Daniel 11:15

Then the king of the North will come, build up a siege ramp, and capture a fortified city. The forces of the South will not stand; even their best troops will not be able to resist.

Study Bible

Then the king of the North will come
This phrase refers to the Seleucid king, part of the Hellenistic kingdoms that emerged after the death of Alexander the Great. The "king of the North" is typically identified as Antiochus III, also known as Antiochus the Great. His kingdom was located in the region of modern-day Syria and extended into parts of Asia Minor. This historical context is crucial as it sets the stage for the ongoing conflict between the Seleucid Empire and the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, which is often referred to as the "king of the South."

build up a siege ramp
Siege warfare was a common military tactic in the ancient Near East, involving the construction of ramps to breach city walls. Archaeological evidence from various ancient sites, such as Lachish, provides insight into these methods. The use of siege ramps indicates a well-planned military strategy aimed at overcoming fortified cities, reflecting the military prowess and determination of the Seleucid forces under Antiochus III.

and capture a fortified city
The fortified city likely refers to Sidon, a strategic location in the ongoing wars between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms. The capture of such a city would have significant military and political implications, demonstrating the shifting power dynamics in the region. This event is part of the larger narrative of the struggle for control over the territories of the former Alexandrian Empire.

The forces of the South will not stand
The "forces of the South" refers to the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, which was in a state of decline during this period. The inability of the Ptolemaic forces to withstand the Seleucid assault highlights the weakening influence of Egypt in the region. This phrase underscores the fulfillment of the prophetic vision of Daniel, where the balance of power shifts in favor of the North.

even their best troops will not be able to resist
This indicates the overwhelming strength and strategic advantage of the Seleucid army. Despite the Ptolemaic forces' efforts, including deploying their elite troops, they were unable to resist the advances of Antiochus III. This reflects the broader theme of divine sovereignty and the unfolding of God's plan as revealed in the prophetic visions of Daniel. The inability to resist also serves as a reminder of the limitations of human power in the face of divine prophecy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King of the North
This refers to a ruler from the northern territories relative to Israel, historically understood as the Seleucid Empire. In the context of Daniel 11, this often points to Antiochus III, also known as Antiochus the Great.

2. King of the South
This represents the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, which was in conflict with the Seleucid Empire during this period.

3. Siege Ramp
A military strategy used in ancient warfare to breach fortified cities. It signifies the determination and military prowess of the King of the North.

4. Fortified City
A city with strong defenses, likely referring to a strategic location in the ongoing conflict between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms.

5. Forces of the South
The military forces of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, which are depicted as unable to withstand the assault from the north.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in History
The rise and fall of kingdoms are under God's control. Understanding this helps us trust in His ultimate plan, even amidst worldly chaos.

The Futility of Human Strength
The inability of the southern forces to stand against the north reminds us that human strength and wisdom are insufficient without God's guidance.

Spiritual Warfare
The physical battles in Daniel reflect the spiritual battles believers face. We must be equipped with the armor of God to stand firm.

Endurance in Trials
Just as the fortified city faced a siege, believers may face trials that test their faith. Endurance and reliance on God are crucial.

Prophetic Fulfillment
The detailed prophecies in Daniel affirm the reliability of Scripture and encourage us to study God's Word diligently.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Daniel 11:15 enhance our comprehension of the passage?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the rise and fall of nations today?

3. How can the concept of spiritual warfare in Ephesians 6:10-18 be applied to the conflicts described in Daniel 11?

4. What lessons can we learn from the failure of the southern forces that can be applied to our personal spiritual battles?

5. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in Daniel encourage us to trust in the promises of God found in other parts of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 8:9-12
This passage also discusses the rise of a powerful king from the north, providing a broader context for the conflicts described in Daniel 11.

Isaiah 10:5-19
This passage speaks of the Assyrian king as an instrument of God's judgment, similar to how the northern kings in Daniel are used to fulfill divine purposes.

Revelation 16:12-16
The end-times battle involving kings from the east and north can be seen as a parallel to the historical conflicts in Daniel, emphasizing the ongoing spiritual warfare.