Daniel 11:17

He will resolve to come with the strength of his whole kingdom, and will reach an agreement with the king of the South. He will give him a daughter in marriage in order to overthrow the kingdom, but his plan will not succeed or help him.

Study Bible

He will resolve
This phrase indicates a determined decision or plan. In the context of Daniel 11, it refers to a king's strategic and deliberate action. The Hebrew root word here is "שׂוּם" (sum), which means to set, place, or appoint. This suggests a purposeful and intentional act, highlighting the king's resolve to achieve his objectives. Historically, this reflects the calculated political maneuvers of rulers in the Hellenistic period, particularly those of the Seleucid and Ptolemaic dynasties.

to come with the strength of his whole kingdom
This phrase emphasizes the full might and resources of a kingdom being mobilized. The Hebrew word for "strength" is "כֹּחַ" (koach), which denotes power, force, or capacity. It underscores the comprehensive nature of the king's efforts, involving all available military and political resources. In the historical context, this reflects the extensive campaigns and alliances formed by Hellenistic rulers to expand their influence and control.

and will make an agreement with him
The concept of making an agreement, or covenant, is central to biblical narratives. The Hebrew word "בְּרִית" (berit) is often used to describe covenants, which are solemn and binding agreements. This phrase suggests a diplomatic approach, where the king seeks to secure his objectives through negotiation and treaty. Historically, this reflects the alliances and marriages arranged between ruling families to secure peace and mutual benefit.

and give him a daughter in marriage
This phrase highlights the use of marriage as a political tool. The giving of a daughter in marriage was a common practice to seal alliances and ensure loyalty between kingdoms. The Hebrew word "נָתַן" (natan) means to give or present, indicating a strategic offering. In the historical context, this likely refers to the marriage alliances between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic dynasties, where daughters were married off to secure political alliances.

to destroy the kingdom
This phrase reveals the underlying motive of the king's actions. The Hebrew word "שָׁחַת" (shachat) means to destroy, corrupt, or ruin. It suggests a hidden agenda behind the seemingly peaceful gesture of marriage. The king's ultimate goal is to undermine and weaken the opposing kingdom. Historically, this reflects the treacherous and cunning strategies employed by rulers to destabilize their rivals and expand their own power.

but it will not succeed or help him
This concluding phrase indicates the failure of the king's plan. The Hebrew words "לֹא" (lo) and "עָזַר" (azar) mean "not" and "help" or "support," respectively. Despite the king's calculated efforts, his scheme does not achieve the desired outcome. This reflects the biblical theme of divine sovereignty, where human plans are subject to God's ultimate will. Historically, it suggests that despite political maneuvering, the outcomes were often unpredictable and beyond human control.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The King of the North
This refers to a ruler from the Seleucid Empire, historically identified as Antiochus III, who sought to expand his influence and power.

2. The King of the South
This is typically understood as the ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom in Egypt, with whom Antiochus III sought to make an alliance.

3. The Daughter
Historically, this is believed to be Cleopatra I, the daughter of Antiochus III, who was given in marriage to Ptolemy V of Egypt as part of a political strategy.

4. Marriage Alliance
A common political strategy in ancient times, where marriages were used to secure alliances and peace between rival kingdoms.

5. Failed Strategy
Despite the marriage alliance, the plan to destroy or control the kingdom through this union did not succeed.

Teaching Points

The Limits of Human Schemes
Human plans, no matter how well-crafted, are ultimately subject to God's sovereign will. We should seek God's guidance in our plans and trust in His ultimate purpose.

The Role of Political Alliances
While political alliances can be beneficial, they should not be relied upon as the ultimate source of security. Our trust should be in God, not in human institutions or agreements.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This passage reminds us that God is in control of the rise and fall of nations. We can find peace in knowing that God’s purposes will prevail, even when political situations seem uncertain.

The Importance of Integrity in Relationships
The use of marriage as a political tool in this passage serves as a caution against manipulating relationships for personal gain. We are called to integrity and sincerity in our relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the failed strategy of Antiochus III illustrate the limitations of human plans when they are not aligned with God's will?

2. In what ways can we apply the lesson of God's sovereignty over nations to our current political climate?

3. How can we ensure that our personal and professional relationships are built on integrity rather than manipulation?

4. What other biblical examples can you think of where human plans were thwarted by God's intervention?

5. How can we balance the use of wisdom in planning with a trust in God's ultimate control over our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 8:10
This verse speaks to the futility of plans that are not aligned with God's will, similar to the failed strategy of Antiochus III.

Proverbs 19:21
Highlights that many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails, reflecting the ultimate failure of human schemes against divine sovereignty.

Psalm 33:10-11
Emphasizes that the Lord foils the plans of the nations, which connects to the theme of God's sovereignty over human political maneuvers.