Daniel 11:17

KJV

He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole kingdom, and upright ones with him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him the daughter of women, corrupting her: but she shall not stand [on his side], neither be for him.

KJV (with Strong's)

He shall also set {H7760} his face {H6440} to enter {H935} with the strength {H8633} of his whole kingdom {H4438}, and upright ones {H3477} with him; thus shall he do {H6213}: and he shall give {H5414} him the daughter {H1323} of women {H802}, corrupting {H7843} her: but she shall not stand {H5975} on his side, neither be for him.

Complete Jewish Bible

He will determinedly advance with the full force of his kingdom, but he will make an agreement with the king of the south and give him a daughter in marriage. His object will be to destroy him, but the agreement will not last or work out in his favor.

Berean Standard Bible

He will resolve to come with the strength of his whole kingdom, and will reach an agreement with the king of the South. He will give him a daughter in marriage in order to overthrow the kingdom, but his plan will not succeed or help him.

American Standard Version

And he shall set his face to come with the strength of his whole kingdom, and with him equitable conditions; and he shall perform them: and he shall give him the daughter of women, to corrupt her; but she shall not stand, neither be for him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:17 details a strategic maneuver by the "King of the North" (Antiochus III) against the "King of the South" (Ptolemy V), where Antiochus attempts to consolidate power not through direct military conquest, but by offering his daughter in marriage. This seemingly peaceful alliance is revealed as a calculated act of corruption, designed to undermine the Ptolemaic kingdom from within. However, the prophecy declares the ultimate failure of this scheme, as the daughter would not remain loyal to her father's imperial ambitions, highlighting the limits of human cunning against divine foresight.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11 is a remarkable chapter, unique in its detailed prophetic accuracy, outlining the conflicts between the Seleucid (King of the North) and Ptolemaic (King of the South) dynasties following the breakup of Alexander the Great's empire. Verses 1-4 describe the Persian Empire and Alexander. Verses 5-19 specifically detail the wars between these two Hellenistic powers, often referred to as the Syrian Wars. Daniel 11:17 falls within a section describing the campaigns of Antiochus III the Great. Preceding verses (e.g., [Daniel 11:15-16](/daniel/11-15-16 "Daniel 11:15-16 - Antiochus III's Victories")) portray Antiochus's military successes, including the capture of fortified cities and his entry into the "glorious land." Verse 17 then shifts from direct military confrontation to a more subtle, diplomatic, yet equally insidious strategy, indicating a change in the King of the North's approach to achieving dominance over the King of the South.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events prophesied in Daniel 11:17 refer to a specific historical alliance around 193 BC. Following his victories in the Fifth Syrian War, Antiochus III, the Seleucid king, sought to secure his gains and further weaken the Ptolemaic kingdom of Egypt. Instead of continued warfare, he pursued a marriage alliance, a common political tool in the ancient Near East. He offered his daughter, Cleopatra I Syra, in marriage to the young Ptolemy V Epiphanes of Egypt. Such marriages were intended to forge bonds, secure peace, and extend influence. However, Antiochus's true intention was to "corrupt" or subvert Egypt through his daughter's position, hoping she would serve his interests within the Egyptian court. This period was characterized by constant geopolitical maneuvering, shifting alliances, and dynastic marriages, all aimed at securing regional hegemony.

* **Key Themes:** This verse, within the broader context of Daniel 11, contributes to several significant themes. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **political manipulation and deceit**, revealing how even seemingly peaceful overtures can mask ulterior motives. Antiochus's offer was not one of genuine reconciliation but a calculated move to gain an advantage. Secondly, it highlights the **futility of human schemes** when they oppose God's ultimate plan. Despite Antiochus's cunning, the prophecy explicitly states that his daughter "shall not stand [on his side], neither be for him," a historical reality where Cleopatra I eventually prioritized her new kingdom and husband over her father's ambitions. This reinforces the overarching theme of **divine sovereignty over human history**, a foundational truth throughout the book of Daniel, as seen in passages like [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons") where God "removes kings and sets up kings," and [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God Rules in the Kingdom of Men"), which declares that "the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men."

