Daniel 11:2

Now then, I will tell you the truth: Three more kings will arise in Persia, and then a fourth, who will be far richer than all the others. By the power of his wealth, he will stir up everyone against the kingdom of Greece.

Study Bible

And now I will tell you the truth
This phrase introduces a revelation of future events, emphasizing the certainty and divine origin of the message. The Hebrew word for "truth" is "emet," which conveys reliability and faithfulness. In the context of Daniel, this truth is not just factual but divinely ordained, underscoring God's sovereignty over history. The phrase sets the stage for a prophetic unveiling, inviting the reader to trust in God's ultimate plan.

Three more kings will arise in Persia
The mention of "three more kings" refers to the historical succession of Persian rulers following Cyrus the Great. These kings are Cambyses, Bardiya (or Smerdis), and Darius I. The historical accuracy of this prophecy is significant, as it demonstrates the Bible's alignment with known historical events. The Persian Empire was a dominant force, and its rulers played crucial roles in the unfolding of biblical history, particularly in relation to the Jewish people.

and then a fourth
The "fourth" king is identified as Xerxes I, known for his immense wealth and power. Xerxes' reign is well-documented in historical records, including his failed invasion of Greece. His prominence in the prophecy highlights the impact of his rule on the ancient world and sets the stage for the subsequent rise of Greece as a world power.

who will be far richer than all the others
Xerxes' wealth is legendary, and his opulence is recorded in various historical sources. The Hebrew word for "richer" is "ashir," indicating not just material wealth but also influence and power. This wealth enabled Xerxes to undertake massive military campaigns and construction projects, reflecting the grandeur and might of the Persian Empire at its height.

And when he has gained power by his wealth
The phrase underscores the connection between wealth and political power in ancient empires. Xerxes' ability to mobilize resources for war and governance illustrates the biblical theme of the transient nature of earthly power. Despite his wealth, Xerxes' ambitions ultimately led to overreach and decline, serving as a reminder of the limitations of human authority compared to divine sovereignty.

he will stir up everyone against the kingdom of Greece
This prophecy foreshadows the conflict between Persia and Greece, culminating in the famous battles of Thermopylae and Salamis. The phrase "stir up" suggests incitement and provocation, capturing the tension and animosity between these two great civilizations. The eventual Greek victory under leaders like Alexander the Great marks a pivotal shift in world history, aligning with the biblical narrative of empires rising and falling under God's providential hand.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Persia
An ancient empire known for its wealth and power, which played a significant role in biblical history. The prophecy in Daniel 11:2 refers to the Persian kings who would arise after Cyrus the Great.

2. Three Kings of Persia
These are the successors of Cyrus the Great. Historically, these are often identified as Cambyses, Smerdis (Bardiya), and Darius I.

3. The Fourth King
This king is identified as Xerxes I, known for his immense wealth and his campaign against Greece, which aligns with the prophecy of stirring up everyone against Greece.

4. Greece
A significant power that would eventually rise to prominence under leaders like Alexander the Great. The conflict between Persia and Greece is a pivotal historical event.

5. The Angelic Messenger
The speaker in this passage is an angelic being delivering a message to Daniel, providing insight into future events.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The prophecy in Daniel 11:2 demonstrates God's control over the rise and fall of empires, reminding us that history unfolds according to His divine plan.

The Temporal Nature of Earthly Power
The wealth and power of the Persian kings, particularly the fourth king, serve as a reminder that earthly riches and power are temporary and ultimately subject to God's will.

The Importance of Historical Context in Understanding Prophecy
Understanding the historical context of the Persian and Greek empires helps us see the accuracy and reliability of biblical prophecy, strengthening our faith in Scripture.

The Role of Wealth in Influencing Nations
The fourth king's use of wealth to stir up conflict against Greece highlights the influence of material resources in geopolitical affairs, prompting us to consider how we use our own resources.

Faithfulness in the Midst of Political Change
Daniel's example of faithfulness amidst changing political landscapes encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith regardless of external circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy in Daniel 11:2 demonstrate God's sovereignty over historical events, and how can this understanding impact our view of current world events?

2. In what ways does the wealth of the fourth Persian king influence his actions, and what lessons can we learn about the use of wealth in our own lives?

3. How does understanding the historical context of the Persian and Greek empires enhance our interpretation of Daniel 11:2?

4. What parallels can we draw between the political changes in Daniel's time and the changes we experience today, and how can we remain faithful amidst such changes?

5. How do the prophecies in Daniel 11:2 and related scriptures strengthen our confidence in the reliability of the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 4:6
This verse mentions Ahasuerus, another name for Xerxes, providing a historical context for the Persian kings mentioned in Daniel 11:2.

Esther 1:1-4
Describes the wealth and power of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus), aligning with the description of the fourth king in Daniel 11:2.

Isaiah 45:1-3
Speaks of Cyrus, the predecessor of the kings mentioned in Daniel 11:2, highlighting God's sovereignty over the rise and fall of empires.