Daniel 11- The king who exalt himself.and commentary from Bible Hub.
36Then the king will do as he pleases and will exalt and magnify himself above every god, and he will speak monstrous things against the God of gods. He will be successful until the time of wrath is completed, for what has been decreed must be accomplished. 37He will show no regard for the gods of his fathers, nor for the one desired by women, nor for any other god, because he will magnify himself above them all.
38And in their place, he will honor a god of fortresses—a god his fathers did not know—with gold, silver, precious stones, and riches. 39He will attack the strongest fortresses with the help of a foreign god and will greatly honor those who acknowledge him, making them rulers over many and distributing the land for a price.h
40At the time of the end, the king of the South will engage him in battle,i but the king of the North will storm out against him with chariots, horsemen, and many ships, invading many countries and sweeping through them like a flood. 41He will also invade the Beautiful Land, and many countries will fall. But these will be delivered from his hand: Edom, Moab, and the leaders of the Ammonites.
42He will extend his power over many countries, and not even the land of Egypt will escape. 43He will gain control of the treasures of gold and silver and over all the riches of Egypt, and the Libyans and Cuhites will also submit to him.
44But news from the east and the north will alarm him, and he will go out with great fury to destroy many and devote them to destruction.
45He will pitch his royal tents between the sea and the beautiful holy mountain, but he will meet his end with no one to help him.
Commentary from Bible Hub.
"God's Sovereignty
The chapter underscores God's control over history, as He orchestrates the rise and fall of kingdoms according to His divine plan.
The Antichrist Foreshadowed
Verses 36-45 describe a king who exalts himself above all gods, often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the Antichrist, highlighting the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil.
Faithfulness in Adversity
Despite the turmoil and persecution described, the faithful are called to stand firm, trusting in God's ultimate victory.
Practical Applications
Trust in God's Plan
In a world of uncertainty, we can find peace knowing that God is in control and His plans will prevail.
Discernment in Leadership
As we observe the rise and fall of leaders, we should pray for discernment to recognize those who align with God's purposes.
Perseverance in Faith
Like the faithful in Daniel 11, we are called to remain steadfast in our faith, even when faced with trials and opposition.
Awareness of Spiritual Warfare
Understanding the spiritual dimensions of earthly conflicts can help us remain vigilant and prayerful.
People
1. The Angelic Messenger
While not a human figure, the chapter begins with an angelic being who delivers the prophecy to Daniel. This messenger is often understood to be the same angel who appears in Daniel 10, possibly Gabriel.
2. Darius the Mede
Mentioned indirectly as the context for the prophecy (Daniel 11:1). He is the ruler during the time the angel stands to support and protect him.
3. The Kings of Persia
Daniel 11:2 refers to three more kings who will arise in Persia, followed by a fourth who will be far richer and will stir up everyone against the kingdom of Greece. These are often identified as Cambyses, Bardiya (or Smerdis), Darius I, and Xerxes I.
4. A Mighty King of Greece
In Daniel 11:3, this is commonly identified as Alexander the Great, who established a vast empire.
5. The Four Successors of Alexander
After Alexander's death, his empire is divided among four generals (Daniel 11:4). These are often identified as Ptolemy, Seleucus, Cassander, and Lysimachus.
6. The King of the South
This term is used throughout the chapter, starting in Daniel 11:5, to refer to the Ptolemaic rulers of Egypt.
7. The King of the North
Also used throughout the chapter, beginning in Daniel 11:6, to refer to the Seleucid rulers of the northern territories, including Syria.
8. A Daughter of the King of the South
In Daniel 11:6, this is often identified as Berenice, daughter of Ptolemy II, who marries Antiochus II of the Seleucid Empire.
9. A Branch from Her Roots
In Daniel 11:7, this refers to a relative of Berenice, often identified as Ptolemy III, who avenges her death.
