Daniel 11:25

KJV

And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south with a great army; and the king of the south shall be stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand: for they shall forecast devices against him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he shall stir up {H5782} his power {H3581} and his courage {H3824} against the king {H4428} of the south {H5045} with a great {H1419} army {H2428}; and the king {H4428} of the south {H5045} shall be stirred up {H1624} to battle {H4421} with a very {H3966} great {H1419} and mighty {H6099} army {H2428}; but he shall not stand {H5975}: for they shall forecast {H2803} devices {H4284} against him.

Complete Jewish Bible

"He will summon his power and courage against the king of the south with a great army, and the king of the south will fight back with a very large and powerful army; but he will not succeed, because of plots devised against him.

Berean Standard Bible

And with a large army he will stir up his power and his courage against the king of the South, who will mobilize a very large and powerful army but will not withstand the plots devised against him.

American Standard Version

And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south with a great army; and the king of the south shall war in battle with an exceeding great and mighty army; but he shall not stand; for they shall devise devices against him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:25 provides a remarkably precise prophetic glimpse into a pivotal military confrontation between the "King of the North" (Antiochus IV Epiphanes) and the "King of the South" (Ptolemy VI Philometor). It details the immense armies mustered by both sides for battle, yet foretells the King of the South's decisive defeat, not merely by superior force, but through cunning strategies and treacherous schemes devised against him. This verse underscores God's meticulous foreknowledge and sovereign control over the rise and fall of empires, even amidst the most intricate geopolitical conflicts of human history.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11 stands as one of the most detailed and specific predictive prophecies in the entire Bible, offering an unparalleled "history written in advance." It meticulously outlines the geopolitical struggles between the Hellenistic kingdoms that emerged from Alexander the Great's fragmented empire, specifically the Seleucid Empire (the "King of the North") and the Ptolemaic Dynasty (the "King of the South"). These two powers constantly vied for control over Coele-Syria, the land of Israel, which lay strategically between them. Verse 25 follows a series of intricate prophecies detailing the reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, introduced as "a vile person" in [Daniel 11:21](/daniel/11-21 "Daniel 11:21 - The Rise of Antiochus IV Epiphanes"), and describes a significant military campaign during his reign, further elaborating on his aggressive expansionist policies and the challenges he posed to the region.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy of Daniel 11:25 finds its historical fulfillment in the second invasion of Egypt by Antiochus IV Epiphanes, which occurred around 169 BCE. Antiochus, the Seleucid king, launched a major offensive against Ptolemy VI Philometor, the young Ptolemaic ruler of Egypt. The ancient Near East during the Hellenistic period was characterized by constant warfare, shifting alliances, and political intrigue, as successor kingdoms sought to expand their influence and secure vital trade routes. The phrase "forecast devices" is particularly resonant with the political climate of the era, where diplomacy often masked treachery, and cunning strategies, including internal subversion and feigned peace treaties, were as potent as direct military might. This cultural backdrop of strategic deception and ruthless power plays is essential for understanding the nuances of the prophecy.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, within the broader scope of [Daniel 11](/daniel/11 "Daniel 11 - The Kings of the North and South"), powerfully articulates several core themes. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Foreknowledge**, demonstrating God's absolute control over human history, detailing specific events centuries before they transpired. This precision affirms that no human ambition or military might can thwart God's ultimate plan, as seen in [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms"). Secondly, the passage emphasizes **Intense Conflict and Warfare**, portraying the brutal realities of ancient geopolitical struggles and the immense scale of armies involved. Thirdly, the mention of "devices" underscores the theme of **Strategic Deception and Treachery**, revealing that evil often operates through cunning and manipulation, not just overt force, a theme echoed in biblical warnings to be discerning, as found in [Ephesians 6:11](/ephesians/6-11 "Ephesians 6:11 - Standing Against the Wiles of the Devil").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **stir up (Hebrew, _gârâh'_):** This primitive root primarily means "to grate" or "to anger," but figuratively extends to "contend," "meddle," or "stir up." In this context, it vividly describes the aggressive provocation and instigation of conflict by both the King of the North and the King of the South. It conveys a sense of rousing oneself or others to action, indicating a deliberate and forceful initiation of hostilities.
