Daniel 11:28

Then shall he return into his land with great riches; and his heart shall be against the holy covenant; and he shall do exploits, and return to his own land.

Daniel 11:28 (KJV)

Context

The book of Daniel contains prophetic visions given to the prophet Daniel. In Daniel 11, the angel Gabriel reveals a detailed prophecy about conflicts between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms, events that significantly affected the Jewish people.

Meaning

The pronoun “he” traditionally refers to the “king of the North,” often identified with Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid ruler who opposed the Ptolemaic kingdom. After a campaign in Egypt around 170 BC, he returned to his own land with great riches. The text does not specify how those riches were acquired, though some suggest he plundered resources during his retreat.

His heart was set against the holy covenant, showing hostility toward God’s people and their faith. Antiochus IV is known for persecuting the Jewish religion, desecrating the Jerusalem Temple, and enforcing Hellenistic practices. The Book of Daniel refers to an “abomination of desolation,” though the biblical text does not describe a pig sacrifice; some traditions claim he defiled the temple by sacrificing a pig.

Application

Daniel 11:28 reminds believers that worldly powers may achieve military and material success while opposing God’s covenant. Yet God sovereignly reveals these events in advance, assuring His people of His control and the ultimate triumph of His purposes. The phrase “do exploits” can be understood as carrying out his purposes or taking action, not necessarily in a positive sense.

Reflection

This passage underscores the importance of faithfulness to God’s covenant in the face of persecution. Even when opposition seems strong, God’s people can trust that He sees the end from the beginning and will vindicate those who remain faithful to Him.