10. A Contemptible Person
In Daniel 11:21, this is often identified as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king known for his persecution of the Jews and desecration of the temple.
11. The Prince of the Covenant
Mentioned in Daniel 11:22, this figure is often interpreted as the Jewish high priest Onias III, who was deposed during the reign of Antiochus IV.
12. The King Who Exalts Himself
In Daniel 11:36, this figure is often seen as a reference to Antiochus IV, though some interpretations also see a future antichrist figure.
Places
1. Persia
Daniel 11:2 mentions Persia as the kingdom where three more kings will arise, followed by a fourth who will be far richer and will stir up everyone against the kingdom of Greece. The Hebrew root for Persia is "פָּרַס" (Paras).
2. Greece
In Daniel 11:2, Greece is mentioned as the kingdom that will be stirred up by the fourth king of Persia. The Hebrew term used is "יָוָן" (Yavan), referring to the region and people of Greece.
3. Egypt
Egypt is referenced multiple times (e.g., Daniel 11:8, 11:42) as a significant power involved in the conflicts described. The Hebrew word for Egypt is "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim).
4. Israel
While not explicitly named as "Israel" in Daniel 11, the "Beautiful Land" or "Glorious Land" mentioned in Daniel 11:16, 41 is traditionally understood to refer to Israel. The Hebrew term is "הַצֶּבִי" (ha-tzvi), meaning "the glorious" or "the beautiful."
5. Libya
Mentioned in Daniel 11:43, Libya is described as a place that will be in submission. The Hebrew word is "לוּבִים" (Lubim), referring to the people of Libya.
6. Cush
Also in Daniel 11:43, Cush is mentioned alongside Libya. The Hebrew term "כּוּשׁ" (Kush) refers to the region south of Egypt, often associated with modern-day Sudan or Ethiopia.
Events
1. The Rise of Persian Kings
"And now I will tell you the truth: Three more kings will arise in Persia, and then a fourth, far richer than all the others. By his strength through his riches, he will stir up everyone against the kingdom of Greece." (Daniel 11:2)
This verse is often interpreted as referring to the Persian kings following Cyrus, culminating in Xerxes I, who was known for his wealth and his campaign against Greece.
2. The Emergence of a Mighty Greek King
"Then a mighty king will arise, who will rule with great authority and do as he pleases." (Daniel 11:3)
This is commonly understood to refer to Alexander the Great, who established a vast empire.
3. Division of Alexander's Empire
"After he has arisen, his empire will be broken up and parceled out toward the four winds of heaven. It will not go to his descendants, nor will it have the power he exercised, because his empire will be uprooted and given to others." (Daniel 11:4)
Alexander's empire was divided among his generals, known as the Diadochi, after his death.
4. The Kings of the South and the North
"The king of the South will become strong, but one of his commanders will become even stronger than he and will rule his own kingdom with great authority." (Daniel 11:5)
This is often seen as referring to the Ptolemaic Kingdom in Egypt (the South) and the Seleucid Empire (the North).
5. Alliance and Betrayal
"After some years they will form an alliance, and the daughter of the king of the South will go to the king of the North to make an agreement. But she will not retain her power, and his strength will not last." (Daniel 11:6)
This is interpreted as the marriage alliance between Ptolemy II's daughter Berenice and Antiochus II, which ultimately failed.
6. Conflicts Between the North and South
"But from a shoot of her roots one will arise in his place, who will come against the army and enter the fortress of the king of the North and will deal with them and prevail." (Daniel 11:7)
This refers to ongoing conflicts between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid kingdoms.
7. The Rise of a Contemptible Person
"In his place a despicable person will arise; royal honors will not be given to him, but he will come in peaceably and seize the kingdom by intrigue." (Daniel 11:21)
This is often identified as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who gained power through deceit.
8. The Abomination of Desolation
"His forces will rise up and desecrate the temple fortress. They will abolish the daily sacrifice and set up the abomination of desolation." (Daniel 11:31)
This event is linked to Antiochus IV's desecration of the Jewish temple, a significant event in Jewish history.
