Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, even I, stood to confirm and to strengthen him.
And now will I shew thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than they all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of Grecia.
And a mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion, and do according to his will.
And when he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken, and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven; and not to his posterity, nor according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others beside those.
And the king of the south shall be strong, and one of his princes; and he shall be strong above him, and have dominion; his dominion shall be a great dominion.
And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king’s daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her, and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in these times.
But out of a branch of her roots shall one stand up in his estate, which shall come with an army, and shall enter into the fortress of the king of the north, and shall deal against them, and shall prevail:
And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods, with their princes, and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue more years than the king of the north.
So the king of the south shall come into his kingdom, and shall return into his own land.
But his sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of great forces: and one shall certainly come, and overflow, and pass through: then shall he return, and be stirred up, even to his fortress.
And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come forth and fight with him, even with the king of the north: and he shall set forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his hand.
And when he hath taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted up; and he shall cast down many ten thousands: but he shall not be strengthened by it.
For the king of the north shall return, and shall set forth a multitude greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain years with a great army and with much riches.
And in those times there shall many stand up against the king of the south: also the robbers of thy people shall exalt themselves to establish the vision; but they shall fall.
So the king of the north shall come, and cast up a mount, and take the most fenced cities: and the arms of the south shall not withstand, neither his chosen people, neither shall there be any strength to withstand.
But he that cometh against him shall do according to his own will, and none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious land, which by his hand shall be consumed.
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.
After this shall he turn his face unto the isles, and shall take many: but a prince for his own behalf shall cause the reproach offered by him to cease; without his own reproach he shall cause it to turn upon him.
Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land: but he shall stumble and fall, and not be found.
Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes in the glory of the kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in battle.
And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries.
And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him, and shall be broken; yea, also the prince of the covenant.
And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully: for he shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people.
He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers’ fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea, and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time.
And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south with a great army; and the king of the south shall be stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand: for they shall forecast devices against him.
Yea, they that feed of the portion of his meat shall destroy him, and his army shall overflow: and many shall fall down slain.
And both these kings’ hearts shall be to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end shall be at the time appointed.
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.
At the time appointed he shall return, and come toward the south; but it shall not be as the former, or as the latter.
For the ships of Chittim shall come against him: therefore he shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant.
And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.
And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.
And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days.
Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries.
And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.
And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.
Neither shall he regard the God of his fathers, nor the desire of women, nor regard any god: for he shall magnify himself above all.
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.
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.
And at the time of the end shall the king of the south push at him: and the king of the north shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter into the countries, and shall overflow and pass over.
He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many countries shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon.
He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries: and the land of Egypt shall not escape.
But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt: and the Libyans and the Ethiopians shall be at his steps.
But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall trouble him: therefore he shall go forth with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make away many.
And he shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and none shall help him.
Daniel 11 is a remarkable chapter, packed with detailed prophecies delivered to Daniel by an angelic messenger, likely Gabriel, beginning in Daniel 10:18-11:1. This chapter serves as a bridge, connecting historical events leading up to the Roman Empire with prophecies about the end times, ultimately setting the stage for Daniel 12 and the final revelations given to Daniel. Understanding Daniel 11 provides vital context for interpreting other prophetic passages, such as Ezekiel 38 and Joel 2, and illuminates Jesus' own teachings about the end times in Matthew 24:15. This makes Daniel 11 a key chapter for those studying Bible prophecy.
A Prophecy Spanning Centuries
The prophecy in Daniel 11 is extensive, covering events from Daniel's time (around 536 BC, Daniel 10:1) to the distant future. The initial portion of the chapter focuses on the political and spiritual landscape surrounding Judea, primarily concerning the area of modern-day Israel. These prophecies primarily deal with events occurring between the fourth and second centuries BC, and they transition into prophecies about the end times that are still yet to be fulfilled.
