Daniel 11:27

KJV

And both these kings' hearts [shall be] to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end [shall be] at the time appointed.

KJV (with Strong's)

And both {H8147} these kings {H4428}' hearts {H3824} shall be to do mischief {H4827}{H7451}, and they shall speak {H1696} lies {H3577} at one {H259} table {H7979}; but it shall not prosper {H6743}: for yet the end {H7093} shall be at the time appointed {H4150}.

Complete Jewish Bible

These two kings, bent on mischief, will sit at the same table, speaking lies to each other; but none of this will succeed; because the appointed end will not have come yet.

Berean Standard Bible

And the two kings, with their hearts bent on evil, will speak lies at the same table, but to no avail, for still the end will come at the appointed time.

American Standard Version

And as for both these kings, their hearts shall be to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table: but it shall not prosper; for yet the end shall be at the time appointed.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:27 is a pivotal verse within a detailed prophetic vision, revealing the treacherous nature of political power and the unwavering sovereignty of God. It describes a moment of deceptive diplomacy between two rival kings, historically identified as the Seleucid and Ptolemaic rulers, whose outward attempts at peace mask malicious intent and a willingness to speak lies. Despite their cunning schemes and shared table of negotiation, the prophecy declares that their plans will ultimately fail, for the divine "end" of these events is fixed and will unfold precisely at God's appointed time, irrespective of human machinations.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11 is renowned for its remarkably detailed and historically accurate prophecy concerning the conflicts between the "king of the North" (the Seleucid dynasty in Syria) and the "king of the South" (the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt). This chapter, which follows Daniel's vision of the four beasts and the ram and goat, shifts to a more direct, chronological account of geopolitical struggles that would impact God's people. Daniel 11:27 specifically falls within a section detailing the reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes (the "contemptible person" introduced in [Daniel 11:21](/daniel/11-21 "Daniel 11:21 - The Rise of the Contemptible Person")) and his interactions with the Ptolemaic king, Ptolemy VI Philometor. The preceding verses ([Daniel 11:25-26](/daniel/11-25-26 "Daniel 11:25-26 - Conflicts and Betrayal")) describe Antiochus's successful military campaign against the king of the South, leading to a period where both kings would sit at a negotiating table, seemingly for peace, but with hearts full of deceit. This verse highlights a recurring pattern in the chapter: human alliances and treaties, particularly marriage pacts, are often cloaks for ulterior motives and betrayals, serving as political tools rather than genuine instruments of peace.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Daniel 11 describes events in the Hellenistic period, following the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC and the subsequent division of his vast empire among his generals (the Diadochi). The two dominant powers that emerged, constantly vying for control over the strategically vital region of Judea, were the Seleucid Empire to the north (Syria and Mesopotamia) and the Ptolemaic Kingdom to the south (Egypt). Judea, situated between these two giants, became a frequent battleground and political pawn. The "table" mentioned in the verse likely refers to a diplomatic summit or negotiation, a common practice in ancient Near Eastern politics where treaties, alliances, and even marriage pacts (like the one between Antiochus III and Ptolemy V's daughter, or later proposed between Antiochus IV and Ptolemy VI's sister) were forged. However, these agreements were frequently broken, and trust was a rare commodity. The cultural expectation was that such negotiations would involve oaths and outward displays of amity, but the reality was often one of profound suspicion and underlying malice, reflecting the cutthroat nature of imperial power struggles.
* **Key Themes:** The verse encapsulates several profound themes central to the book of Daniel and biblical prophecy. Firstly, it underscores the pervasive **Deceit and Treachery** inherent in human power structures. The phrase "both these kings' hearts [shall be] to do mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table" vividly portrays the profound dishonesty and self-serving nature of worldly politics. Even in moments of apparent diplomacy, their true intentions are malevolent, and their words are utterly false, revealing the deep corruption of the human heart as described in [Jeremiah 17:9](/jeremiah/17-9 "Jeremiah 17:9 - The Deceitfulness of the Heart"). Secondly, it highlights the **Futility of Human Schemes** when they oppose divine will. Despite their cunning and elaborate plans, the prophecy declares, "but it shall not prosper." This emphasizes that human machinations, however shrewdly conceived or powerfully executed, are ultimately subject to a higher power and will fail if they run counter to God's ultimate purposes. Finally, and most crucially, the verse powerfully asserts **Divine Sovereignty and Appointed Time**. The concluding phrase, "for yet the end [shall be] at the time appointed," is a cornerstone of Daniel's theology. It underscores God's absolute control over history, demonstrating that regardless of the schemes of kings and nations, God's predetermined plan and timing will prevail. This concept of a divinely "appointed time" (Hebrew: _mo'ed_) is a recurring motif in biblical prophecy, affirming God's perfect timing and ultimate victory, as seen in [Habakkuk 2:3](/habakkuk/2-3 "Habakkuk 2:3 - The Vision Awaits its Appointed Time").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hearts (Hebrew, _lêbâb'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be enclosed," _lêbâb_ refers to the innermost part of a person, encompassing not only emotions but also intellect, will, and moral character. In this context, it signifies the kings' deepest intentions and motivations, revealing that their core being is set on malice and harm ("mischief"), despite any outward appearances of peace. It speaks to the depravity of their inner disposition.
