Daniel 11:37

He 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.

Study Bible

He will show no regard for the gods of his fathers
This phrase suggests a deliberate rejection of traditional religious beliefs. The Hebrew word for "regard" is "biyn," which implies understanding or consideration. Historically, this could refer to a ruler who dismisses the deities worshiped by his ancestors, indicating a break from cultural and religious heritage. In a broader scriptural context, this reflects a pattern of apostasy seen throughout the Bible, where individuals or nations turn away from the faith of their forebears.

nor for the desire of women
The phrase "desire of women" has been interpreted in various ways. Some scholars suggest it refers to natural affections or desires, possibly indicating celibacy or a lack of interest in traditional family roles. The Hebrew word "chemdah" means desire or delight, which can also imply a broader disregard for what is typically valued by society. This could symbolize a leader who is indifferent to personal relationships or societal norms, focusing solely on power and self-exaltation.

nor will he show regard for any god
Here, the text emphasizes a complete dismissal of all deities, not just those of his heritage. The Hebrew word "elohim" is used for "god," which can refer to any divine being or power. This phrase underscores the character's arrogance and self-sufficiency, as he places himself above all forms of worship and divine authority. This attitude is reminiscent of other biblical figures who defy God, such as Pharaoh in Exodus, highlighting a recurring theme of human pride and rebellion against divine order.

because he will magnify himself above all
The phrase "magnify himself" comes from the Hebrew "gadal," meaning to grow or become great. This indicates an extreme form of self-exaltation, where the individual elevates himself above all others, including divine entities. Historically, this could be seen in rulers who demanded worship or absolute loyalty, reflecting the ultimate form of idolatry—self-worship. In a spiritual sense, this serves as a warning against pride and the dangers of placing oneself above God, a theme echoed throughout Scripture, particularly in the accounts of Lucifer and the Tower of Babel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The King
This passage refers to a king who is characterized by his arrogance and self-exaltation. He is often interpreted as a type of antichrist figure, representing ultimate rebellion against God.

2. Gods of his fathers
This phrase suggests the traditional deities or religious practices of the king's ancestors, which he disregards.

3. Desire of women
This could refer to a cultural or religious expectation, possibly linked to the Messiah, whom Jewish women desired to bear, or it could indicate a general disregard for natural affections and relationships.

4. Self-exaltation
The king's primary characteristic is his pride and self-glorification, placing himself above all divine authority.

5. End Times Context
This passage is often viewed within the broader eschatological framework of Daniel, pointing to events in the end times.

Teaching Points

Understanding Pride and Self-Exaltation
Pride is a root sin that leads to rebellion against God. Believers are called to humility, recognizing God's sovereignty and authority.

Disregard for Tradition and Faith
The king's rejection of the "gods of his fathers" can be seen as a warning against abandoning foundational truths and faith traditions for self-serving ideologies.

The Role of Affections and Desires
The phrase "desire of women" can remind us of the importance of natural affections and relationships, which should not be neglected or disdained.

Eschatological Awareness
Understanding the characteristics of the antichrist figure helps believers remain vigilant and discerning in the face of spiritual deception.

Magnifying God Above All
In contrast to the king's self-exaltation, Christians are called to magnify God above all, living lives that reflect His glory and authority.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the king in Daniel 11:37 challenge us to examine our own attitudes towards pride and self-exaltation?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we do not disregard the foundational truths of our faith, as the king disregarded the "gods of his fathers"?

3. How can the phrase "desire of women" inform our understanding of the importance of relationships and affections in our spiritual lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the king in Daniel 11:37 and the "man of lawlessness" in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, and how does this inform our understanding of end times?

5. How can we actively magnify God above all in our daily lives, countering the self-exalting tendencies seen in the king of Daniel 11:37?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4
This passage describes the "man of lawlessness" who exalts himself above all that is called God, paralleling the self-exaltation seen in Daniel 11:37.

Revelation 13:5-6
The beast in Revelation blasphemes God and exalts itself, similar to the king in Daniel 11:37.

Isaiah 14:13-14
The pride and self-exaltation of Lucifer, who sought to ascend above God, mirrors the attitude of the king in Daniel 11:37.