At the time appointed he shall return, and come toward the south; but it shall not be as the former, or as the latter.
DANIEL 11:29KJVWhat does Daniel 11:29 mean?
Daniel 11:29 says that at a specific, set time, a ruler will again move toward the south, but this campaign will not be like the earlier ones. The verse highlights a change in outcome or circumstances compared to previous attempts.
In the context of Daniel’s vision, the angel is describing future events to Daniel, focusing on a powerful king’s actions—often understood as the king of the north, likely Antiochus IV Epiphanes, moving against the south, which refers to Egypt. Unlike earlier invasions, this time things will unfold differently, hinting at a turning point in the ongoing conflict.
The Hebrew behind Daniel 11:29
- "appointed" (מוֹעֵד, mo‘ed) means a set or fixed time. This word stresses that the timing of these events is not random but determined.
- "former" (רִאשׁוֹן, rishon) and "latter" (אַחֲרוֹן, acharon) refer to earlier and later events. The verse uses these to compare this campaign to previous ones, emphasizing that this attempt will stand out as different from both the earlier and later efforts.
Why Daniel 11:29 matters
- Daniel 11:29 signals a shift in the pattern of conflicts described in the chapter, preparing the reader for a significant change in the story.
- The verse emphasizes that history is unfolding according to a set plan or schedule, not just by human decision, which is a recurring theme in Daniel.
- By comparing this event to previous ones, Daniel 11:29 helps the reader notice the unique outcome of this particular campaign, which sets up the dramatic events that follow in the chapter.