The Rise and Fall of Empires (Daniel 11:1-4)
The prophecy begins by reinforcing earlier predictions about Alexander the Great (Daniel 8:5-8). He is depicted as a powerful warrior king (Daniel 11:3) whose vast empire was subsequently divided into four parts after his death (Daniel 11:4). While Daniel 11:2 mentions kings in Persia, the focus quickly shifts to the impact of Alexander's fractured kingdom on Israel.
The King of the South vs. The King of the North (Daniel 11:5-20)
The prophecy then hones in on two powerful kingdoms that emerged from Alexander's divided empire: the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt (the "king of the South") and the Seleucid Empire in Syria (the "king of the North"). These kingdoms, constantly vying for power, significantly impacted Israel, often becoming a battleground for their conflicts. The angel provides a detailed account of their ongoing struggles (Daniel 11:5-20).
Initially, Ptolemy I Soter ruled Egypt, while Seleucus I Nicator established the Seleucid Empire, which eventually surpassed Ptolemy's in size and influence. These two empires became immediate rivals. At one point, Ptolemy II arranged for his daughter's marriage to Antiochus II, the Seleucid ruler, in an attempt to foster peace. However, this union ended in tragedy with her death, exacerbating the animosity between the two cultures (Daniel 11:5-6).
The prophecy continues, detailing subsequent events known to us through historical records. Ptolemy III, seeking revenge, successfully raided and plundered the Seleucid territories, reclaiming artifacts and amassing great wealth. The Seleucid response, though feeble, managed to recapture much of Judea, primarily because the Egyptian army was content with their loot and retreated. This counterattack, however, failed to penetrate into Egypt (Daniel 11:7-9).
Later, Antiochus III, also known as Antiochus the Great, rose to power in the Seleucid Empire, achieving significant military victories. His armies "flowed" over conquered territories but paused to regroup in the southern region of the modern-day Gaza Strip. The Egyptian king, anticipating an invasion, caught the Seleucids off guard. The Battle of Raphia resulted in heavy losses for the Seleucid forces. Nevertheless, Antiochus eventually returned with an even larger army (Daniel 11:10-13).
In his renewed attacks on Egypt, Antiochus forged alliances with Macedonia and some Israelites who hoped their cooperation would lead to independence. In retaking Judea, Antiochus also captured the fortified city of Sidon. Some Egyptian armies were completely destroyed. Attempting to pacify and control Egypt, Antiochus arranged for his daughter to marry the Egyptian king, but this arrangement proved short-lived. Antiochus then attempted a naval conquest, only to be thwarted by the rising Roman Empire. Shortly after, Antiochus III met his end (Daniel 11:14-19).
Antiochus III's successor imposed heavy taxes. He was then replaced by Antiochus IV Epiphanes through illegitimate means, a ruler known for his intrigue and bribery.
Antiochus Epiphanes: A Shadow of the Antichrist (Daniel 11:21-35)
Antiochus IV Epiphanes (previously seen in Daniel 8:9-14) emerges as a significant figure in the prophecy, foreshadowing the Antichrist. He was a despised person who seized power through deceit and not by rightful inheritance (Daniel 11:21). He achieved numerous military victories against Egypt, including a successful ambush near Pelusium, leading to the pillaging of Egypt. However, his ambitions were ultimately thwarted by the growing power of Rome.
When Antiochus IV attempted another invasion of Egypt, he was confronted by Roman ambassadors who, concerned about their trade relationship with Egypt, delivered a humiliating ultimatum. Forced to retreat, Antiochus vented his rage on the Jews in Jerusalem (Daniel 11:29-30).
Antiochus IV sought to eradicate Judaism from Judea. He outlawed essential religious practices such as dietary laws, Sabbath observance, and circumcision. He violently persecuted those who resisted but offered leniency to those willing to renounce their faith and worship pagan gods. In a calculated act of desecration, Antiochus erected a pagan altar in the Temple and sacrificed an unclean pig, defiling the sanctuary and deeply humiliating the Jewish people. This act is referred to as "the abomination that causes desolation" (Daniel 11:31; see also Daniel 9:27), a phrase Jesus used to connect Daniel's prophecies about Antiochus Epiphanes to similar events in the end times (Matthew 24:15). This sparked the Maccabean Revolt, a period of intense conflict that eventually led to the restoration of the Temple. However, thousands of faithful Jews who resisted him were martyred (Daniel 11:33). But the people who know their God will be strong and take action (Daniel 11:32). Life’s circumstances will not keep them down.
