Daniel 11:17 (KJV)

What does Daniel 11:17 mean?

Daniel 11:17 describes a powerful ruler who decides to use the full strength of his kingdom to achieve his goals, including forming alliances with upright people. He tries to secure his position by giving "the daughter of women" to another, intending to corrupt or influence her, but she will not support him or be loyal to his cause.

This verse is part of a prophecy given to Daniel about future political struggles and alliances. The speaker is an angel explaining to Daniel the coming conflicts between powerful kingdoms, often understood as the Seleucid and Ptolemaic empires. The verse uses the image of a royal daughter being given in marriage as a political strategy, but the plan ultimately fails because the daughter does not side with her father's interests.

The Hebrew behind Daniel 11:17

• "Set" (שָׂם, sām): This word means to place or set firmly, showing the ruler's determined intention to act.
• "Strength" (תֹּקֶף, tōqef): This word refers to might or power, highlighting that the ruler is using all his resources.
• "Daughter" (בַּת, bat): In this context, "daughter of women" points to a royal woman, likely used in a political marriage alliance.
• "Corrupting" (שָׁחַת, shāchat): This word often means to ruin or spoil, suggesting the ruler's plan involves deception or manipulation.

Why Daniel 11:17 matters

• Daniel 11:17 shows that even carefully planned political strategies, like marriage alliances, can fail if people do not cooperate as expected.
• The verse highlights the use of personal relationships for political gain, a common theme in ancient royal courts.
• This detail connects to the larger prophecy in Daniel 11, where shifting alliances and betrayals shape the fate of kingdoms, emphasizing the limits of human schemes.