Daniel 11:12

KJV

[And] when he hath taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted up; and he shall cast down [many] ten thousands: but he shall not be strengthened [by it].

KJV (with Strong's)

And when he hath taken away {H5375} the multitude {H1995}, his heart {H3824} shall be lifted up {H7311}{H7311}; and he shall cast down {H5307} many ten thousands {H7239}: but he shall not be strengthened {H5810} by it.

Complete Jewish Bible

and carried off. The conqueror will grow proud as he slaughters tens of thousands, yet he will not prevail.

Berean Standard Bible

When the army is carried off, the king of the South will be proud in heart and will cast down tens of thousands, but he will not triumph.

American Standard Version

And the multitude shall be lifted up, and his heart shall be exalted; and he shall cast down tens of thousands, but he shall not prevail.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:12 prophesies the aftermath of a significant military victory by the King of the South (Ptolemy IV Philopator) over the King of the North (Antiochus III) at the Battle of Raphia. Despite inflicting massive casualties and achieving a resounding triumph, the verse foretells that the victor's heart would be lifted up in pride, and this success would ultimately fail to strengthen his kingdom in a lasting way.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11 is a remarkable chapter, providing an incredibly detailed prophetic outline of the conflicts between the "King of the North" (the Seleucid dynasty, ruling from Syria) and the "King of the South" (the Ptolemaic dynasty, ruling from Egypt) in the Hellenistic period following Alexander the Great's death. This long prophecy, stretching from Daniel's own time into the distant future, meticulously describes specific battles, alliances, marriages, and betrayals. Verse 12 specifically follows the description of the fourth Ptolemaic-Seleucid war, culminating in the Battle of Raphia (217 BC). The preceding verses, particularly [Daniel 11:10-11](/daniel/11-10-11 "Daniel 11:10-11 - The King of the North's Advance"), set the stage for Antiochus III's initial success and subsequent defeat at the hands of Ptolemy IV, to which verse 12 directly responds.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described in Daniel 11:12 falls within the Hellenistic era, a time of intense geopolitical struggle among the Diadochi, the successors of Alexander the Great. The Ptolemaic kingdom in Egypt and the Seleucid kingdom in Syria were the dominant powers, constantly vying for control over the strategically vital region of Coele-Syria. The "King of the South" in this verse is Ptolemy IV Philopator, and the "King of the North" is Antiochus III the Great. The Battle of Raphia in 217 BC was a decisive victory for Ptolemy IV, where he personally led his forces, including native Egyptian troops, to defeat Antiochus III. Culturally, the Hellenistic world was characterized by a blend of Greek and local traditions, with rulers often adopting divine titles and exhibiting immense pride in their military achievements, a common trait that would have been understood by Daniel's audience.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Daniel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Pride and Arrogance**, showing how even a monumental victory can lead to an inflated sense of self-importance and a disregard for divine humility. Ptolemy IV's "heart shall be lifted up" directly foreshadows his subsequent moral decline and misrule, echoing the biblical principle that [pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Precedes Destruction"). Secondly, the phrase "he shall not be strengthened by it" introduces the theme of **Temporary Triumph and Illusory Strength**. Despite the immense military success and the "casting down many ten thousands," the victory did not translate into lasting national prosperity or internal stability for Ptolemy IV's kingdom. His reign after Raphia was marked by indulgence, internal revolts, and a weakening of the empire, demonstrating that worldly power is often fleeting and does not equate to true, enduring strength. This aligns with the biblical emphasis on the vanity of human efforts apart from God's blessing, as seen in [Psalm 33:16-17](/psalms/33-16-17 "Psalm 33:16-17 - No King is Saved by the Size of His Army"). Finally, underlying this specific historical detail is the pervasive theme of **Divine Sovereignty**, a cornerstone of the book of Daniel. The meticulous nature of the prophecy underscores God's absolute control over the rise and fall of empires and kings, demonstrating that even the most powerful human rulers operate within His predetermined plan, as declared in [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **multitude (Hebrew, _hâmôwn'_):** This term (H1995) refers to a noise, tumult, or crowd, often signifying a large gathering, a multitude, or even wealth and abundance. In Daniel 11:12, it specifically denotes the vast army of Antiochus III, which Ptolemy IV "taken away," meaning he defeated and decimated this numerous host. The word emphasizes the sheer scale of the forces involved and the magnitude of the victory.
* **lifted up (Hebrew, _rûwm'_):** The verb (H7311) means "to be high," "to rise," or "to raise." While it can denote righteous exaltation, in this context, when applied to the "heart," it carries a strong negative connotation of arrogance, haughtiness, and excessive pride. The Septuagint translates it with words implying inflation or being puffed up, indicating a spiritual state of self-exaltation rather than humble gratitude for victory.
