Daniel 11:37

He will show no regard for the gods of his fathers, nor for the one desired by women, nor for any other god, because he will magnify himself above them all.

Study Bible

He will show no regard for the gods of his fathers
This phrase suggests a departure from traditional religious beliefs, indicating a significant shift in allegiance or faith. Historically, this could refer to a ruler or leader who abandons the deities worshiped by his ancestors, which was a radical move in ancient cultures where continuity of worship was common. In the context of Daniel, this is often interpreted as a prophecy about a future ruler who will reject the established religious norms. This can be connected to the broader theme in Daniel of rulers who defy God, such as Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar, who both faced consequences for their pride and idolatry.

nor for the one desired by women
This phrase has been subject to various interpretations. Some suggest it refers to a specific deity, possibly Tammuz or Adonis, who was associated with fertility and was particularly revered by women in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Others interpret it as a reference to the Messiah, whom Jewish women desired to be the mother of, thus indicating a rejection of the messianic hope. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of the Antichrist figure who opposes Christ and His followers.

nor for any other god
This indicates a total rejection of all forms of deity, suggesting an atheistic or self-deifying stance. In the historical context of Daniel, this could be seen as a ruler who places himself above all religious systems, similar to the actions of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who desecrated the Jewish temple. This behavior is echoed in the New Testament's depiction of the Antichrist, who exalts himself above all that is called God (2 Thessalonians 2:4).

because he will magnify himself above them all
This phrase highlights the pride and self-exaltation of the figure in question, a common theme in biblical prophecy concerning end-times rulers. This self-magnification is reminiscent of Lucifer's fall due to pride (Isaiah 14:12-14) and is a direct challenge to the sovereignty of God. In the context of Daniel, it serves as a warning against the dangers of hubris and the ultimate downfall that comes from setting oneself above God, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture, including the accounts of the Tower of Babel and the pride of Herod Agrippa.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The King
This passage refers to a king who is characterized by his arrogance and self-exaltation. He is often interpreted as a type of antichrist figure, representing ultimate rebellion against God.

2. Gods of his fathers
This phrase suggests the traditional deities or religious practices of the king's ancestors, which he disregards.

3. Desire of women
This could refer to a cultural or religious expectation, possibly linked to the Messiah, whom Jewish women desired to bear, or it could indicate a general disregard for natural affections and relationships.

4. Self-exaltation
The king's primary characteristic is his pride and self-glorification, placing himself above all divine authority.

5. End Times Context
This passage is often viewed within the broader eschatological framework of Daniel, pointing to events in the end times.

Teaching Points

Understanding Pride and Self-Exaltation
Pride is a root sin that leads to rebellion against God. Believers are called to humility, recognizing God's sovereignty and authority.

Disregard for Tradition and Faith
The king's rejection of the "gods of his fathers" can be seen as a warning against abandoning foundational truths and faith traditions for self-serving ideologies.

The Role of Affections and Desires
The phrase "desire of women" can remind us of the importance of natural affections and relationships, which should not be neglected or disdained.

Eschatological Awareness
Understanding the characteristics of the antichrist figure helps believers remain vigilant and discerning in the face of spiritual deception.

Magnifying God Above All
In contrast to the king's self-exaltation, Christians are called to magnify God above all, living lives that reflect His glory and authority.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the king in Daniel 11:37 challenge us to examine our own attitudes towards pride and self-exaltation?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we do not disregard the foundational truths of our faith, as the king disregarded the "gods of his fathers"?

3. How can the phrase "desire of women" inform our understanding of the importance of relationships and affections in our spiritual lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the king in Daniel 11:37 and the "man of lawlessness" in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, and how does this inform our understanding of end times?

5. How can we actively magnify God above all in our daily lives, countering the self-exalting tendencies seen in the king of Daniel 11:37?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4
This passage describes the "man of lawlessness" who exalts himself above all that is called God, paralleling the self-exaltation seen in Daniel 11:37.

Revelation 13:5-6
The beast in Revelation blasphemes God and exalts itself, similar to the king in Daniel 11:37.

Isaiah 14:13-14
The pride and self-exaltation of Lucifer, who sought to ascend above God, mirrors the attitude of the king in Daniel 11:37.