Daniel 11:21

KJV

¶ And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries.

KJV (with Strong's)

And in his estate {H3653} shall stand up {H5975} a vile person {H959}, to whom they shall not give {H5414} the honour {H1935} of the kingdom {H4438}: but he shall come {H935} in peaceably {H7962}, and obtain {H2388} the kingdom {H4438} by flatteries {H2519}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"There will arise in his place a despicable man not entitled to inherit the majesty of the kingdom, but he will come without warning and gain the kingdom by intrigue.

Berean Standard Bible

In his place a despicable person will arise; royal honors will not be given to him, but he will come in a time of peace and seize the kingdom by intrigue.

American Standard Version

And in his place shall stand up a contemptible person, to whom they had not given the honor of the kingdom: but he shall come in time of security, and shall obtain the kingdom by flatteries.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:21 introduces a particularly contemptible figure who will rise to power not through legitimate succession or military might, but through cunning deception and manipulative flattery. This verse marks a pivotal point in Daniel's detailed prophecy, shifting focus to a ruler whose insidious methods and vile character stand in stark contrast to honorable kingship, foreshadowing a period of intense trial for God's people under his deceptive reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11:21 is situated within one of the Bible's most detailed prophetic passages, beginning in [Daniel 10:1](/daniel/10-1 "Daniel 10 - Daniel's Vision and the Angel's Message"), where Daniel receives a profound revelation concerning the future. The preceding verses in [Daniel 11:1-20](/daniel/11-1-20 "Daniel 11:1-20 - Kings of the North and South") meticulously describe the rise and fall of Persian kings, the advent of Alexander the Great, and the subsequent conflicts between the Ptolemaic (King of the South) and Seleucid (King of the North) dynasties. This intricate historical panorama sets the stage for the emergence of the "vile person" in [Daniel 11:21](/daniel/11-21 "Daniel 11:21 - The Rise of the Vile Person"), indicating a significant shift in the narrative's focus to a particularly malevolent ruler who will profoundly impact God's covenant people. The detailed nature of these prophecies underscores divine foreknowledge and sovereignty over human history.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Daniel 11, particularly from [Daniel 11:21](/daniel/11-21 "Daniel 11:21 - The Rise of Antiochus IV Epiphanes"), is widely understood by scholars to refer to Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king who reigned from 175 to 164 BC. In the Hellenistic world, succession to the throne was typically determined by birthright or military conquest. However, Antiochus IV, whose nephew Demetrius was the rightful heir, seized power through political intrigue and opportunism while Demetrius was held hostage in Rome. His reign was marked by erratic behavior, extreme impiety, and a deep contempt for Jewish customs and their God, leading to his infamous persecution of the Jews and the desecration of the Temple in Jerusalem. Culturally, his actions were a profound affront to the religious sensitivities of the time, and his self-proclaimed title "Epiphanes" (manifest god) was often mocked by his subjects who called him "Epimanes" (madman).
* **Key Themes:** The introduction of the "vile person" in [Daniel 11:21](/daniel/11-21 "Daniel 11:21 - Themes of Deception and Usurpation") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Daniel. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's meticulous foreknowledge and control over all earthly kingdoms, even those ruled by corrupt and deceptive individuals. The detailed nature of the prophecy affirms that no human power can thwart God's ultimate plan. Secondly, the verse emphasizes the theme of **Deception and Usurpation**, illustrating how power can be gained not only through legitimate means or military strength, but also through cunning, manipulation, and smooth, deceitful words. This contrasts sharply with the righteous rule expected of true kings. Finally, it underscores the **Nature of Evil Leadership**, portraying a ruler whose character is fundamentally base and contemptible, lacking true honor and relying on insidious methods rather than merit or rightful claim. This figure serves as a prototype for future oppressive powers, especially the "little horn" of [Daniel 8:9-12](/daniel/8-9-12 "Daniel 8:9-12 - The Little Horn's Actions") and ultimately the Antichrist.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **vile person (Hebrew, _bâzâh'_):** From H959, meaning "to disesteem; despise, disdain, contemn(-ptible), think to scorn." This word profoundly describes the character of the individual. He is not merely "bad" but "despised" or "contemptible" in the eyes of others, and perhaps even in his own actions, demonstrating a lack of moral worth or dignity. This highlights his ignoble nature and the ignominy associated with his rise to power.