9. The Time of the End
"At the time of the end, the king of the South will engage him in battle, but the king of the North will storm out against him with chariots, horsemen, and many ships." (Daniel 11:40)
This is often seen as a future prophetic event, with interpretations varying among scholars.
Topics
1. The Rise of Persian Kings (Daniel 11:1-2)
The chapter begins with a prophecy about the rise of Persian kings, specifically mentioning three more kings and a fourth who will be far richer. This sets the stage for the subsequent conflicts. The Hebrew term "מֶלֶךְ" (melek) is used for "king."
2. The Greek Conquest (Daniel 11:3-4)
A mighty king, understood to be Alexander the Great, will arise and establish a vast empire, which will eventually be divided into four parts. The Hebrew word "גִּבּוֹר" (gibbor) is used for "mighty."
3. The Kings of the South and North (Daniel 11:5-6)
The chapter describes the power struggles between the kings of the South (Egypt) and the North (Syria). The Hebrew terms "נֶגֶב" (negev) for "South" and "צָפוֹן" (tsaphon) for "North" are used.
4. Continued Conflicts (Daniel 11:7-20)
This section details ongoing conflicts and alliances between the kings of the South and North, including betrayals and battles. The narrative highlights the instability and shifting power dynamics.
5. The Rise of a Contemptible Person (Daniel 11:21-24)
A contemptible person, often identified as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, will rise to power through intrigue. The Hebrew word "נִבְזֶה" (nivzeh) is used for "contemptible."
6. The Campaigns of the Northern King (Daniel 11:25-28)
The Northern king will wage war against the South, with varying success. This section emphasizes the strategic and deceptive nature of these campaigns.
7. The Desecration of the Temple (Daniel 11:29-31)
The Northern king will return and desecrate the temple, setting up the "abomination of desolation." The Hebrew term "שִׁקּוּץ" (shiqquwts) is used for "abomination."
8. The Persecution of the Faithful (Daniel 11:32-35)
Those who remain faithful to the covenant will face persecution, but some will stand firm and take action."
38And in their place, he will honor a god of fortresses—a god his fathers did not know—with gold, silver, precious stones, and riches. 39He will attack the strongest fortresses with the help of a foreign god and will greatly honor those who acknowledge him, making them rulers over many and distributing the land for a price.h
40At the time of the end, the king of the South will engage him in battle,i but the king of the North will storm out against him with chariots, horsemen, and many ships, invading many countries and sweeping through them like a flood. 41He will also invade the Beautiful Land, and many countries will fall. But these will be delivered from his hand: Edom, Moab, and the leaders of the Ammonites.
42He will extend his power over many countries, and not even the land of Egypt will escape. 43He will gain control of the treasures of gold and silver and over all the riches of Egypt, and the Libyans and Cuhites will also submit to him.
44But news from the east and the north will alarm him, and he will go out with great fury to destroy many and devote them to destruction.
45He will pitch his royal tents between the sea and the beautiful holy mountain, but he will meet his end with no one to help him.
Commentary from Bible Hub.
"God's Sovereignty
The chapter underscores God's control over history, as He orchestrates the rise and fall of kingdoms according to His divine plan.
The Antichrist Foreshadowed
Verses 36-45 describe a king who exalts himself above all gods, often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the Antichrist, highlighting the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil.
Faithfulness in Adversity
Despite the turmoil and persecution described, the faithful are called to stand firm, trusting in God's ultimate victory.
Practical Applications
Trust in God's Plan
In a world of uncertainty, we can find peace knowing that God is in control and His plans will prevail.
Discernment in Leadership
As we observe the rise and fall of leaders, we should pray for discernment to recognize those who align with God's purposes.
Perseverance in Faith
Like the faithful in Daniel 11, we are called to remain steadfast in our faith, even when faced with trials and opposition.