* **army (Hebrew, _chayil'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be firm," _chayil_ refers to a "force," encompassing men, means, or other resources. It can denote an army, wealth, virtue, valor, or strength. Here, it emphasizes the substantial military might and resources each king brought to bear, highlighting the formidable nature of the forces involved in this epic clash. The repetition underscores the massive scale of the confrontation.
* **forecast devices (Hebrew, _châshab machashâbâh'_):** The verb _châshab_ means "to plait or interpenetrate," leading to senses of "to weave," "to fabricate," "to plot," or "to contrive," often with malicious intent. The noun _machashâbâh_ refers to a "contrivance," "intention," "plan," or "plot" (whether good or bad). Together, "forecast devices" signifies the deliberate, intricate, and often insidious schemes or plans concocted against the King of the South. This implies that his defeat was not solely due to a direct military disadvantage but also to shrewd, possibly treacherous, strategies employed by his opponents or even internal betrayals.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south with a great army;":** This clause describes the aggressive initiative of the King of the North (Antiochus IV Epiphanes). He will muster his full might and resolve, assembling a formidable military force, to launch an offensive against the King of the South (Ptolemy VI Philometor). The phrase "stir up his power and his courage" highlights his determination and the significant resources he commits to this campaign.
* **"and the king of the south shall be stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army;":** This indicates the King of the South's response. He will not passively await attack but will also rouse himself and his forces, gathering an exceptionally large and powerful army to meet the King of the North in battle. The double emphasis ("very great and mighty") underscores the immense scale of the Ptolemaic forces, setting the stage for a seemingly evenly matched, colossal confrontation.
* **"but he shall not stand:":** Despite mustering a "very great and mighty army," the King of the South will be decisively defeated. This phrase signals the inevitable outcome, revealing that his strength will prove insufficient to withstand the onslaught. It is a concise declaration of his impending downfall, emphasizing the prophetic certainty of the event.
* **"for they shall forecast devices against him.":** This crucial explanatory clause reveals the reason for the King of the South's failure. His defeat will not be solely due to a direct military rout but will be orchestrated through cunning plans, strategic deceptions, or internal treachery. The plural "they" suggests that these schemes might involve not only the King of the North but potentially conspirators within the King of the South's own ranks or a broader network of adversaries. This highlights the insidious nature of the conflict and the sophisticated level of political maneuvering involved.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 11:25 employs several literary devices to convey its prophetic message. **Antithesis** is evident in the direct confrontation between the "King of the North" and the "King of the South," setting up a clear opposition that drives the narrative. The description of both sides mustering "great" and "very great and mighty" armies utilizes a form of **Hyperbole** or **Amplification** to emphasize the immense scale and intensity of the impending conflict, creating a sense of epic struggle. The phrase "but he shall not stand" serves as a stark **Foreshadowing** of the King of the South's defeat, building narrative tension before the reason for his failure is revealed. Finally, the concluding clause, "for they shall forecast devices against him," introduces an element of **Irony** and **Dramatic Unveiling**. Despite the King of the South's "very great and mighty army," his downfall is attributed not to a lack of strength, but to the cunning and deceptive "devices" of his adversaries, revealing a deeper, more insidious layer to the conflict than mere military might.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 11:25 profoundly illustrates God's meticulous sovereignty over human history, even amidst the most chaotic and complex geopolitical struggles. The detailed foretelling of specific military campaigns, the immense forces involved, and the precise manner of defeat (through "devices") demonstrates that no human power, no matter how great or cunning, operates outside the purview of God's divine plan. This passage reinforces the biblical truth that God "removes kings and sets up kings" ([Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms")), orchestrating events to fulfill His ultimate purposes. It serves as a powerful reminder that even when evil seems to triumph through deception and force, God remains in control, working all things according to the counsel of His will, ultimately for the good of His people and the advancement of His kingdom.

* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord Frustrates the Plans of the Nations")
* [Proverbs 21:30](/proverbs/21-30 "Proverbs 21:30 - No Wisdom Against the Lord")
* [Isaiah 46:9-10](/isaiah/46-9-10 "Isaiah 46:9-10 - God Declares the End from the Beginning")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed prophecy of Daniel 11:25, while describing ancient conflicts, offers timeless spiritual truths for contemporary believers. It provides profound assurance that God's sovereign hand guides all of history, from the grand movements of empires to the intricate details of human machinations. In a world often characterized by political instability, global conflicts, and the pervasive presence of deception, this passage reminds us that our ultimate trust must rest not in human leaders, military might, or cunning strategies, but in the God who "forecasts devices" and whose plans can never be thwarted. It calls us to discern the "devices" (schemes) of evil in our own lives and in the world, recognizing that spiritual warfare often involves subtle manipulation as much as overt opposition. By understanding God's control over even the most complex historical events, we are encouraged to live with confidence, peace, and a steadfast faith, knowing that His purposes will ultimately prevail, and that He works all things for the good of those who love Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed nature of this prophecy strengthen your faith in God's foreknowledge and sovereignty over current global events?**
* **In what ways might the "devices" mentioned in this verse relate to the forms of deception or manipulation we encounter in our personal lives or in society today?**
* **How can knowing that God is in control, even amidst intense conflict and treachery, impact your sense of peace and trust in Him?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate discernment against spiritual "devices" in your own life and community?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "King of the North" and "King of the South" specifically in Daniel 11:25?**

Answer: In Daniel 11:25, the "King of the North" is widely identified by scholars as Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Seleucid king who reigned from 175-164 BCE. He was known for his aggressive military campaigns and his infamous persecution of the Jewish people. The "King of the South" refers to Ptolemy VI Philometor, the young ruler of the Ptolemaic Dynasty in Egypt during that same period. This verse specifically describes Antiochus IV's second invasion of Egypt, which occurred around 169 BCE, where he launched a powerful offensive against Ptolemy VI. The historical accuracy of these identifications underscores the remarkable precision of Daniel's prophecy, detailing events centuries before they unfolded.

**What is the significance of the King of the South not standing because "they shall forecast devices against him"?**

Answer: The phrase "they shall forecast devices against him" is highly significant because it indicates that the King of the South's defeat was not simply a matter of being outmatched in open battle, but was due to cunning strategies, deceptive plots, or even internal betrayals. Historically, Antiochus IV was known for his shrewd and often treacherous tactics. For instance, after his initial victory, he feigned friendship with Ptolemy VI, offering terms that seemed favorable but were designed to subtly gain control of Egypt. This clause highlights that strength alone is not enough against calculated malice and manipulation. The "devices" could refer to Antiochus's clever military maneuvers, his political intrigues, or even the subversion of Ptolemy's own advisors or generals. This prophetic detail emphasizes the insidious nature of the conflict and God's foreknowledge of even the most intricate human schemes, reminding us that evil often operates through subtle means, as warned in [Ephesians 6:11](/ephesians/6-11 "Ephesians 6:11 - Standing Against the Wiles of the Devil").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 11:25 details ancient geopolitical conflicts, its underlying themes find their ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The prophecy reveals God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and schemes, demonstrating that no human "devices" or "great armies" can thwart His divine plan. This truth culminates in Christ, who is the true King, exercising all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). Just as the King of the South "shall not stand" against the preordained "devices," so too all the forces of darkness, the "principalities and powers" ([Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Spiritual Warfare")), and the "devices" of the devil ([2 Corinthians 2:11](/2_corinthians/2-11 "2 Corinthians 2:11 - Satan's Devices")) ultimately cannot stand against Christ. His crucifixion, seemingly a defeat, was in fact the ultimate "device" of God, through which He disarmed and triumphed over all opposing powers ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). The King of the North's temporary triumph foreshadows the brief reign of evil in the world, but the ultimate victory belongs to the Lamb of God, who will one day return to establish His eternal kingdom, against which no army or device can ever prevail ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord"), [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - The Rider on the White Horse")).

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

Proverbs 28:25

¶ He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat.

Proverbs 15:18

¶ A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but [he that is] slow to anger appeaseth strife.

Daniel 11:2

And now will I shew thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than [they] all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of Grecia.

Daniel 11:10

But his sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of great forces: and [one] shall certainly come, and overflow, and pass through: then shall he return, and be stirred up, [even] to his fortress.