Daniel 11:5

The king of the South will grow strong, but one of his commanders will grow even stronger and will rule his own kingdom with great authority.

Study Bible

The king of the South will grow strong
This phrase refers to the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt, which is historically known as the "king of the South" in the context of the Hellenistic period following the division of Alexander the Great's empire. The Ptolemies were one of the four major divisions of Alexander's empire, and they established a powerful and influential rule in Egypt. The term "grow strong" indicates the initial consolidation and expansion of power under the early Ptolemaic rulers, such as Ptolemy I Soter, who secured Egypt and expanded its influence.

but one of his commanders will grow even stronger
This part of the verse is understood to refer to Seleucus I Nicator, one of Alexander's generals, who initially served under Ptolemy I. Seleucus eventually established the Seleucid Empire, which became more extensive and powerful than the Ptolemaic Kingdom. The phrase highlights the shift in power dynamics, where a subordinate commander surpasses his former superior in strength and influence. This historical development is significant in the context of the ongoing conflicts between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid empires, known as the Syrian Wars.

and will rule his own kingdom with great authority
Seleucus I Nicator's establishment of the Seleucid Empire marked the beginning of a new and formidable kingdom that stretched from the Mediterranean to the borders of India. His rule with "great authority" signifies the effective governance and military prowess that allowed him to maintain control over such a vast territory. This phrase underscores the theme of shifting power and the rise of new empires, which is a recurring motif in the prophetic literature of the Bible. The authority of Seleucus and his successors played a crucial role in the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East, impacting the history of Israel and the surrounding nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The King of the South
This refers to the ruler of Egypt, historically associated with the Ptolemaic dynasty. In the context of Daniel 11, it represents a powerful political entity in the southern region relative to Israel.

2. One of His Commanders
This individual is a subordinate of the King of the South who rises to greater power. Historically, this is often identified as Seleucus I Nicator, who became a significant ruler in the Seleucid Empire.

3. The Kingdom
The kingdom mentioned here is the realm over which the commander will rule. This is historically the Seleucid Empire, which became a dominant force in the Hellenistic world.

4. Great Authority
This phrase indicates the level of power and influence the commander will achieve, surpassing even the king he once served.

5. Historical Context
The events described are part of the prophetic vision given to Daniel, detailing the conflicts between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid empires, which had significant implications for the Jewish people.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The rise and fall of kingdoms are under God's control. Believers can trust that God is sovereign over world events, even when they seem chaotic.

The Unpredictability of Power
Earthly power is temporary and can shift unexpectedly. Christians should place their trust in God's eternal kingdom rather than in human authorities.

The Role of Prophecy
Prophecy serves to prepare and encourage believers. Understanding biblical prophecy can strengthen faith and provide assurance of God's ultimate plan.

Faithfulness in Uncertain Times
Just as Daniel remained faithful amidst political upheaval, Christians are called to remain steadfast in their faith regardless of external circumstances.

The Impact of Leadership
Leadership can have profound effects on nations and individuals. Believers should pray for leaders and seek to influence their communities positively.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the rise of the commander in Daniel 11:5 illustrate the unpredictability of human power, and how can this understanding affect our view of current world leaders?

2. In what ways does the historical context of Daniel 11:5 help us understand the broader account of God's sovereignty in the Bible?

3. How can the themes of prophecy in Daniel 11 encourage us in our personal faith journey today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the shifting powers in Daniel 11:5 about where to place our ultimate trust and hope?

5. How can we apply the principle of praying for our leaders, as seen in the context of Daniel 11, to our current political and social environment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 8:21-22
This passage also discusses the division of Alexander the Great's empire, providing context for the rise of the Seleucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms.

1 Kings 11:11-13
The division of Solomon's kingdom serves as a parallel to the division of Alexander's empire, illustrating how God uses political shifts to fulfill His purposes.

Isaiah 19:1-4
This prophecy against Egypt highlights God's sovereignty over nations, similar to the themes in Daniel 11.