What is the meaning of Daniel 11:28? The king of the North “The king of the North” in this chapter points to the Seleucid ruler Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the dominant power north of Israel (cf. Daniel 11:6, 13). Earlier verses describe his advances into Egypt, but verse 27 leaves him in a diplomatic stalemate. Now the Spirit foresees his withdrawal: • Daniel 8:9–11 pictures the same king growing powerful “toward the Beautiful Land.” • Historically, after confronting Egypt, Antiochus returned north through Judea in 169 BC. will return to his land with great wealth God’s Word notes the treasure haul he carries home (see Daniel 11:8 for a similar plundering theme). Antiochus seized Egyptian riches and likely levied heavy tribute. By highlighting the loot, Scripture reminds us: • Earthly success does not equal divine approval (Psalm 73:3–12). • The Lord still keeps Antiochus on a prophetic leash; even his wealth–gathering serves the larger narrative (Proverbs 21:1). but his heart will be set against the holy covenant Despite outward victory, his inner posture is hostile to God’s covenant people and worship (Daniel 8:11–12; 11:30). Antiochus: • Entered the temple, stole sacred vessels (2 Chronicles 36:18 offers a Babylonian parallel). • Issued decrees banning sacrifices and Sabbath observance, attacking the covenant signposts (Exodus 31:13; Leviticus 16:31). His hatred illustrates Jesus’ warning that persecutors often “think they are offering a service to God” (John 16:2). so he will do damage The Hebrew idea is to act or take action. Antiochus returned through Jerusalem, wreaking tangible harm (Daniel 11:31). He: • Massacred many (cf. Daniel 8:24). • Installed a Hellenistic high priest, undermining temple authority (compare Nehemiah 13:4–9 for earlier spiritual compromise). • Confiscated wealth from the temple treasury to fund his armies (Malachi 3:8 shows God’s view of such theft). and return to his own land After venting his fury, the king withdrew to Antioch in Syria, thinking the matter settled (Daniel 11:30). Yet the narrative hints he will be back—God’s timetable, not his, controls every step (Daniel 11:29; Isaiah 46:10–11). summary Daniel 11:28 paints a precise snapshot: Antiochus IV, flush with Egyptian spoils, heads home but cannot let Israel alone. His covetous, covenant-hating heart leads him to wound Jerusalem before retiring north. The verse reassures believers that even ruthless kings fulfill God’s prophetic script, underscoring both the literal reliability of Scripture and the Lord’s sovereign care over His covenant people. |
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