Daniel 11:39 (KJV)

What does Daniel 11:39 mean?

Daniel 11:39 describes a powerful ruler who uses the support of a foreign god to gain control over strong fortresses, honors this god, gives authority to others, and divides land for profit. The verse shows how this leader rewards followers and uses religion and wealth to strengthen his rule.

In the book of Daniel, an angel is revealing future events to Daniel, focusing here on a coming king who will act differently from past rulers. The verse highlights how this king will use alliances with a "strange god" to gain influence, reward supporters with positions of power, and distribute land as a way to secure loyalty and personal gain.

The Hebrew behind Daniel 11:39

• "strange" (נֵכָר, nekar): This word means "foreign" or "alien." The verse uses it to describe the god this ruler honors, emphasizing that it is not the traditional God of Israel but a foreign deity.
• "god" (אֱלוֹהַּ, eloah): This is a general word for "god," not the specific name of Israel's God, underlining the foreign nature of the worship.
• "divide" (חָלַק, chalaq): This word means "to divide" or "apportion." Here, it refers to the ruler splitting up land, likely as rewards or bribes, showing a transactional approach to leadership.
• "gain" (מְחִיר, mekhir): This word means "price" or "profit." The verse suggests the land is divided not out of fairness or justice, but for personal or political advantage.

Why Daniel 11:39 matters

• Daniel 11:39 clarifies that the ruler's power is tied to religious and political manipulation, not just military strength.
• The verse shows how loyalty and authority are bought, not earned, which is a theme that runs through the chapter's description of corrupt leadership.
• Understanding the use of a "strange god" and the dividing of land for profit helps explain the broader context of shifting alliances and moral decline in this prophetic vision.