Daniel 11:39

Thus shall he do in the most strong holds with a strange god, whom he shall acknowledge and increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall divide the land for gain.

Daniel 11:39 (KJV)

Context

Daniel 11 is a prophetic chapter that foretells events related to the empires and kingdoms that would rise and fall in the ancient Near East. It primarily focuses on the conflicts between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms, which were successors of Alexander the Great’s empire.

In verse 39, the pronoun “he” refers to a future ruler who would arise in the context of these historical conflicts. Interpretations of this verse vary among biblical scholars.

Meaning

Many scholars interpret this verse as a reference to Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king who ruled from 175 to 164 BC. Antiochus attempted to impose Hellenistic culture on the Jews and desecrated the temple in Jerusalem by erecting an altar to Zeus. He acknowledged and honored a “strange god” by promoting the worship of Greek gods and goddesses.

The phrase “most strong holds” indicates that this ruler would gain control of fortified cities and military strongholds, not through his own strength alone, but with the help of a deity his people had not previously honored. He would “increase with glory” this foreign god, meaning he would promote its worship and elevate its status, using religion as a tool for political and military advantage.

Those who acknowledged this ruler would be rewarded with authority over many, and he would “divide the land for gain.” This describes a system of rewarding loyalty with political power and land, but the distribution was transactional and corrupt, aimed at consolidating his control.

Biblical connections

This verse connects to the broader theme in Daniel 11 of a king who exalts himself above every god and speaks monstrous things against the God of gods (Daniel 11:36). It serves as a warning about the nature of worldly power, which often uses religion and rewards to consolidate control, in contrast to the kingdom of God.

Application

For believers, this passage is a reminder to discern how power can manipulate religion for selfish ends. It calls Christians to remain faithful to God alone, refusing to compromise worship for political or material gain. It also encourages trust in God’s sovereignty, knowing that He ultimately rules over all earthly kingdoms.

Reflection

Consider how worldly systems may offer power, land, or favor in exchange for loyalty. Daniel 11:39 challenges readers to examine their own hearts, ensuring that their allegiance is to God and His kingdom, not to the transient rewards of this world.