* **strengthened (Hebrew, _ʻâzaz'_):** This primitive root (H5810) means "to be stout," "to be strong," "to prevail," or "to harden." In the negative, "he shall not be strengthened by it," it conveys that the victory, despite its military grandeur, would not result in lasting power, internal stability, or true national vigor for Ptolemy IV. His kingdom would not become more robust or secure as a direct consequence of this triumph.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when he hath taken away the multitude":** This clause refers to Ptolemy IV Philopator's decisive military victory over Antiochus III at the Battle of Raphia (217 BC). "Taken away" signifies the destruction, defeat, and removal of the opposing army, emphasizing the completeness of his triumph over Antiochus's large forces.
* **"his heart shall be lifted up":** This is a prophetic statement about Ptolemy IV's reaction to his victory. It indicates that his success would lead to extreme pride, arrogance, and an inflated sense of self-importance. This spiritual condition would manifest in his subsequent actions and reign.
* **"and he shall cast down many ten thousands":** This reiterates the immense scale of the defeat inflicted upon Antiochus III's army. "Many ten thousands" (a myriad) is a hyperbolic expression emphasizing the vast number of casualties or the overwhelming nature of the victory, underscoring the military might displayed by Ptolemy.
* **"but he shall not be strengthened by it":** This crucial concluding phrase reveals the paradox of worldly triumph. Despite the overwhelming victory and the immense power demonstrated, this success would not bring lasting strength or stability to Ptolemy IV's kingdom. Historically, Ptolemy IV's reign after Raphia was marked by moral decay, internal strife, and a weakening of the Ptolemaic empire due to his personal indulgences and poor governance, illustrating that military success alone does not guarantee true national strength.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 11:12 employs several literary techniques to convey its prophetic message. **Hyperbole** is evident in the phrase "many ten thousands" (Hebrew: _ribbôw_), which is a myriad, signifying an indefinitely large number. This exaggeration emphasizes the immense scale of the defeat inflicted by Ptolemy IV, highlighting the overwhelming nature of his victory. The phrase "his heart shall be lifted up" is an **idiom** or a form of **metonymy**, where "heart" represents the inner being, mind, or character, and "lifted up" signifies pride or arrogance. This vivid imagery immediately conveys the spiritual state of the victorious king. Furthermore, the verse uses **antithesis** or **contrast** between the initial triumph and the subsequent lack of lasting benefit: "he shall cast down many ten thousands: but he shall not be strengthened by it." This stark contrast underscores the fleeting nature of worldly success when accompanied by pride, serving as a prophetic warning that outward victory does not always equate to true, enduring strength. The entire verse, of course, functions as **prophecy**, a predictive statement about future historical events, demonstrating God's foreknowledge and sovereign control.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 11:12 serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of human power, pride, and divine sovereignty. It illustrates that even the most spectacular worldly victories, achieved through immense military might, can be ultimately hollow and fail to produce lasting strength when accompanied by arrogance and a lack of humility. The "lifting up" of the heart is consistently condemned in Scripture as an affront to God, who opposes the proud. This verse reminds us that true strength and stability do not come from human achievements or military might, but from a posture of humility and dependence on God. It highlights the vanity of human ambition when it displaces God, demonstrating that He is the ultimate arbiter of the rise and fall of nations and individuals.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")
* [James 4:6](/james/4-6 "James 4:6 - God Resists the Proud")
* [Psalm 33:16-17](/psalms/33-16-17 "Psalm 33:16-17 - No King is Saved by the Size of His Army")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 11:12 offers a timeless warning against the insidious nature of pride, especially in the wake of success. Whether in personal achievements, professional advancements, or even spiritual growth, it's easy for our "heart to be lifted up." This verse challenges us to examine our reactions to success: Do we attribute it solely to our own efforts, intelligence, or strength, or do we acknowledge divine grace and providence? An inflated ego can lead to poor judgment, moral compromise, and ultimately, a weakening of our character and influence, just as it did for Ptolemy IV. True, lasting strength—whether for an individual, a family, or an organization—is not built on fleeting triumphs or self-exaltation, but on humility, integrity, and a recognition of our dependence on God. This passage encourages us to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and humility, understanding that all good things come from above, and that true power is found in aligning ourselves with God's will, not in asserting our own.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I typically respond to personal successes or significant achievements in my life? Am I prone to pride or humility?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to let my "heart be lifted up," and what practical steps can I take to cultivate a spirit of humility?**
* **What does "true strength" mean in a biblical sense, and how does it differ from the worldly definitions of power and success?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "he" in Daniel 11:12, and what "multitude" is being referred to?**

