He 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. He will attack the strongest fortressesThis phrase suggests a powerful military campaign against seemingly impregnable defenses. In the context of Daniel 11, this likely refers to the actions of a king or ruler who seeks to expand his dominion through force. Historically, this could be linked to the actions of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who aggressively expanded his territory. Theologically, it may also foreshadow the Antichrist's future actions, as described in eschatological prophecies, where he will wage war against strongholds, both physical and spiritual. 2Ch 32:1 After all these acts of faithfulness, Sennacherib… with the help of a foreign god The "foreign god" implies reliance on a deity not traditionally worshiped by the Israelites. This could refer to the Hellenistic gods introduced by Antiochus IV, who promoted the worship of Zeus. In a broader prophetic sense, it may symbolize the Antichrist's reliance on demonic powers or ideologies contrary to the God of Israel. This aligns with the biblical theme of false gods leading people astray, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 32:16-17. Psa 81:9 There must be no strange god among you,… and will greatly honor those who acknowledge him, This indicates a system of rewards for loyalty, where the ruler bestows honor and possibly wealth or power on those who support his regime. Historically, Antiochus IV rewarded those who adopted Hellenistic customs and supported his rule. In a prophetic context, this could parallel the Antichrist's manipulation of people through incentives, as seen in Revelation 13:16-17, where allegiance is rewarded with economic benefits. Est 6:11 So Haman took the robe and the horse, arrayed Mordecai,… making them rulers over many This suggests the delegation of authority to loyal followers, establishing a hierarchy that supports the ruler's agenda. Historically, this was a common practice among ancient empires to maintain control over vast territories. In a prophetic sense, it may reflect the Antichrist's strategy to consolidate power by appointing leaders who will enforce his policies, reminiscent of the ten kings in Revelation 17:12-13. Mat 25:21 His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant!’… and distributing the land for a price. This phrase implies the selling or granting of land as a means of securing loyalty or raising funds. Historically, rulers like Antiochus IV might have used land grants to reward supporters or finance military campaigns. In a prophetic interpretation, it could symbolize the Antichrist's exploitation of resources and people for personal gain, echoing the corrupt practices condemned by prophets like Micah (Micah 3:11). Mic 2:2 They covet fields and seize them; they take away houses.… Persons / Places / Events 1. The KingThis refers to a powerful ruler who acts with the support of a foreign deity, symbolizing a leader who relies on external, possibly idolatrous, influences. 2. Strongest Fortresses These represent the most secure and fortified places, symbolizing strongholds of power and influence that the king seeks to conquer. 3. Foreign God This indicates an allegiance to a deity outside of the traditional worship of Yahweh, suggesting idolatry or reliance on false gods. 4. Those Who Acknowledge Him These are individuals who support or align themselves with the king, receiving rewards and positions of power in return. 5. Distribution of Land This refers to the allocation of territories or resources, often as a reward for loyalty, indicating a transactional approach to governance. Teaching Points Reliance on God AloneBelievers are reminded to place their trust in God rather than in worldly powers or false deities. Discernment in Leadership Christians should exercise discernment in whom they follow, ensuring that leaders align with biblical principles. The Dangers of Idolatry The passage warns against the allure of idolatry and the consequences of turning away from God. Integrity Over Compromise The temptation to gain power or wealth through compromise is real, but integrity should guide our actions. Eternal Perspective Earthly rewards and power are temporary; believers should focus on eternal values and God's kingdom. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the king's reliance on a "foreign god" challenge our understanding of idolatry in today's context?2. In what ways can we identify and resist the temptation to compromise our faith for worldly gain? 3. How does the description of the king's actions in Daniel 11:39 compare to the warnings about false leaders in the New Testament? 4. What practical steps can we take to ensure our allegiance remains with God, especially when faced with powerful worldly influences? 5. How can the distribution of land for a price in Daniel 11:39 serve as a cautionary tale for how we view and use our resources? Connections to Other Scriptures Revelation 13This chapter describes the beast and its followers, drawing parallels to the allegiance to a foreign power or deity. 2 Thessalonians 2 Discusses the man of lawlessness, who exalts himself and deceives many, similar to the king in Daniel 11:39. Isaiah 14 The fall of Babylon and its king, who sought to elevate himself, mirrors the pride and ambition of the king in Daniel 11.
People Ammonites, Cushites, Daniel, Darius, Ethiopians, Habakkuk, Javan, Kittim, NubiansPlaces Edom, Egypt, Greece, Kittim, Moab, PersiaTopics Acknowledge, Acknowledged, Acknowledges, Acknowledgeth, Action, Apportioneth, Cause, Caused, Deal, Dealt, Distribute, Divide, Division, Foreign, Fortresses, Gain, Glory, Greatly, Ground, Holds, Honor, Honour, Increase, Magnify, Mass, Mightiest, Multiplieth, Note, Parcel, Places, Practise, Price, Reward, Rule, Rulers, Strange, Strong, Strongest, Strongholds, Takes, ThusDictionary of Bible Themes Daniel 11:36-45Library The Syrian Persecution. "The dead bodies of Thy servants have they given to be meat unto the fowls of the air, and the flesh of Thy saints unto the beasts of the land."--Ps. lxxix. 2. The history of Antiochus the Great is foretold in the 11th chapter of the prophet Daniel, from the 14th to the 19th verse. On the death of Ptolemy Philopator, this king entered Palestine with a great army, and easily obtained from the time-serving Jews the surrender of Jerusalem. Some of them who had forsaken their Law to gain the favour … Charlotte Mary Yonge—The Chosen People Questions. Some General Uses from this Useful Truth, that Christ is the Truth. Watching the Horizon Of the Matters to be Considered in the Councils. A Discourse of the House and Forest of Lebanon Links Daniel 11:39 NIVDaniel 11:39 NLT Daniel 11:39 ESV Daniel 11:39 NASB Daniel 11:39 KJV Daniel 11:39 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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