Daniel 11:36

Then the king will do as he pleases and will exalt and magnify himself above every god, and he will speak monstrous things against the God of gods. He will be successful until the time of wrath is completed, for what has been decreed must be accomplished.

Study Bible

Then the king will do as he pleases
This phrase suggests a ruler with unchecked power and authority, acting according to his own desires without regard for divine or moral law. The Hebrew root for "do as he pleases" (עָשָׂה, `asah`) implies action and accomplishment, often used in contexts where God's sovereign will is executed. Historically, this could refer to Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Hellenistic king known for his tyrannical rule and persecution of the Jews. In a broader prophetic sense, it foreshadows the Antichrist, who will similarly act with self-serving autonomy.

exalting and magnifying himself above every god
The king's self-exaltation is a direct challenge to divine authority, reminiscent of Lucifer's fall in Isaiah 14:13-14. The Hebrew words for "exalting" (רוּם, `rum`) and "magnifying" (גָּדַל, `gadal`) convey a sense of pride and self-aggrandizement. This behavior is historically consistent with Antiochus IV, who demanded worship as a deity, and prophetically aligns with the Antichrist's future blasphemous claims.

and he will speak outrageous things against the God of gods
The phrase "outrageous things" (נִפְלָאוֹת, `nifla'ot`) indicates blasphemous and astonishingly arrogant statements. The "God of gods" is a title affirming the supremacy of Yahweh over all spiritual entities. This king's blasphemy is a hallmark of both Antiochus IV's desecration of the Jewish temple and the anticipated blasphemies of the Antichrist, as described in 2 Thessalonians 2:4.

He will prosper until the time of wrath is completed
The temporary success of this king is a recurring biblical theme where evil is allowed to flourish for a season. The "time of wrath" (עֵת זַעַם, `et za'am`) refers to a divinely appointed period of judgment. This aligns with the prophetic timeline in Revelation, where the Antichrist's reign is limited by God's sovereign plan.

for what has been decreed must be accomplished
This phrase underscores the certainty of God's prophetic word. The Hebrew root for "decreed" (חָרַץ, `charats`) implies a decision that is firmly determined. The fulfillment of prophecy is inevitable, reflecting God's ultimate control over history. This assurance provides hope and encouragement to believers, affirming that despite present tribulations, God's purposes will prevail.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The King
This figure is often interpreted as a future ruler or antichrist figure who will act with arrogance and self-exaltation, opposing God and His people.

2. God of gods
This title refers to the one true God, Yahweh, who is supreme over all other so-called gods and idols.

3. Time of Wrath
This period is understood as a divinely appointed time of judgment, often associated with the end times or the Great Tribulation.

4. Decreed Events
These are the prophetic events that God has determined will occur, emphasizing His sovereignty over history.

Teaching Points

Understanding Prophecy
Recognize the importance of prophecy in the Bible as a means to understand God's plan and His sovereignty over history.

The Danger of Pride
The king's self-exaltation serves as a warning against pride and arrogance, which can lead to opposition against God.

God's Sovereignty
Trust in God's ultimate control and the fulfillment of His decrees, even when facing opposition or persecution.

Endurance in Faith
Be prepared to stand firm in faith during times of trial, knowing that God's purposes will ultimately prevail.

Discernment in Leadership
Evaluate leaders and authorities by their actions and words, ensuring they align with God's truth and righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the king in Daniel 11:36 challenge us to examine our own attitudes towards authority and power?

2. In what ways can we guard against the pride and self-exaltation that the king exhibits in this passage?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty in prophetic events provide comfort and assurance in our daily lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the king in Daniel 11:36 and other biblical figures who opposed God, and what lessons can we learn from their outcomes?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Daniel 11:36 to discern and respond to modern-day leaders or movements that may oppose God's truth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4
This passage describes the "man of lawlessness" who exalts himself above all that is called God, paralleling the king in Daniel 11:36.

Revelation 13:5-6
The beast in Revelation speaks blasphemies against God, similar to the king's actions in Daniel 11:36.

Isaiah 14:13-14
The pride and self-exaltation of Lucifer mirror the king's behavior in Daniel 11:36.