Daniel 11:12

When the army is carried off, the king of the South will be proud in heart and will cast down tens of thousands, but he will not triumph.

Study Bible

When the army is carried off
This phrase suggests a significant military defeat or dispersal. The Hebrew root here can be linked to the idea of being swept away or carried off, indicating a forceful removal or destruction. Historically, this could refer to the many battles and conflicts that the kingdoms of the ancient Near East experienced. In the context of Daniel, it reflects the tumultuous period of the Hellenistic kingdoms following the death of Alexander the Great, where armies were often defeated and territories changed hands frequently. Spiritually, this can be seen as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations.

the king of the South
This refers to the ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, which was based in Egypt. The "South" in the context of Daniel often denotes Egypt, as opposed to the "North," which refers to the Seleucid Empire. The historical context here is the ongoing conflict between these two Hellenistic kingdoms, known as the Syrian Wars. These wars were characterized by shifting alliances and power struggles, which are a backdrop to the prophecies in Daniel. From a spiritual perspective, this highlights the futility of human ambition and the inevitable rise and fall of earthly kingdoms.

will grow proud
The phrase indicates a rise in arrogance or self-exaltation. The Hebrew word often translated as "proud" can also mean to be lifted up or exalted. This pride is a common theme in the Bible, where it often precedes a fall or judgment. Historically, this could refer to the Ptolemaic rulers who, after a victory, might have become overconfident. Spiritually, it serves as a warning against pride, reminding believers of the biblical principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).

and slaughter many thousands
This phrase indicates a large-scale loss of life, likely in the context of battle. The Hebrew here emphasizes the magnitude of the slaughter, suggesting a devastating military campaign. Historically, this reflects the brutal nature of ancient warfare, where battles often resulted in significant casualties. In the context of Daniel, it underscores the destructive consequences of the conflicts between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid empires. Spiritually, it serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of war and the value of peace, urging believers to seek God's peace and justice in a world often marked by violence.

but he will not remain triumphant
This phrase indicates the temporary nature of the king's success. The Hebrew suggests that his triumph will not endure, pointing to the fleeting nature of human victories. Historically, this reflects the pattern of the Ptolemaic and Seleucid conflicts, where victories were often short-lived, and power dynamics shifted rapidly. Spiritually, this serves as a reminder of the impermanence of worldly success and the enduring nature of God's kingdom. It encourages believers to place their trust not in earthly power but in the eternal sovereignty of God, who alone remains triumphant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The King of the South
This refers to the ruler of Egypt, historically understood to be part of the Ptolemaic dynasty during the Hellenistic period. The "king of the South" is a key figure in the conflicts described in Daniel 11.

2. The Army
The army mentioned here is likely the military forces of the king of the South, which are involved in the ongoing conflicts with the king of the North.

3. Pride
The king of the South's pride is a central theme in this verse, highlighting the dangers of arrogance and overconfidence.

4. Slaughter of Many Thousands
This event signifies a significant military victory for the king of the South, yet it is ultimately hollow as it does not lead to lasting success.

5. Failure to Prevail
Despite the initial victory, the king of the South's pride leads to his downfall, illustrating the transient nature of earthly power.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Pride
Pride can lead to temporary victories but often results in ultimate failure. Believers should guard against arrogance and seek humility.

The Transience of Earthly Power
Earthly victories and power are fleeting. True success is found in aligning with God's will and purposes.

The Importance of Humility
Humility is a virtue that God honors. Christians are called to humble themselves before God and others.

Learning from History
The historical events in Daniel serve as lessons for contemporary believers, reminding us of the consequences of pride and the importance of humility.

Trusting in God's Sovereignty
Despite human conflicts and failures, God's sovereign plan prevails. Believers can trust in His ultimate control over history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the pride of the king of the South in Daniel 11:12 serve as a warning for us today?

2. In what ways can we guard against pride in our personal and spiritual lives?

3. How does the theme of pride and downfall in Daniel 11:12 connect with the teachings of Proverbs 16:18 and James 4:6?

4. What can we learn from the transient nature of earthly power as demonstrated in this passage?

5. How can we apply the lessons of humility and reliance on God’s sovereignty in our daily decision-making and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 16:18
This verse speaks to the theme of pride leading to destruction, which is mirrored in the king of the South's experience.

James 4:6
This New Testament passage emphasizes God's opposition to the proud and His favor towards the humble, reinforcing the lesson learned from the king of the South's downfall.

1 Corinthians 10:12
This verse warns believers to be cautious when they think they stand firm, lest they fall, paralleling the king's overconfidence and subsequent failure.