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **set his face (Hebrew, _sûwm pânîym'_):** From H7760 (sûwm, "to put") and H6440 (pânîym, "face"). This idiom signifies a determined resolve or fixed purpose. When someone "sets their face" towards something, it indicates an unwavering commitment to a course of action, often with a strong will or aggressive intent. Here, Antiochus III is depicted as resolutely determined to achieve his objective.
* **daughter (Hebrew, _bath'_):** H1323 (bath). This term refers to a female offspring, but in broader usage, it can denote a member of a group or even a characteristic. In this context, "the daughter of women" (H1323 + H802, 'ishshâh) simply emphasizes her human origin, a common Hebrew idiom, highlighting her role as a pawn in political games rather than a divinely appointed figure.
* **corrupting (Hebrew, _shâchath'_):** H7843 (shâchath). This verb means to decay, ruin, destroy, or spoil. In this context, it implies an intent to undermine, subvert, or bring to ruin the Ptolemaic kingdom through the marriage alliance. Antiochus's aim was not merely to form a peaceful bond but to strategically weaken Egypt by placing an agent (his own daughter) within its royal family.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole kingdom":** This clause describes the King of the North's (Antiochus III) resolute determination and the full extent of his power and resources being brought to bear. "Set his face" indicates a fixed purpose, while "strength of his whole kingdom" implies a comprehensive and formidable effort, whether military or diplomatic, to achieve his goals against the King of the South.
* **"and upright ones with him; thus shall he do":** This part is debated among scholars. "Upright ones" (H3477, yâshâr) could refer to those who are morally straight or just, or perhaps simply those who are "straightforward" or "loyal" to him, indicating a unified and strong contingent supporting his actions. The phrase "thus shall he do" confirms that this calculated strategy will indeed be put into motion.
* **"and he shall give him the daughter of women, corrupting her":** This is the core of the new strategy. The King of the North offers his daughter (Cleopatra I) in marriage to the King of the South (Ptolemy V). The crucial phrase "corrupting her" (H7843, shâchath) reveals the sinister intent behind the alliance: to spoil, ruin, or undermine the Ptolemaic kingdom through the influence of his daughter, essentially planting an agent within the rival court.
* **"but she shall not stand [on his side], neither be for him":** This final, declarative statement reveals the ultimate failure of Antiochus's cunning plan. Despite his intentions, the daughter (Cleopatra I) would not remain loyal to her father's cause. Historically, Cleopatra I, once married to Ptolemy V and mother to Ptolemy VI, largely sided with her husband and her new kingdom, Egypt, rather than serving as an agent for her father's Seleucid ambitions. This demonstrates the limits of human control and the unpredictable nature of outcomes, often contrary to the schemer's will.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 11:17 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its prophetic message. The primary device is **Prophecy**, where future historical events are detailed with remarkable precision, demonstrating divine foreknowledge. The specific mention of "the daughter of women" serves as **Metonymy**, where the daughter represents the political alliance and the means of attempted subversion. There is also a strong element of **Irony** in the verse: Antiochus's elaborate plan, intended to "corrupt" and gain control, ultimately fails because the very instrument of his scheme (his daughter) does not remain loyal to his cause. This failure of human cunning in the face of unforeseen circumstances or divine will underscores the broader theme of **Divine Sovereignty** that pervades the book of Daniel, subtly implying that God's ultimate plan cannot be thwarted by the machinations of earthly kings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 11:17, while describing ancient political intrigue, profoundly illustrates the theological truth of God's sovereign control over human history. It reveals that even the most cunning and powerful human schemes, cloaked in diplomatic overtures like marriage alliances, are ultimately subject to divine oversight. Antiochus III's attempt to "corrupt" the Ptolemaic kingdom from within, though meticulously planned, was foretold to fail, demonstrating that human will and ambition, no matter how strong or deceptive, cannot thwart the preordained course of events known and permitted by God. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder that God is not merely an observer but the orchestrator of history, working out His purposes even through the rise and fall of empires and the intricate web of human relationships and political maneuvers.