Answer: The "he" in Daniel 11:12 refers to Ptolemy IV Philopator, the King of the South (ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom in Egypt). The "multitude" refers to the vast army of Antiochus III the Great, the King of the North (ruler of the Seleucid Empire). This verse describes Ptolemy IV's decisive victory over Antiochus III at the Battle of Raphia in 217 BC, where he "took away" or defeated Antiochus's large forces.

**What is the meaning of "but he shall not be strengthened by it"?**

Answer: This phrase signifies that despite Ptolemy IV's overwhelming military victory at Raphia and the immense casualties inflicted on his enemy, this triumph would not lead to lasting strength, stability, or prosperity for his kingdom. Historically, Ptolemy IV's reign after Raphia was marked by personal indulgence, moral decay, and internal rebellions, which ultimately weakened the Ptolemaic empire. The prophecy indicates that external military success, when coupled with internal spiritual and moral failings (represented by his "heart being lifted up"), does not guarantee true or enduring strength. It highlights the fleeting nature of worldly power and the importance of character and wise governance for true national well-being, a theme echoed in [Proverbs 14:34](/proverbs/14-34 "Proverbs 14:34 - Righteousness Exalts a Nation").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 11:12 describes the prideful and ultimately fleeting victory of an earthly king, it foreshadows by contrast the profound and eternal victory of Jesus Christ. Unlike Ptolemy IV, whose heart was "lifted up" in arrogance after his triumph, Jesus, though possessing all divine power and authority, chose to humble Himself, taking the form of a servant and becoming obedient to death on a cross, as beautifully articulated in [Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation"). His victory over sin, death, and the powers of darkness was not achieved through worldly military might or the "casting down many ten thousands" in a physical battle, but through self-sacrificial love and apparent weakness, triumphing over them by the cross ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph over Principalities and Powers")). Furthermore, unlike Ptolemy IV, who "shall not be strengthened by it," Christ's victory on the cross brought about eternal strength, salvation, and the establishment of an everlasting kingdom that will never be destroyed ([Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - The Son of Man's Everlasting Dominion")). His strength is made perfect in weakness, and His reign is characterized by humility, grace, and enduring power, offering true and lasting strength to all who believe in Him ([2_Corinthians 12:9](/2_corinthians/12-9 "2 Corinthians 12:9 - God's Grace is Sufficient")). He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, whose dominion is not temporary but eternal ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 12:22

And the people gave a shout, [saying, It is] the voice of a god, and not of a man.

Acts 12:23

And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.

1 Peter 5:5

¶ Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

Daniel 8:25

And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify [himself] in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand.

Proverbs 16:18

¶ Pride [goeth] before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Daniel 5:23

But hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou, and thy lords, thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk wine in them; and thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know: and the God in whose hand thy breath [is], and whose [are] all thy ways, hast thou not glorified:

1 Timothy 3:6

Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.