What is the meaning of Daniel 11:42? He “He” refers to the king introduced in Daniel 11:36–39, a final ruler who exalts himself above every god. Scripture presents him as: • A boastful world leader (Daniel 7:24–25) • “The man of lawlessness” who opposes God (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4) • The beast who receives global worship (Revelation 13:4-7) Taken together, the pronoun points to a literal, future antagonist who stands against the Lord and His people. will extend his power Daniel 11:42a: “He will extend his power…” • The phrase pictures aggressive expansion, not mere influence but direct control. • Verse 40 shows him sweeping “like a flood,” matching Daniel 8:24: “His power shall be mighty… and he will destroy fearfully.” • Revelation 13:7 echoes the same reach: “authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation was given to him.” God allows this rise for a season, yet still sets the boundaries (Job 12:23). over many countries The conquest is wide-ranging: • “Many countries will fall” (Daniel 11:41), confirming a domino effect across the region and beyond. • Zechariah 12:2-3 shows surrounding nations gathering against Jerusalem, hinting at the same coalition. • Psalm 2:1-2 reveals the heart behind these campaigns: nations rage, kings plot, yet all under the sovereign eye of God. His advance will look unstoppable to the world, fulfilling literal prophecy spoken centuries earlier. and not even the land of Egypt Egypt was a perennial power and a symbol of security for many (Isaiah 31:1). Yet verse 42b states, “and not even the land of Egypt will escape.” • Historically, Egypt often stood as a rival to northern empires; here, it too succumbs. • Daniel 11:43 adds detail: he seizes Egypt’s gold, silver, and treasures. • Ezekiel 30:6 foretold a day when “Egypt’s proud strength will collapse,” dovetailing with Daniel’s vision. The message is clear: earthly might offers no refuge when God’s timetable advances. will escape Daniel underlines the completeness of the campaign: Egypt “will not escape.” • While Edom, Moab, and the leaders of Ammon are spared for God’s own purposes (Daniel 11:41), Egypt enjoys no such reprieve. • Isaiah 47:11 reminds us no charm can avert divinely allowed calamity; Jeremiah 46:25-26 speaks similarly of Egypt’s judgment. The king’s success is temporary, but his grip at this moment is absolute—fulfilling prophecy to the letter. summary Daniel 11:42 portrays a future ruler whose unchecked authority sweeps across nations, capturing even Egypt. Each phrase underscores literal fulfillment: one man (“He”), escalating dominion (“will extend his power”), widespread conquest (“over many countries”), and specific targets (“not even the land of Egypt will escape”). Cross-references confirm that God foretold—and limits—this reign, assuring believers that while evil may surge, the Lord’s sovereignty and prophetic word stand unshaken. |
    |