Daniel 11:39
French Jerusalem 1998
Il prendra comme défenseurs des forteresses le peuple d'un dieu étranger, à ceux qu'il reconnaîtra, il fera grands honneurs en leur donnant autorité sur la multitude, et en partageant la terre pour un rendement.
What Does This Mean?
This verse is about a ruler who will honor a foreign god and use his power to spread this worship. He will appoint people based on this belief system and divide the land for personal gain. The speaker here predicts these actions.
Explained for Children
Imagine there's a big playground, and a new kid comes in with their own special toy they really like. This kid becomes the leader of the playground and makes everyone play with his toy all the time. He also decides who gets to use which part of the playground based on how much they like playing with this toy.
Historical Background
Daniel, a prophet living in exile in Babylon around 605-530 BC, wrote these words. They were addressed to future generations and describe events leading up to the time of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who sought to impose Hellenistic culture and worship on his subjects.
Living It Out Today
In today’s world, this verse can remind us about leaders using their power for personal beliefs or gain. For example, a company CEO might promote certain values over others based on what benefits them personally rather than what is best for the employees or stakeholders.
Topics
leadershipworshippowerprophecydivine interventionmoral integrity
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is 'he' in this verse?
'He' refers to a ruler who will honor and spread the worship of foreign gods. This prophecy often points to Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a historical figure from the second century BC.
What does it mean by 'strange god'?
'Strange god' refers to a deity that is not part of the traditional beliefs or practices of the people. In this context, it indicates foreign religious influences being imposed on others.
How should modern readers understand 'divide the land for gain'?
This phrase can be understood as actions taken by leaders to benefit themselves at the expense of others. It warns against leaders using their power selfishly rather than serving the common good.
What are some other prophecies in Daniel?
Daniel contains several prophetic visions, including predictions about future kings and kingdoms (Daniel 2), and end-time events (Daniel 7-12). These chapters highlight divine sovereignty over human history.