Daniel 11:6

After some years they will form an alliance, and the daughter of the king of the South will go to the king of the North to seal the agreement. But his daughter will not retain her position of power, nor will his strength endure. At that time she will be given up, along with her royal escort and her father and the one who supported her.

Study Bible

After some years
This phrase indicates a passage of time, suggesting a period of political maneuvering and shifting alliances. In the Hebrew text, the word for "years" (שָׁנִים, shanim) often signifies a significant duration, emphasizing the unfolding of God's sovereign plan over time. Historically, this refers to the period after the initial conflicts between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid empires, highlighting the ebb and flow of power as ordained by divine providence.

they will form an alliance
The Hebrew root for "alliance" (חָבַר, chabar) implies a joining or binding together, often used in the context of political or military agreements. This alliance is a strategic marriage between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid dynasties, reflecting the common ancient Near Eastern practice of using marriage to secure peace and political stability. It underscores the human tendency to seek security through earthly means rather than relying on divine guidance.

the daughter of the king of the South
This phrase refers to Berenice, the daughter of Ptolemy II of Egypt (the king of the South). The term "daughter" (בַּת, bat) in Hebrew not only denotes a biological relationship but also signifies a representative of her father's house and political interests. Berenice's role highlights the vulnerability and instrumentalization of women in ancient political strategies, serving as a reminder of the often harsh realities of historical power dynamics.

will go to the king of the North
The "king of the North" refers to Antiochus II of the Seleucid Empire. The Hebrew verb for "go" (בּוֹא, bo) suggests a purposeful journey or mission, indicating Berenice's role as a diplomatic envoy. This movement from South to North symbolizes the shifting centers of power and the transient nature of human alliances, which are ultimately subject to God's eternal kingdom.

to seal the agreement
The phrase "seal the agreement" (לַעֲשׂוֹת מֵישָׁרִים, la'asot mesharim) in Hebrew conveys the idea of making a covenant or treaty. The use of "seal" implies a formal and binding commitment, yet the subsequent narrative reveals the fragility of human promises. This serves as a theological reflection on the reliability of God's covenants compared to human agreements, which often fail due to sin and betrayal.

But she will not retain her power
The Hebrew word for "retain" (עָמַד, amad) means to stand or endure, indicating that Berenice's influence and position are temporary. This highlights the theme of the impermanence of earthly power and the futility of relying on human strength. It serves as a cautionary tale about the fleeting nature of political authority and the ultimate sovereignty of God over human affairs.

and his strength will not endure
The "strength" (כֹּחַ, koach) of the king of the North, Antiochus II, is similarly transient. The Hebrew verb for "endure" (עָמַד, amad) reiterates the idea of standing firm, yet here it underscores the inevitable decline of those who oppose God's will. This reflects the biblical principle that true strength and endurance come from aligning with God's purposes rather than pursuing worldly power.

In those days she will be betrayed
The phrase "in those days" (בַּיָּמִים הָהֵם, bayamim hahem) situates the events within a specific historical context, emphasizing the fulfillment of prophecy. The Hebrew root for "betrayed" (בָּגַד, bagad) conveys treachery and unfaithfulness, illustrating the moral decay and unreliability of human alliances. This betrayal serves as a poignant reminder of the need for faithfulness to God, who alone is trustworthy.

together with her royal escort and her father and the one who supported her
This part of the verse details the comprehensive nature of the betrayal, affecting not only Berenice but also her entourage and supporters. The Hebrew term for "royal escort" (זוֹרֵעַ, zorea) implies those who are sown or planted with her, indicating close associates or allies. The mention of her father and supporters highlights the widespread impact of political treachery, serving as a sobering reflection on the consequences of placing trust in human institutions rather than in God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King of the South
Refers to the ruler of Egypt, historically associated with the Ptolemaic dynasty.

2. King of the North
Refers to the ruler of the Seleucid Empire, which was located in the region of modern-day Syria and surrounding areas.

3. Daughter of the King of the South
Historically, this is believed to be Berenice, daughter of Ptolemy II of Egypt, who was given in marriage to Antiochus II of the Seleucid Empire.

4. Alliance
A political marriage intended to create peace and strengthen ties between the two kingdoms.

5. Betrayal and Downfall
The failure of the alliance and the subsequent betrayal and downfall of Berenice and her supporters.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Human Alliances
Human alliances, especially those based on political expediency, are often fragile and unreliable. True security and peace come from trusting in God rather than in human agreements.

The Sovereignty of God
Despite human plans and alliances, God's purposes will prevail. This passage reminds us of God's ultimate control over the affairs of nations and individuals.

The Consequences of Betrayal
Betrayal leads to downfall and destruction. This serves as a warning to maintain integrity and faithfulness in our relationships and commitments.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
The involvement of Berenice in this historical event shows that women, too, play significant roles in God's unfolding plan, even when the outcomes are tragic.

Trust in God's Wisdom
In a world full of political maneuvering and shifting alliances, believers are called to trust in God's wisdom and guidance rather than in human strategies.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the failed alliance in Daniel 11:6 illustrate the limitations of human wisdom and planning?

2. In what ways can we apply the lesson of God's sovereignty from this passage to our personal lives today?

3. How does the account of Berenice and the political alliance challenge us to consider the role of integrity and faithfulness in our own relationships?

4. What other biblical examples can you think of where human alliances failed, and how did God demonstrate His sovereignty in those situations?

5. How can we ensure that our trust remains in God rather than in human institutions or leaders, especially in times of uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 31:1
This verse warns against relying on political alliances and human strength rather than trusting in God. It parallels the futility of the alliance in Daniel 11:6.

Proverbs 21:30
This verse emphasizes that no wisdom, understanding, or counsel can prevail against the Lord, highlighting the ultimate futility of human schemes.

Psalm 146:3-4
These verses caution against putting trust in princes and human plans, which aligns with the failure of the political alliance in Daniel 11:6.