Awareness of Spiritual Warfare
Understanding the spiritual dimensions of earthly conflicts can help us remain vigilant and prayerful.
People
1. The Angelic Messenger
While not a human figure, the chapter begins with an angelic being who delivers the prophecy to Daniel. This messenger is often understood to be the same angel who appears in Daniel 10, possibly Gabriel.
2. Darius the Mede
Mentioned indirectly as the context for the prophecy (Daniel 11:1). He is the ruler during the time the angel stands to support and protect him.
3. The Kings of Persia
Daniel 11:2 refers to three more kings who will arise in Persia, followed by a fourth who will be far richer and will stir up everyone against the kingdom of Greece. These are often identified as Cambyses, Bardiya (or Smerdis), Darius I, and Xerxes I.
4. A Mighty King of Greece
In Daniel 11:3, this is commonly identified as Alexander the Great, who established a vast empire.
5. The Four Successors of Alexander
After Alexander's death, his empire is divided among four generals (Daniel 11:4). These are often identified as Ptolemy, Seleucus, Cassander, and Lysimachus.
6. The King of the South
This term is used throughout the chapter, starting in Daniel 11:5, to refer to the Ptolemaic rulers of Egypt.
7. The King of the North
Also used throughout the chapter, beginning in Daniel 11:6, to refer to the Seleucid rulers of the northern territories, including Syria.
8. A Daughter of the King of the South
In Daniel 11:6, this is often identified as Berenice, daughter of Ptolemy II, who marries Antiochus II of the Seleucid Empire.
9. A Branch from Her Roots
In Daniel 11:7, this refers to a relative of Berenice, often identified as Ptolemy III, who avenges her death.
10. A Contemptible Person
In Daniel 11:21, this is often identified as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king known for his persecution of the Jews and desecration of the temple.
11. The Prince of the Covenant
Mentioned in Daniel 11:22, this figure is often interpreted as the Jewish high priest Onias III, who was deposed during the reign of Antiochus IV.
12. The King Who Exalts Himself
In Daniel 11:36, this figure is often seen as a reference to Antiochus IV, though some interpretations also see a future antichrist figure.
Places
1. Persia
Daniel 11:2 mentions Persia as the kingdom where three more kings will arise, followed by a fourth who will be far richer and will stir up everyone against the kingdom of Greece. The Hebrew root for Persia is "פָּרַס" (Paras).
2. Greece
In Daniel 11:2, Greece is mentioned as the kingdom that will be stirred up by the fourth king of Persia. The Hebrew term used is "יָוָן" (Yavan), referring to the region and people of Greece.
3. Egypt
Egypt is referenced multiple times (e.g., Daniel 11:8, 11:42) as a significant power involved in the conflicts described. The Hebrew word for Egypt is "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim).
4. Israel
While not explicitly named as "Israel" in Daniel 11, the "Beautiful Land" or "Glorious Land" mentioned in Daniel 11:16, 41 is traditionally understood to refer to Israel. The Hebrew term is "הַצֶּבִי" (ha-tzvi), meaning "the glorious" or "the beautiful."
5. Libya
Mentioned in Daniel 11:43, Libya is described as a place that will be in submission. The Hebrew word is "לוּבִים" (Lubim), referring to the people of Libya.
6. Cush
Also in Daniel 11:43, Cush is mentioned alongside Libya. The Hebrew term "כּוּשׁ" (Kush) refers to the region south of Egypt, often associated with modern-day Sudan or Ethiopia.
Events
1. The Rise of Persian Kings
"And now I will tell you the truth: Three more kings will arise in Persia, and then a fourth, far richer than all the others. By his strength through his riches, he will stir up everyone against the kingdom of Greece." (Daniel 11:2)
This verse is often interpreted as referring to the Persian kings following Cyrus, culminating in Xerxes I, who was known for his wealth and his campaign against Greece.