* **honour (Hebrew, _hôwd'_):** From H1935, meaning "grandeur (i.e. an imposing form and appearance); beauty, comeliness, excellency, glorious, glory, goodly, honour, majesty." This term refers to the inherent dignity, majesty, and respect due to a legitimate ruler. The statement "to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom" signifies that this person lacks the rightful claim or the moral character that would naturally command the respect and allegiance of the people. His reign is therefore illegitimate and devoid of true glory.
* **flatteries (Hebrew, _chălaqlaqqâh'_):** From H2519, meaning "properly, something very smooth; i.e. a treacherous spot; figuratively, blandishment; flattery, slippery." This word vividly describes the deceptive means by which the "vile person" obtains the kingdom. It refers to smooth, persuasive, and insincere words designed to manipulate others, gain favor, or create a false sense of security. The term implies a treacherous and slippery path to power, built on deceit rather than genuine merit or popular acclaim.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And in his estate shall stand up a vile person":** This phrase indicates a successor to the previous king mentioned in [Daniel 11:20](/daniel/11-20 "Daniel 11:20 - The Tax Collector King"), but one who is fundamentally different in character. The Hebrew term for "vile person" (H959, _bâzâh_) emphasizes his contemptible nature, signifying that he is despised or scorned. He is not a noble or honorable figure, but one of low moral standing who will rise to prominence from the established "estate" or position of power.
* **"to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom":** This clause highlights the illegitimacy of his claim to the throne. Unlike a rightful heir or a conquering hero, he does not receive the kingdom through popular acclamation, inheritance, or a clear mandate. The "honour" (H1935, _hôwd_) of the kingdom, representing its inherent dignity and legitimate authority, is withheld from him because he is not considered worthy or the rightful recipient.
* **"but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries":** This final clause reveals the insidious method of his ascent. Instead of open warfare or a direct challenge, he will enter the scene "peaceably" (H7962, _shalvâh_), implying a non-confrontational or even deceptive approach. He will "obtain" (H2388, _châzaq_, meaning to seize, fasten upon, or hold fast) the kingdom through "flatteries" (H2519, _chălaqlaqqâh_), which are smooth, deceptive words and manipulative promises. This signifies a cunning and treacherous acquisition of power, relying on guile rather than strength or right.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 11:21 employs several significant literary devices to convey its message. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as the description of the "vile person" and his deceptive rise to power serves as a clear historical foreshadowing of Antiochus IV Epiphanes. Beyond this immediate fulfillment, Antiochus himself acts as a **type** or **symbol** for a future, ultimate oppressive ruler—the Antichrist—who is also prophesied to gain power through cunning and deceit rather than overt force, as seen in [2 Thessalonians 2:9-10](/2_thessalonians/2-9-10 "2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 - The Lawless One's Deception"). The phrase "vile person" also functions as a powerful **epithet**, immediately branding the character with a negative moral judgment before any actions are described, setting the tone for his subsequent deeds. Furthermore, there is an element of **irony** in his "peaceable" entry, as this apparent tranquility masks a deeper, more insidious form of aggression and usurpation, achieved through the "flatteries" that are anything but peaceful in their manipulative intent.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 11:21 powerfully illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over human history, even in the rise of seemingly insignificant or contemptible rulers. The meticulous detail of the prophecy underscores that no human machination, however cunning or deceptive, lies outside the scope of God's foreknowledge and ultimate control. This verse highlights the recurring biblical theme of illegitimate power gained through deceit, contrasting it with God's righteous rule and the just means by which true authority should be exercised. It also serves as a stark warning against the allure of smooth words and manipulative promises, urging discernment in evaluating leadership, particularly when it lacks genuine honor or a rightful claim. The "vile person" embodies a form of evil that operates not through brute force alone, but through subtle corruption and insidious influence, ultimately bringing great suffering to God's people.

