Daniel 11:38

And in their place, he will honor a god of fortresses--a god his fathers did not know--with gold, silver, precious stones, and riches.

Study Bible

And in their place
This phrase indicates a substitution or replacement. The context here is the shifting of allegiance from traditional deities to a new form of worship. Historically, this reflects the tendency of rulers to adopt new gods or ideologies that align with their political or military ambitions. The Hebrew word used here can imply a deliberate and strategic replacement, suggesting a calculated move to gain power or control.

he will honor
The act of honoring implies reverence, respect, or worship. In the Hebrew context, this word often denotes the act of giving weight or significance to something. This suggests that the figure in question is not merely acknowledging this god but is elevating it to a position of great importance. This can be seen as a reflection of the human tendency to prioritize power and security over spiritual truth.

a god of fortresses
This phrase is unique and intriguing, as it suggests a deity associated with military strength and protection. The Hebrew term for "fortresses" can also mean strongholds or places of defense. This god is not one of traditional spiritual or moral values but one that represents might and security. Historically, this could be linked to the deification of military power or the state itself, a common practice in ancient empires.

a god his fathers did not know
This highlights the novelty of this deity, indicating a break from tradition. The Hebrew word for "know" often implies intimate understanding or relationship. This suggests that this god is foreign, not part of the ancestral heritage or religious practices. It reflects the cultural and religious shifts that occur when new ideologies or powers emerge, often leading to a departure from established beliefs.

with gold, silver, precious stones, and riches
The use of these materials signifies wealth, opulence, and the materialistic nature of this worship. In the ancient world, offerings of gold, silver, and precious stones were common in the worship of deities, symbolizing devotion and sacrifice. This reflects the human inclination to equate material wealth with divine favor or power. The emphasis on riches underscores the transactional nature of this worship, where material offerings are used to gain favor or protection from this god of fortresses.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The King
This refers to a future ruler who will act contrary to the traditions of his ancestors, honoring a new deity.

2. God of Fortresses
A deity symbolizing military power and strength, which the king will worship with wealth and treasures.

3. Ancestors
The forefathers of the king, who did not know or worship this god of fortresses.

4. Gold, Silver, Precious Stones, and Riches
These represent the material wealth used to honor the god of fortresses, indicating a focus on materialism and power.

5. The Time of the End
The broader context of Daniel 11 is a prophecy concerning the end times, involving conflicts and the rise of powerful leaders.

Teaching Points

Idolatry of Power and Wealth
The passage warns against the idolatry of power and wealth, reminding believers to prioritize God above material possessions.

Discernment in Leadership
Christians are encouraged to discern the values and priorities of leaders, ensuring they align with biblical principles.

Faithfulness to God
Despite cultural or societal pressures, believers are called to remain faithful to the God of their fathers, rejecting false gods.

End Times Awareness
Understanding the prophetic context of Daniel 11 helps Christians remain vigilant and prepared for the challenges of the end times.

Materialism's Danger
The king's actions serve as a caution against the dangers of materialism and the pursuit of wealth at the expense of spiritual integrity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the king's worship of the god of fortresses reflect the broader theme of idolatry in the Bible?

2. In what ways can modern Christians be tempted to honor "gods" of power and wealth, and how can they resist these temptations?

3. How does the prophecy in Daniel 11:38 relate to the warnings about false leaders in the New Testament?

4. What practical steps can believers take to ensure their priorities align with God's commandments rather than societal values?

5. How can understanding the prophetic context of Daniel 11 help Christians live faithfully in anticipation of Christ's return?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 13
This chapter describes the beast and the worship of power and authority, similar to the worship of the god of fortresses.

2 Thessalonians 2
Discusses the man of lawlessness who exalts himself above all gods, paralleling the king's actions in Daniel 11.

Exodus 20:3
The commandment against having other gods highlights the king's violation of God's law by honoring a foreign deity.

Matthew 6:24
Jesus' teaching on serving two masters connects to the king's choice to serve wealth and power over God.

1 Timothy 6:10
The warning about the love of money as the root of all kinds of evil relates to the king's use of wealth to honor the god of fortresses.