Daniel 11:6

After some years they will form an alliance, and the daughter of the king of the South will go to the king of the North to seal the agreement. But his daughter will not retain her position of power, nor will his strength endure. At that time she will be given up, along with her royal escort and her father and the one who supported her.

Study Bible

After some years they will form an alliance
This phrase refers to a political alliance formed between the kingdoms of the North and the South, historically identified as the Seleucid Empire (North) and the Ptolemaic Kingdom (South). This alliance is a strategic move to consolidate power and influence in the region. The historical context involves the ongoing conflicts between these Hellenistic kingdoms following the division of Alexander the Great's empire. The alliance is a temporary solution to ongoing hostilities, reflecting the fragile nature of political agreements in the ancient world.

and the daughter of the king of the South will go to the king of the North to seal the agreement
The daughter mentioned here is historically identified as Berenice, the daughter of Ptolemy II Philadelphus of Egypt. She was given in marriage to Antiochus II Theos of the Seleucid Empire to solidify the alliance. This practice of using marriage to secure political alliances was common in the ancient Near East. The cultural context highlights the role of women in diplomacy, often used as pawns in the power struggles of their male relatives.

But his daughter will not retain her position of power
Berenice's inability to retain her position of power is a result of the political intrigue and betrayal that followed her marriage. After the death of Ptolemy II, Antiochus II took back his former wife, Laodice, who then orchestrated the murder of Berenice and her son. This phrase underscores the precarious nature of political alliances and the vulnerability of those used to secure them.

nor will his strength endure
This refers to the eventual downfall of Antiochus II's power. The political instability and internal strife within the Seleucid Empire weakened its strength. The phrase can be seen as a fulfillment of the prophecy, illustrating the transient nature of human power and the ultimate sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations.

At that time she will be given up, along with her royal escort and her father and the one who supported her
This phrase indicates the complete failure of the alliance and the tragic end of Berenice and her supporters. Historically, Berenice, her son, and her attendants were killed, and her father, Ptolemy II, had already died. The phrase highlights the futility of human schemes against divine prophecy. It also serves as a reminder of the cost of political machinations and the often brutal outcomes for those involved. Theologically, it can be seen as a type of the ultimate justice and judgment that God will bring upon the earth, as seen in other prophetic scriptures.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King of the South
Refers to the ruler of Egypt, historically associated with the Ptolemaic dynasty.

2. King of the North
Refers to the ruler of the Seleucid Empire, which was located in the region of modern-day Syria and surrounding areas.

3. Daughter of the King of the South
Historically, this is believed to be Berenice, daughter of Ptolemy II of Egypt, who was given in marriage to Antiochus II of the Seleucid Empire.

4. Alliance
A political marriage intended to create peace and strengthen ties between the two kingdoms.

5. Betrayal and Downfall
The failure of the alliance and the subsequent betrayal and downfall of Berenice and her supporters.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Human Alliances
Human alliances, especially those based on political expediency, are often fragile and unreliable. True security and peace come from trusting in God rather than in human agreements.

The Sovereignty of God
Despite human plans and alliances, God's purposes will prevail. This passage reminds us of God's ultimate control over the affairs of nations and individuals.

The Consequences of Betrayal
Betrayal leads to downfall and destruction. This serves as a warning to maintain integrity and faithfulness in our relationships and commitments.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
The involvement of Berenice in this historical event shows that women, too, play significant roles in God's unfolding plan, even when the outcomes are tragic.

Trust in God's Wisdom
In a world full of political maneuvering and shifting alliances, believers are called to trust in God's wisdom and guidance rather than in human strategies.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the failed alliance in Daniel 11:6 illustrate the limitations of human wisdom and planning?

2. In what ways can we apply the lesson of God's sovereignty from this passage to our personal lives today?

3. How does the account of Berenice and the political alliance challenge us to consider the role of integrity and faithfulness in our own relationships?

4. What other biblical examples can you think of where human alliances failed, and how did God demonstrate His sovereignty in those situations?

5. How can we ensure that our trust remains in God rather than in human institutions or leaders, especially in times of uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 31:1
This verse warns against relying on political alliances and human strength rather than trusting in God. It parallels the futility of the alliance in Daniel 11:6.

Proverbs 21:30
This verse emphasizes that no wisdom, understanding, or counsel can prevail against the Lord, highlighting the ultimate futility of human schemes.

Psalm 146:3-4
These verses caution against putting trust in princes and human plans, which aligns with the failure of the political alliance in Daniel 11:6.