2. The Emergence of a Mighty Greek King
"Then a mighty king will arise, who will rule with great authority and do as he pleases." (Daniel 11:3)
This is commonly understood to refer to Alexander the Great, who established a vast empire.
3. Division of Alexander's Empire
"After he has arisen, his empire will be broken up and parceled out toward the four winds of heaven. It will not go to his descendants, nor will it have the power he exercised, because his empire will be uprooted and given to others." (Daniel 11:4)
Alexander's empire was divided among his generals, known as the Diadochi, after his death.
4. The Kings of the South and the North
"The king of the South will become strong, but one of his commanders will become even stronger than he and will rule his own kingdom with great authority." (Daniel 11:5)
This is often seen as referring to the Ptolemaic Kingdom in Egypt (the South) and the Seleucid Empire (the North).
5. Alliance and Betrayal
"After some years they will form an alliance, and the daughter of the king of the South will go to the king of the North to make an agreement. But she will not retain her power, and his strength will not last." (Daniel 11:6)
This is interpreted as the marriage alliance between Ptolemy II's daughter Berenice and Antiochus II, which ultimately failed.
6. Conflicts Between the North and South
"But from a shoot of her roots one will arise in his place, who will come against the army and enter the fortress of the king of the North and will deal with them and prevail." (Daniel 11:7)
This refers to ongoing conflicts between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid kingdoms.
7. The Rise of a Contemptible Person
"In his place a despicable person will arise; royal honors will not be given to him, but he will come in peaceably and seize the kingdom by intrigue." (Daniel 11:21)
This is often identified as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who gained power through deceit.
8. The Abomination of Desolation
"His forces will rise up and desecrate the temple fortress. They will abolish the daily sacrifice and set up the abomination of desolation." (Daniel 11:31)
This event is linked to Antiochus IV's desecration of the Jewish temple, a significant event in Jewish history.
9. The Time of the End
"At the time of the end, the king of the South will engage him in battle, but the king of the North will storm out against him with chariots, horsemen, and many ships." (Daniel 11:40)
This is often seen as a future prophetic event, with interpretations varying among scholars.
Topics
1. The Rise of Persian Kings (Daniel 11:1-2)
The chapter begins with a prophecy about the rise of Persian kings, specifically mentioning three more kings and a fourth who will be far richer. This sets the stage for the subsequent conflicts. The Hebrew term "מֶלֶךְ" (melek) is used for "king."
2. The Greek Conquest (Daniel 11:3-4)
A mighty king, understood to be Alexander the Great, will arise and establish a vast empire, which will eventually be divided into four parts. The Hebrew word "גִּבּוֹר" (gibbor) is used for "mighty."
3. The Kings of the South and North (Daniel 11:5-6)
The chapter describes the power struggles between the kings of the South (Egypt) and the North (Syria). The Hebrew terms "נֶגֶב" (negev) for "South" and "צָפוֹן" (tsaphon) for "North" are used.
4. Continued Conflicts (Daniel 11:7-20)
This section details ongoing conflicts and alliances between the kings of the South and North, including betrayals and battles. The narrative highlights the instability and shifting power dynamics.
5. The Rise of a Contemptible Person (Daniel 11:21-24)
A contemptible person, often identified as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, will rise to power through intrigue. The Hebrew word "נִבְזֶה" (nivzeh) is used for "contemptible."
6. The Campaigns of the Northern King (Daniel 11:25-28)
The Northern king will wage war against the South, with varying success. This section emphasizes the strategic and deceptive nature of these campaigns.
7. The Desecration of the Temple (Daniel 11:29-31)
The Northern king will return and desecrate the temple, setting up the "abomination of desolation." The Hebrew term "שִׁקּוּץ" (shiqquwts) is used for "abomination."
8. The Persecution of the Faithful (Daniel 11:32-35)
Those who remain faithful to the covenant will face persecution, but some will stand firm and take action."
