Daniel 11:3

Then a mighty king will arise, who will rule with great authority and do as he pleases.

Study Bible

Then a mighty king will arise
This phrase refers to a powerful ruler who emerges on the historical scene. In the context of Daniel 11, this is widely understood to be Alexander the Great, the king of Macedonia, who rose to power in the 4th century BC. Alexander's conquests were unprecedented, and he established one of the largest empires in ancient history. His rise was swift and marked by significant military victories, including the defeat of the Persian Empire. This aligns with the prophetic vision in Daniel, which often uses symbolic language to describe historical events and figures.

who will rule with great authority
Alexander's rule was characterized by his absolute authority and the vast extent of his empire, which stretched from Greece to Egypt and into parts of India. His ability to command and control such a diverse and expansive territory was unparalleled at the time. This phrase highlights the extent of his power and the centralized control he maintained over his empire. Historically, Alexander's authority was not just military but also cultural, as he spread Greek culture and language throughout his empire, a period known as the Hellenistic Age.

and do as he pleases
This part of the verse emphasizes the autonomy and unchecked power of Alexander's reign. He was known for his bold and decisive actions, often acting according to his own will without opposition. This reflects the historical accounts of his campaigns and the way he managed his empire. Alexander's ability to act freely and implement his strategies without significant resistance is a testament to his dominance and the fear he instilled in both his allies and enemies. This phrase also serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human power, as even the mightiest rulers are subject to the sovereignty of God, a recurring theme in the book of Daniel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mighty King
This refers to a powerful ruler who will emerge with significant authority. Historically, many conservative scholars identify this king as Alexander the Great, who established a vast empire and ruled with absolute power.

2. Rule with Great Authority
This phrase indicates the king's dominion and control over a large territory, emphasizing his ability to govern without opposition.

3. Do as He Pleases
This suggests the king's autonomy and freedom to act according to his own will, without being constrained by others.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Earthly Kingdoms
Despite the rise of powerful rulers, God remains in control. Believers can trust that no earthly authority operates outside of God's sovereign plan.

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Power
The mighty king's rule, though significant, is temporary. This reminds us to focus on eternal values rather than temporal power and success.

The Importance of Humility
The autonomy of the mighty king serves as a caution against pride. Believers are called to humility, recognizing that all authority is granted by God.

Trust in God's Ultimate Justice
While rulers may act as they please, God's justice will ultimately prevail. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God will right all wrongs in His perfect timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the rise of the mighty king in Daniel 11:3 illustrate the temporary nature of earthly power, and how can this perspective influence our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the sovereignty of God over rulers, as seen in Daniel 11:3 and Proverbs 21:1, provide comfort and assurance in times of political uncertainty?

3. How can the autonomy of the mighty king serve as a warning against pride in our own lives, and what steps can we take to cultivate humility?

4. Considering the connections between Daniel 11:3 and Revelation 13:5-7, how should believers respond to the rise of powerful leaders who act contrary to God's will?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced God's justice prevailing over human authority. How does this reinforce your trust in God's ultimate plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 8:21-22
This passage also refers to a powerful king, often identified as Alexander the Great, and describes the division of his empire after his death, which aligns with the events following the rise of the mighty king in Daniel 11:3.

Proverbs 21:1
This verse speaks to the sovereignty of God over the hearts of kings, reminding us that even mighty rulers are ultimately under God's control.

Revelation 13:5-7
This passage describes a future ruler who will exercise authority and do as he pleases, drawing a parallel to the autonomy of the king in Daniel 11:3.