Daniel 11:31

His forces will rise up and desecrate the temple fortress. They will abolish the daily sacrifice and set up the abomination of desolation.

Study Bible

His forces will rise up
The phrase "His forces" refers to the military power or armed forces under the command of a ruler or king. In the historical context of Daniel, this is often associated with the Seleucid king Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who is known for his aggressive campaigns against the Jewish people. The Hebrew root for "forces" (זרע, zera) can also imply a seed or offspring, suggesting a powerful and influential group. This rising up indicates a deliberate and forceful action, symbolizing the oppressive nature of the ruler's intent to dominate and control.

and desecrate the temple fortress
The "temple fortress" refers to the holy sanctuary in Jerusalem, which was both a place of worship and a stronghold of Jewish faith and identity. The act of desecration implies a profound violation of what is sacred. Historically, Antiochus IV desecrated the Second Temple by erecting an altar to Zeus and sacrificing unclean animals, which was an abomination to the Jewish people. The Hebrew word for "desecrate" (חלל, chalal) means to profane or defile, highlighting the sacrilegious nature of the act. This serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual warfare against God's people and the importance of maintaining holiness.

They will abolish the daily sacrifice
The "daily sacrifice" was a central aspect of Jewish worship, involving regular offerings made to God as prescribed in the Torah. The abolition of these sacrifices represents a direct attack on the religious practices and covenant relationship between God and His people. The Hebrew term for "abolish" (שבת, shabat) means to cease or put an end to, indicating a forceful interruption of worship. This historical event foreshadows future attempts to suppress true worship and serves as a call for believers to remain steadfast in their devotion to God.

and set up the abomination of desolation
The "abomination of desolation" is a phrase that has sparked much theological discussion and is often seen as a prophetic symbol of ultimate desecration and idolatry. The Hebrew word for "abomination" (שקוץ, shiquts) refers to something detestable or loathsome, often associated with idolatrous practices. The "desolation" (שׁמם, shamem) implies utter devastation or ruin. Historically, this was fulfilled when Antiochus IV set up a pagan altar in the Jewish temple. In a broader prophetic sense, it points to future events of great tribulation and the rise of antichrist figures. This serves as a warning to remain vigilant and faithful, trusting in God's ultimate victory over evil.

Persons / Places / Events

1. His Forces
Refers to the military or political power under the control of a ruler, often interpreted as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king known for his persecution of the Jews and desecration of the temple.

2. Temple Fortress
The holy place in Jerusalem, the center of Jewish worship, which was defiled by foreign powers.

3. Daily Sacrifice
The regular offerings made in the temple, which were a vital part of Jewish religious practice and symbolized continual worship and devotion to God.

4. Abomination of Desolation
A term used to describe a sacrilegious act or object placed in the temple, leading to its desecration. Historically linked to the altar to Zeus set up by Antiochus IV.

5. Antiochus IV Epiphanes
A historical figure whose actions against the Jewish people and their temple are seen as a fulfillment of this prophecy, serving as a type for future events.

Teaching Points

Understanding Prophecy
Recognize the dual fulfillment of prophecy, where historical events foreshadow future occurrences. This helps us discern God's plan through history and into the future.

Faithfulness in Persecution
The removal of the daily sacrifice symbolizes an attack on worship. Believers are called to remain faithful even when external forces challenge their devotion.

Guarding Against Idolatry
The abomination of desolation serves as a warning against allowing anything to take the place of God in our lives, whether it be cultural pressures or personal idols.

Hope in God's Sovereignty
Despite the desecration and persecution, God's ultimate plan prevails. This encourages believers to trust in His sovereignty and ultimate victory.

Preparation for End Times
Understanding these prophecies equips believers to be vigilant and prepared for future challenges to their faith, as foretold in Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical context of Antiochus IV Epiphanes help us understand the prophecy in Daniel 11:31?

2. In what ways can the concept of the "abomination of desolation" be relevant to modern-day believers?

3. How do Jesus' words in Matthew 24:15 expand our understanding of Daniel 11:31?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our worship remains pure and undefiled in the face of cultural pressures?

5. How can the assurance of God's sovereignty in prophecy provide comfort and hope in times of personal or communal crisis?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 24:15
Jesus refers to the "abomination of desolation" spoken of by Daniel, indicating a future fulfillment beyond Antiochus IV, often associated with end-times prophecy.

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4
Paul speaks of the "man of lawlessness" who exalts himself in the temple, drawing a parallel to the abomination of desolation and pointing to future events.

Revelation 13:14-15
The imagery of idolatry and desecration in the end times, where the beast sets up an image to be worshiped, echoes the abomination of desolation.