* [Proverbs 19:21](/proverbs/19-21 "Proverbs 19:21 - The Lord's Counsel Shall Stand")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord Frustrates the Plans of Nations")
* [Isaiah 46:10](/isaiah/46-10 "Isaiah 46:10 - Declaring the End from the Beginning")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed prophecy of Daniel 11:17 offers profound insights for contemporary reflection and application. It serves as a powerful reminder that human intentions, even when presented as peaceful or beneficial, can be deeply rooted in self-interest, a desire for control, and a willingness to manipulate others. We are called to cultivate discernment, not to be naive about the motives behind various overtures, whether in personal relationships, business dealings, or political spheres. More importantly, this verse provides immense spiritual comfort: despite the complexity and often deceptive nature of worldly affairs, God's ultimate purposes remain unthwarted. The failure of Antiochus's scheme, precisely as foretold, assures us that no human power, no cunning strategy, and no amount of worldly strength can ultimately derail God's sovereign plan. This truth allows believers to live with peace and confidence in a tumultuous world, knowing that the Lord reigns supreme over all kingdoms and all human endeavors.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed fulfillment of this prophecy strengthen your faith in God's sovereignty over history and current events?**
* **In what areas of your life might you be tempted to use cunning or manipulation to achieve your desired outcomes, rather than trusting in God's timing and methods?**
* **How can the assurance that human schemes ultimately fail to thwart God's purposes bring you peace in the face of present-day political or social turmoil?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "King of the North" and "King of the South" in Daniel 11?**

Answer: In Daniel 11, the "King of the North" and "King of the South" refer to the Seleucid and Ptolemaic dynasties, respectively, which emerged from the division of Alexander the Great's empire. The King of the North typically represents the Seleucid rulers who controlled Syria and Mesopotamia, while the King of the South represents the Ptolemaic rulers who controlled Egypt. Daniel 11:17 specifically refers to Antiochus III (King of the North) and Ptolemy V Epiphanes (King of the South). This chapter provides an incredibly detailed prophecy of the conflicts and interactions between these two Hellenistic powers leading up to the time of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a figure who foreshadows the ultimate antichrist.

**What does "corrupting her" mean in this context, and how was it fulfilled?**

Answer: The phrase "corrupting her" (from the Hebrew word *shâchath*) signifies Antiochus III's intent to undermine, spoil, or subvert the Ptolemaic kingdom through the marriage of his daughter, Cleopatra I, to Ptolemy V. His goal was not genuine peace but to gain influence and weaken Egypt by planting an agent within its royal family. However, the prophecy states, "she shall not stand [on his side], neither be for him." Historically, Cleopatra I eventually prioritized her loyalty to her husband and her adopted kingdom, Egypt, particularly after the death of Ptolemy V when she became regent for their young son, Ptolemy VI. She did not serve her father's imperial ambitions, thus fulfilling the prophecy of his scheme's failure. This demonstrates the futility of human plans when they oppose God's ultimate design, a theme seen throughout Daniel, particularly in visions like [Daniel 7](/daniel/7 "Daniel 7 - The Vision of the Four Beasts") where earthly kingdoms rise and fall under divine decree.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 11:17 describes a specific historical event in the ancient Near East, its underlying theological principles find their ultimate fulfillment and significance in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The verse highlights the futility of human schemes and the ultimate triumph of divine purpose, even when confronted with the most cunning and powerful worldly machinations. Antiochus III's attempt to "corrupt" a kingdom through deceitful means, only to see his plan fail, foreshadows the greater reality that no earthly power, no political maneuvering, and no human rebellion can ultimately thwart God's redemptive plan centered on His Son. Just as Cleopatra I ultimately did not stand for her father, so too all opposition to God's kingdom, whether from worldly rulers or spiritual forces, will ultimately fail to stand against the reign of Christ. Jesus, the true King of kings, established a kingdom "not of this world" ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World")), a kingdom that will never be destroyed ([Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Kingdom Will Never Be Destroyed")). His victory on the cross disarmed all principalities and powers ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")), demonstrating that the ultimate "corruption" of sin and death was overcome by His perfect sacrifice. Therefore, Daniel 11:17, in its depiction of a failed human plot against God's sovereign will, points forward to the absolute and unassailable triumph of Christ's kingdom, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess His Lordship ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow to Jesus")).

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

Ezekiel 4:3

Moreover take thou unto thee an iron pan, and set it [for] a wall of iron between thee and the city: and set thy face against it, and it shall be besieged, and thou shalt lay siege against it. This [shall be] a sign to the house of Israel.

Ezekiel 4:7

Therefore thou shalt set thy face toward the siege of Jerusalem, and thine arm [shall be] uncovered, and thou shalt prophesy against it.

2 Kings 12:17

¶ Then Hazael king of Syria went up, and fought against Gath, and took it: and Hazael set his face to go up to Jerusalem.

Proverbs 19:21

¶ [There are] many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.

Psalms 56:9

When I cry [unto thee], then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God [is] for me.

Matthew 12:30

He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.

Ezekiel 17:17

Neither shall Pharaoh with [his] mighty army and great company make for him in the war, by casting up mounts, and building forts, to cut off many persons: