Daniel 11:38
But in his estate shall he honour the God of forces: and a god whom his fathers knew not shall he honour with gold, and silver, and with precious stones, and pleasant things.
Daniel 11:38 (KJV)
Context
This verse stands within a detailed prophecy given to Daniel by an angel, describing a future ruler often identified as the king of the North. The preceding line says he would not regard the God of his fathers, the desire of women, or any god, magnifying himself above all. The following line continues the description of his actions with a strange god. Together, these lines place Daniel 11:38 within its immediate canonical and literary sequence.
Meaning
The verse first states that in his estate he shall honour the God of forces, then adds that he shall honour a god whom his fathers knew not with gold, silver, precious stones, and pleasant things. The phrase “God of forces” is understood by many translations as “god of fortresses” or “god of strongholds,” indicating a deity associated with military strength and protection. The ruler’s lavish offerings show a devotion expressed through material wealth, while the note that this god was unknown to his fathers marks a deliberate departure from ancestral religion.
Biblical connections
Historically, this passage has been linked to Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who desecrated the temple and promoted Greek religious practices. Theologically, it illustrates the danger of exalting power and material wealth above the true God, serving as a warning against idolatry. It also points to the ultimate fulfillment in an end-times figure who opposes God, as described in other prophetic passages.
Application
Readers should listen first for the claim the verse actually makes, then consider the response its setting calls for—such as repentance, faith, endurance, hope, or worship—without claiming more than the text establishes. This verse challenges us to examine what we truly honor and whether we are tempted to trust in military might, wealth, or other “fortresses” rather than in God alone. It calls for wholehearted devotion to God, who alone is worthy of honor and glory.
