in the years to come. The prophecy foretold of a mighty king who would rise up and wage war against his enemies, bringing devastation and upheaval to the land. I, as the reverend, knew that this was a sobering reminder of the fragility of human affairs and the need for us to turn our hearts towards the divine. We will explore how the faithful can find solace and strength in the face of such tumultuous times, and how the promises of God can offer hope and guidance in the midst of the storm in the next chapter.