Daniel 11:17

He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole kingdom, and upright ones with him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him the daughter of women, corrupting her: but she shall not stand on his side, neither be for him.

Daniel 11:17 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to a prophetic vision given to Daniel concerning future events. Daniel 11 describes a series of conflicts and alliances between powerful kings and kingdoms, often interpreted as referring to events after Daniel’s time, particularly during the Hellenistic period when the Seleucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms, successors to Alexander the Great’s empire, vied for power.

Meaning

The phrase “He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole kingdom” refers to a specific ruler or king determined to invade a territory or engage in a military campaign. “The strength of his whole kingdom” suggests a significant military force. “Upright ones with him; thus shall he do” likely describes the king’s allies or supporters who join him in his military endeavors. The term “upright ones” may mean equitable terms or allies, not necessarily morally upright people.

“And he shall give him the daughter of women, corrupting her” indicates the king gives a woman in marriage to someone else. “The daughter of women” signifies a woman of distinction, possibly a princess or prominent figure. The marriage alliance may be intended to secure a political alliance or strengthen existing ones. However, the verse suggests the king’s intentions are corrupt, indicating a hidden agenda or ulterior motive behind the marriage—likely to destroy or overthrow the southern kingdom from within.

“But she shall not stand on his side, neither be for him” reveals that despite the marriage alliance, the woman will not support the king or stand on his side. The alliance will not achieve its intended purpose, possibly due to the woman’s loyalty to her own people or her unwillingness to comply with the king’s corrupt intentions.

Biblical connections

This verse is part of the detailed historical prophecy in Daniel 11, which accurately describes the political machinations of the Hellenistic period. The failure of this plan sets the stage for the continuing narrative of the northern king’s campaigns in the following verses.

Application

This passage demonstrates that even the most carefully devised human plans, backed by full military strength and diplomatic cunning, can fail. God’s sovereign purposes are not thwarted by such schemes. The verse also shows the use of marriage as a political tool, treating the daughter as a means to an end, and the ultimate futility of such manipulation. It reminds believers that human schemes, however powerful, cannot override God’s sovereign will.

Reflection

Interpretations of prophetic passages may vary, and scholars and theologians may offer different viewpoints on the exact meanings of these verses. Therefore, it is recommended to consult various commentaries and study resources for a more comprehensive understanding of the passage.