Daniel 11:14

In those times many will rise up against the king of the South. Violent ones among your own people will exalt themselves in fulfillment of the vision, but they will fail.

Study Bible

In those times
This phrase situates the prophecy within a specific historical context. The "times" refer to the period of conflict between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms, which followed the division of Alexander the Great's empire. Historically, this was a tumultuous era marked by frequent wars and shifting alliances. The Hebrew word for "times" (עִתִּים, 'ittim) often denotes appointed or significant periods, suggesting divine orchestration in the unfolding of these events.

many will rise up
The phrase indicates a collective action or rebellion. The Hebrew root קוּם (qum) means "to rise" or "to stand up," implying a significant movement or uprising. This can be seen as a fulfillment of the ongoing struggle for power and influence in the region, where various factions sought to assert their dominance. It reflects the broader theme of human ambition and the quest for power that is prevalent throughout the Book of Daniel.

against the king of the South
The "king of the South" refers to the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt. Historically, the Ptolemies were one of the major Hellenistic powers following the fragmentation of Alexander's empire. The phrase underscores the geopolitical tensions of the era, as the Ptolemies and Seleucids frequently clashed over territory and influence. The Hebrew preposition עַל ('al) used here conveys opposition or hostility, highlighting the adversarial nature of these interactions.

The violent ones among your people
This phrase points to a specific group within the Jewish community. The term "violent ones" (בְּנֵי פָרִיצִים, benei paritzim) can be translated as "sons of the violent" or "rebellious ones." It suggests individuals who resort to force or aggression to achieve their ends. This reflects a period of internal strife and division within the Jewish community, as some sought to align with external powers for political gain, contrary to the divine vision for Israel.

will exalt themselves
The Hebrew verb רוּם (rum) means "to lift up" or "to exalt." This action implies pride or self-aggrandizement, often associated with rebellion against divine authority. In the context of Daniel, it suggests a misguided attempt to assert control or influence, driven by human ambition rather than submission to God's will. This serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of pride and self-reliance.

to fulfill the vision
The "vision" refers to the prophetic revelations given to Daniel concerning the future of Israel and the surrounding nations. The Hebrew word חָזוֹן (chazon) denotes a divine revelation or insight. The attempt to "fulfill the vision" indicates a misunderstanding or misapplication of God's prophetic word, as these individuals sought to bring about the prophecy through their own means rather than trusting in God's timing and methods.

but they will fail
The phrase underscores the futility of human efforts that are not aligned with God's purposes. The Hebrew verb כָּשַׁל (kashal) means "to stumble" or "to fail," indicating that these attempts will not succeed. This serves as a powerful reminder of the sovereignty of God and the ultimate triumph of His plans, despite human interference. It encourages believers to trust in God's wisdom and timing, rather than relying on their own understanding.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King of the South
This refers to the ruler of Egypt, a key player in the geopolitical struggles described in Daniel 11. The "South" is traditionally associated with Egypt in biblical prophecy.

2. Violent Men Among Your Own People
These are individuals from the Jewish community who, during the time of the prophecy, would attempt to assert themselves politically or militarily, aligning with external forces against the king of the South.

3. Fulfillment of the Vision
This phrase indicates that the actions of these violent men are part of a larger prophetic vision given to Daniel, which encompasses the rise and fall of empires and the struggles of God's people.

4. Failure of the Violent Men
Despite their efforts, these individuals will not succeed in their plans, highlighting the futility of actions that are not aligned with God's ultimate purpose.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
Despite human efforts and political maneuvers, God's plan prevails. Believers should trust in God's sovereignty over world events.

The Futility of Human Schemes
Aligning with God's purpose is crucial. Human plans that oppose God's will are destined to fail.

Discernment in Alliances
The violent men aligned with external forces, leading to failure. Christians should seek discernment in their alliances and partnerships.

Faithfulness Amidst Political Turmoil
Like Daniel, believers are called to remain faithful and steadfast, even when surrounded by political and social upheaval.

The Importance of Prophetic Understanding
Understanding biblical prophecy helps believers navigate current events with wisdom and hope.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the failure of the violent men in Daniel 11:14 illustrate the principle of God's sovereignty over human history?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our plans and actions align with God's will, avoiding the futility seen in Daniel 11:14?

3. How can the example of the violent men in Daniel 11:14 serve as a warning against forming alliances that are not God-honoring?

4. What lessons can we learn from Daniel's faithfulness in the midst of political turmoil, and how can we apply these lessons in today's world?

5. How does understanding biblical prophecy, like that in Daniel 11, equip us to face current and future challenges with faith and hope?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 8:9-10
This passage speaks to the futility of plans that are not aligned with God's will, similar to the failure of the violent men in Daniel 11:14.

Psalm 2:1-4
This psalm reflects on the vain plotting of nations against God's anointed, paralleling the failed attempts of the violent men in Daniel 11:14.

Acts 5:38-39
In the New Testament, Gamaliel advises that if a plan is not of God, it will fail, echoing the outcome for the violent men in Daniel 11:14.