The term "King of Greece" is primarily associated with the prophetic visions found in the Book of Daniel, specifically in Daniel 8 and Daniel 11. These passages are part of the apocalyptic literature that characterizes much of Daniel, offering symbolic visions that have been interpreted to refer to historical events and figures.

Daniel 8: The Vision of the Ram and the Goat

In Daniel 8, the prophet Daniel receives a vision involving a ram and a goat. The ram, with two horns, is identified as the kings of Media and Persia. The goat, which defeats the ram, is identified as the kingdom of Greece. Daniel 8:21 states, "The shaggy goat represents the king of Greece, and the large horn between his eyes is the first king." This "first king" is widely understood to refer to Alexander the Great, who led the Greek Empire to conquer the Persian Empire, fulfilling the prophecy of the goat's victory over the ram.

Daniel 11: The Kings of the South and the North

Daniel 11 provides a detailed prophecy concerning the conflicts between the "king of the South" and the "king of the North," which many scholars interpret as referring to the Ptolemaic and Seleucid empires, respectively. These empires emerged following the division of Alexander the Great's empire after his death. Daniel 11:3-4 states, "Then a mighty king will arise, who will rule with great authority and do as he pleases. After he has arisen, his empire will be broken up and parceled out toward the four winds of heaven. It will not go to his descendants, nor will it have the power he exercised, because his empire will be uprooted and given to others."

This passage is understood to describe the fragmentation of Alexander's empire into four major regions, ruled by his generals, rather than his descendants. The Seleucid and Ptolemaic dynasties, which are central to the subsequent verses in Daniel 11, are seen as part of this division.

Historical Context and Interpretation

From a historical perspective, the "King of Greece" in these passages is closely associated with Alexander the Great, whose conquests had a profound impact on the ancient world, spreading Greek culture and influence across the Near East. The subsequent division of his empire among his generals led to the Hellenistic period, characterized by the spread of Greek culture and the rise of the aforementioned dynasties.

In conservative Christian interpretation, these prophecies are often viewed as evidence of the divine inspiration of Scripture, demonstrating God's sovereignty over history. The precise fulfillment of these prophecies in the rise and fall of empires is seen as a testament to the accuracy and reliability of biblical prophecy.

Symbolism and Theological Significance

The symbolism of the goat and its large horn in Daniel 8, as well as the detailed prophecies in Daniel 11, serve to illustrate the transient nature of earthly kingdoms and the ultimate sovereignty of God. The rise and fall of the "King of Greece" and his successors are depicted as part of a divine plan, underscoring the biblical theme that human history unfolds according to God's purposes.

These passages also serve as a reminder of the spiritual battles that accompany earthly conflicts, as seen in the broader context of Daniel's visions, which include angelic interpretations and insights into the spiritual realm. The "King of Greece" thus becomes a symbol of both historical and spiritual realities, reflecting the complex interplay between human actions and divine will.