* [Daniel 8:23-25](/daniel/8-23-25 "Daniel 8:23-25 - The King of Fierce Countenance")
* [2 Thessalonians 2:3-10](/2_thessalonians/2-3-10 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-10 - The Man of Lawlessness")
* [Revelation 13:5-7](/revelation/13-5-7 "Revelation 13:5-7 - The Beast's Authority")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 11:21 offers profound insights for believers today, particularly in discerning the nature of leadership and the spiritual battles we face. The rise of a "vile person" through "flatteries" serves as a timeless warning to be vigilant against those who seek power through deceptive means, rather than through integrity and service. It calls us to cultivate spiritual discernment, recognizing that not all who promise peace or prosperity are benevolent, and that true honor is not found in usurped authority. In a world often swayed by charismatic rhetoric and manipulative promises, this verse encourages us to anchor our hope and trust in God's unchanging sovereignty, knowing that even the most insidious human schemes are ultimately subject to His divine plan. It reminds us that our true security lies not in political stability or human leaders, but in the steadfastness of God's kingdom, which cannot be shaken.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the description of the "vile person" challenge our assumptions about how power is gained and maintained in the world today?**
* **In what ways might "flatteries" or deceptive words influence public opinion or personal decisions in our current cultural climate?**
* **What does Daniel 11:21 teach us about God's sovereignty, even when seemingly evil or illegitimate leaders rise to power?**
* **How can believers cultivate greater discernment to recognize and resist manipulative influences in society and in their personal lives?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "vile person" in Daniel 11:21, and why is this figure significant?**

Answer: The "vile person" in [Daniel 11:21](/daniel/11-21 "Daniel 11:21 - The Vile Person Identified") is widely identified by biblical scholars and historians as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king who reigned from 175 to 164 BC. He is significant because historical records precisely align with the prophecy's details: he was not the rightful heir but seized power through political maneuvering and "flatteries" rather than legitimate succession or military conquest. His reign was marked by extreme cruelty and impiety, culminating in his brutal persecution of the Jewish people and the desecration of the Temple in Jerusalem, an event often referred to as the "abomination of desolation" (cf. [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel 9:27 - The Abomination of Desolation") and [Daniel 11:31](/daniel/11-31 "Daniel 11:31 - The Desecration of the Temple")). Beyond his historical fulfillment, Antiochus IV is also seen as a "type" or foreshadowing of a future end-times figure, often identified as the Antichrist, who will similarly rise to power through deception and bring great tribulation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 11:21 describes a figure who gains power through deception and lacks true honor, it profoundly foreshadows the stark contrast of Christ's kingdom and His ultimate triumph. The "vile person" represents the insidious nature of worldly power, often acquired through cunning and manipulative "flatteries," leading to oppression and desecration. In contrast, Jesus Christ, the true King, did not come in peaceably through flattery but through humility and truth, [emptying himself](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation") and taking the form of a servant. He was indeed "despised and rejected by men" ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - Christ's Rejection")), yet He is the rightful heir of all things, to whom all "honor and glory and power" truly belong ([Revelation 5:13](/revelation/5-13 "Revelation 5:13 - Worthy is the Lamb")). Unlike the earthly king who usurps authority, Christ's kingdom is "not of this world" ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")), established not by human trickery but by divine sacrifice and resurrection. The "vile person" ultimately fails and is brought to ruin, but Christ's kingdom is eternal, and He will reign in perfect righteousness, having conquered all deceptive powers and establishing a dominion that will never pass away ([Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - The Son of Man's Everlasting Dominion")). Thus, Daniel 11:21, by depicting the antithesis of true kingship, magnifies the unparalleled honor, truth, and eternal reign of Jesus Christ.

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

Daniel 11:34

Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries.

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.

Judges 9:1

¶ And Abimelech the son of Jerubbaal went to Shechem unto his mother's brethren, and communed with them, and with all the family of the house of his mother's father, saying,

Judges 9:20

But if not, let fire come out from Abimelech, and devour the men of Shechem, and the house of Millo; and let fire come out from the men of Shechem, and from the house of Millo, and devour Abimelech.

Psalms 55:21

[The words] of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war [was] in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet [were] they drawn swords.

Daniel 8:9

And out of one of them came forth a little horn, which waxed exceeding great, toward the south, and toward the east, and toward the pleasant [land].

Isaiah 32:5

The vile person shall be no more called liberal, nor the churl said [to be] bountiful.