Transition to the End Times (Daniel 11:36-45)
While Daniel 11:21-35 describes Antiochus Epiphanes, verse 36 marks a shift in focus to the end times and the rise of the Antichrist. Here, Antiochus's role as a model or type of the "little horn" of Daniel 7:8 ends, and the Antichrist himself steps onto the scene. The Antichrist's true character as a monstrous beast is revealed: He will exalt and magnify himself above every god, and he will say outrageous things against the God of gods, desiring to be worshiped personally (Daniel 11:36). He will be aided by some foreign power. Scholars differ on the identity of this king, with some identifying him as the second beast of Revelation (Revelation 13:11–17). This ruler will re-distribute territory on earth according to his corrupt schemes (Daniel 11:36–39).
The Antichrist's reign during the tribulation will face opposition. The attack against him by the king of the South and the king of the North (Daniel 11:40) likely refers to a larger coalition of forces than simply Egypt and Syria, as in the days of Antiochus. The fact that this conflict results in the Antichrist meeting his end (Daniel 11:45), when Jesus Christ returns and defeats him, suggests that this battle occurs near the end of the tribulation.
The northern armies will move through Israel and into Egypt. Then, at some point, a threat from the north and east will make them turn back. Between the Mediterranean Sea and a "holy mountain," probably Jerusalem, they will meet utter defeat (Daniel 11:40–45).
A Time of Trouble (Daniel 12:1)
The concluding verses of Daniel foreshadow a "time of trouble" unlike any the world has ever seen (Daniel 12:1), leading into a period of final judgment and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom.
Daniel 11 is a complex and challenging chapter, but it provides invaluable insight into the unfolding of God's plan throughout history and into the future. By carefully studying this chapter, we can gain a deeper understanding of the forces at work in the world and the ultimate victory of God's kingdom.
Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, even I, stood to confirm and to strengthen him.
And now will I shew thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than they all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of Grecia.
And a mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion, and do according to his will.
And when he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken, and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven; and not to his posterity, nor according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others beside those.
And the king of the south shall be strong, and one of his princes; and he shall be strong above him, and have dominion; his dominion shall be a great dominion.
And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king’s daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her, and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in these times.
But out of a branch of her roots shall one stand up in his estate, which shall come with an army, and shall enter into the fortress of the king of the north, and shall deal against them, and shall prevail:
And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods, with their princes, and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue more years than the king of the north.
So the king of the south shall come into his kingdom, and shall return into his own land.
But his sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of great forces: and one shall certainly come, and overflow, and pass through: then shall he return, and be stirred up, even to his fortress.
And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come forth and fight with him, even with the king of the north: and he shall set forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his hand.
And when he hath taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted up; and he shall cast down many ten thousands: but he shall not be strengthened by it.
For the king of the north shall return, and shall set forth a multitude greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain years with a great army and with much riches.
And in those times there shall many stand up against the king of the south: also the robbers of thy people shall exalt themselves to establish the vision; but they shall fall.
So the king of the north shall come, and cast up a mount, and take the most fenced cities: and the arms of the south shall not withstand, neither his chosen people, neither shall there be any strength to withstand.
But he that cometh against him shall do according to his own will, and none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious land, which by his hand shall be consumed.
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.
After this shall he turn his face unto the isles, and shall take many: but a prince for his own behalf shall cause the reproach offered by him to cease; without his own reproach he shall cause it to turn upon him.
Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land: but he shall stumble and fall, and not be found.
Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes in the glory of the kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in battle.
And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries.
And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him, and shall be broken; yea, also the prince of the covenant.
And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully: for he shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people.
He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers’ fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea, and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time.
And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south with a great army; and the king of the south shall be stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand: for they shall forecast devices against him.
Yea, they that feed of the portion of his meat shall destroy him, and his army shall overflow: and many shall fall down slain.
And both these kings’ hearts shall be to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end shall be at the time appointed.
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.
At the time appointed he shall return, and come toward the south; but it shall not be as the former, or as the latter.
For the ships of Chittim shall come against him: therefore he shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant.
And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.
And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.
And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days.
Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries.
And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.
And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.
Neither shall he regard the God of his fathers, nor the desire of women, nor regard any god: for he shall magnify himself above all.
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.
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.
And at the time of the end shall the king of the south push at him: and the king of the north shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter into the countries, and shall overflow and pass over.
He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many countries shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon.
He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries: and the land of Egypt shall not escape.
But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt: and the Libyans and the Ethiopians shall be at his steps.
But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall trouble him: therefore he shall go forth with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make away many.
And he shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and none shall help him.
Daniel 11 is a remarkable chapter, packed with detailed prophecies delivered to Daniel by an angelic messenger, likely Gabriel, beginning in Daniel 10:18-11:1. This chapter serves as a bridge, connecting historical events leading up to the Roman Empire with prophecies about the end times, ultimately setting the stage for Daniel 12 and the final revelations given to Daniel. Understanding Daniel 11 provides vital context for interpreting other prophetic passages, such as Ezekiel 38 and Joel 2, and illuminates Jesus' own teachings about the end times in Matthew 24:15. This makes Daniel 11 a key chapter for those studying Bible prophecy.
A Prophecy Spanning Centuries
The prophecy in Daniel 11 is extensive, covering events from Daniel's time (around 536 BC, Daniel 10:1) to the distant future. The initial portion of the chapter focuses on the political and spiritual landscape surrounding Judea, primarily concerning the area of modern-day Israel. These prophecies primarily deal with events occurring between the fourth and second centuries BC, and they transition into prophecies about the end times that are still yet to be fulfilled.
The Rise and Fall of Empires (Daniel 11:1-4)
The prophecy begins by reinforcing earlier predictions about Alexander the Great (Daniel 8:5-8). He is depicted as a powerful warrior king (Daniel 11:3) whose vast empire was subsequently divided into four parts after his death (Daniel 11:4). While Daniel 11:2 mentions kings in Persia, the focus quickly shifts to the impact of Alexander's fractured kingdom on Israel.
The King of the South vs. The King of the North (Daniel 11:5-20)
The prophecy then hones in on two powerful kingdoms that emerged from Alexander's divided empire: the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt (the "king of the South") and the Seleucid Empire in Syria (the "king of the North"). These kingdoms, constantly vying for power, significantly impacted Israel, often becoming a battleground for their conflicts. The angel provides a detailed account of their ongoing struggles (Daniel 11:5-20).
Initially, Ptolemy I Soter ruled Egypt, while Seleucus I Nicator established the Seleucid Empire, which eventually surpassed Ptolemy's in size and influence. These two empires became immediate rivals. At one point, Ptolemy II arranged for his daughter's marriage to Antiochus II, the Seleucid ruler, in an attempt to foster peace. However, this union ended in tragedy with her death, exacerbating the animosity between the two cultures (Daniel 11:5-6).
The prophecy continues, detailing subsequent events known to us through historical records. Ptolemy III, seeking revenge, successfully raided and plundered the Seleucid territories, reclaiming artifacts and amassing great wealth. The Seleucid response, though feeble, managed to recapture much of Judea, primarily because the Egyptian army was content with their loot and retreated. This counterattack, however, failed to penetrate into Egypt (Daniel 11:7-9).
Later, Antiochus III, also known as Antiochus the Great, rose to power in the Seleucid Empire, achieving significant military victories. His armies "flowed" over conquered territories but paused to regroup in the southern region of the modern-day Gaza Strip. The Egyptian king, anticipating an invasion, caught the Seleucids off guard. The Battle of Raphia resulted in heavy losses for the Seleucid forces. Nevertheless, Antiochus eventually returned with an even larger army (Daniel 11:10-13).
In his renewed attacks on Egypt, Antiochus forged alliances with Macedonia and some Israelites who hoped their cooperation would lead to independence. In retaking Judea, Antiochus also captured the fortified city of Sidon. Some Egyptian armies were completely destroyed. Attempting to pacify and control Egypt, Antiochus arranged for his daughter to marry the Egyptian king, but this arrangement proved short-lived. Antiochus then attempted a naval conquest, only to be thwarted by the rising Roman Empire. Shortly after, Antiochus III met his end (Daniel 11:14-19).
Antiochus III's successor imposed heavy taxes. He was then replaced by Antiochus IV Epiphanes through illegitimate means, a ruler known for his intrigue and bribery.
Antiochus Epiphanes: A Shadow of the Antichrist (Daniel 11:21-35)
Antiochus IV Epiphanes (previously seen in Daniel 8:9-14) emerges as a significant figure in the prophecy, foreshadowing the Antichrist. He was a despised person who seized power through deceit and not by rightful inheritance (Daniel 11:21). He achieved numerous military victories against Egypt, including a successful ambush near Pelusium, leading to the pillaging of Egypt. However, his ambitions were ultimately thwarted by the growing power of Rome.
When Antiochus IV attempted another invasion of Egypt, he was confronted by Roman ambassadors who, concerned about their trade relationship with Egypt, delivered a humiliating ultimatum. Forced to retreat, Antiochus vented his rage on the Jews in Jerusalem (Daniel 11:29-30).
Antiochus IV sought to eradicate Judaism from Judea. He outlawed essential religious practices such as dietary laws, Sabbath observance, and circumcision. He violently persecuted those who resisted but offered leniency to those willing to renounce their faith and worship pagan gods. In a calculated act of desecration, Antiochus erected a pagan altar in the Temple and sacrificed an unclean pig, defiling the sanctuary and deeply humiliating the Jewish people. This act is referred to as "the abomination that causes desolation" (Daniel 11:31; see also Daniel 9:27), a phrase Jesus used to connect Daniel's prophecies about Antiochus Epiphanes to similar events in the end times (Matthew 24:15). This sparked the Maccabean Revolt, a period of intense conflict that eventually led to the restoration of the Temple. However, thousands of faithful Jews who resisted him were martyred (Daniel 11:33). But the people who know their God will be strong and take action (Daniel 11:32). Life’s circumstances will not keep them down.
Transition to the End Times (Daniel 11:36-45)
While Daniel 11:21-35 describes Antiochus Epiphanes, verse 36 marks a shift in focus to the end times and the rise of the Antichrist. Here, Antiochus's role as a model or type of the "little horn" of Daniel 7:8 ends, and the Antichrist himself steps onto the scene. The Antichrist's true character as a monstrous beast is revealed: He will exalt and magnify himself above every god, and he will say outrageous things against the God of gods, desiring to be worshiped personally (Daniel 11:36). He will be aided by some foreign power. Scholars differ on the identity of this king, with some identifying him as the second beast of Revelation (Revelation 13:11–17). This ruler will re-distribute territory on earth according to his corrupt schemes (Daniel 11:36–39).
The Antichrist's reign during the tribulation will face opposition. The attack against him by the king of the South and the king of the North (Daniel 11:40) likely refers to a larger coalition of forces than simply Egypt and Syria, as in the days of Antiochus. The fact that this conflict results in the Antichrist meeting his end (Daniel 11:45), when Jesus Christ returns and defeats him, suggests that this battle occurs near the end of the tribulation.
The northern armies will move through Israel and into Egypt. Then, at some point, a threat from the north and east will make them turn back. Between the Mediterranean Sea and a "holy mountain," probably Jerusalem, they will meet utter defeat (Daniel 11:40–45).
A Time of Trouble (Daniel 12:1)
The concluding verses of Daniel foreshadow a "time of trouble" unlike any the world has ever seen (Daniel 12:1), leading into a period of final judgment and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom.
Daniel 11 is a complex and challenging chapter, but it provides invaluable insight into the unfolding of God's plan throughout history and into the future. By carefully studying this chapter, we can gain a deeper understanding of the forces at work in the world and the ultimate victory of God's kingdom.