* **Lies (Hebrew, _kâzâb'_):** This term denotes falsehood, untruth, or deceit. It can refer to literal untruths spoken, but also figuratively to anything that proves to be unreliable or deceptive, even an idol. Here, it underscores the deliberate and intentional nature of the kings' deception; their words are not merely inaccurate but are calculated fabrications designed to mislead and manipulate for their own gain.
* **Time appointed (Hebrew, _môwʻêd'_):** This word signifies a fixed, designated time or season, often with a religious or prophetic significance, such as a festival or an assembly convened for a specific purpose. In prophetic contexts, it emphasizes that the outcome of events is not left to chance or human will but is set by divine decree. It conveys the idea of an unalterable, predetermined moment in God's sovereign plan, reinforcing that the ultimate "end" is not subject to human interference.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And both these kings' hearts [shall be] to do mischief":** This clause reveals the internal disposition of the two rival kings. Despite any pretense of diplomacy or alliance, their innermost intentions are corrupted by a desire to inflict harm and pursue malevolent objectives. Their "hearts" (the seat of their will and motives) are set on "mischief" (evil, wickedness, harm), indicating a deep-seated, active malevolence.
* **"and they shall speak lies at one table":** This phrase vividly portrays the hypocrisy and treachery of their interactions. Sitting "at one table" implies a setting of negotiation, shared meal, or treaty-making—a context typically associated with trust and honest discourse. Yet, in this very setting, they "speak lies," demonstrating their willingness to deceive and betray each other through their words, even while feigning cooperation.
* **"but it shall not prosper":** This declarative statement serves as a divine counterpoint to the kings' malicious intentions. It asserts that their schemes, however cunningly devised or ruthlessly executed, will ultimately fail to achieve their desired long-term outcome. Their plans will not succeed in thwarting God's overarching purpose or in establishing a lasting dominion based on their deceit.
* **"for yet the end [shall be] at the time appointed":** This concluding clause provides the theological explanation for the futility of the kings' plans. It emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty over history. The "end" (the ultimate conclusion or culmination of these prophetic events) is not determined by human will or power, but by a divinely "appointed time." This signifies that God has a predetermined schedule and purpose for all events, and His plan will unfold precisely as He has ordained, regardless of human opposition.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 11:27 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, which creates a sharp contrast between the kings' malicious intent and the ultimate failure of their plans. Their "hearts... to do mischief" and their speaking of "lies" are directly countered by the declaration "but it shall not prosper," highlighting the futility of human will against divine decree. Closely related is **Irony**, as the kings sit "at one table"—a symbol of unity, peace, and shared fellowship—while simultaneously harboring deceit in their hearts and speaking falsehoods. This juxtaposition underscores the profound hypocrisy of their diplomatic endeavors. Furthermore, the entire verse, as part of Daniel 11, functions as **Prophecy**, offering a detailed pre-telling of future historical events. This prophetic mode emphasizes God's omniscience and His active involvement in human history, orchestrating events towards His predetermined "appointed time."

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 11:27 profoundly speaks to the nature of human power and divine sovereignty. It illustrates the inherent depravity of fallen humanity, where even in the pursuit of peace, the heart's true inclination is towards mischief and deceit. This prophetic insight reminds us that earthly rulers and political systems, left to their own devices, are prone to treachery and self-serving ambition, often operating under a veneer of diplomacy. However, the verse's ultimate message is one of profound comfort and assurance: despite the chaos, lies, and machinations of human history, God remains utterly sovereign. No human scheme, however cunning or powerful, can ultimately thwart His purposes or alter His divinely appointed timeline. This truth provides a steadfast anchor for faith, reminding believers that God is actively orchestrating all events, bringing them to His predetermined "end."

* [Proverbs 19:21](/proverbs/19-21 "Proverbs 19:21 - Many plans are in a person's heart, but the LORD's purpose prevails.")
* [Jeremiah 17:9](/jeremiah/17-9 "Jeremiah 17:9 - The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately sick; who can understand it?")
* [Habakkuk 2:3](/habakkuk/2-3 "Habakkuk 2:3 - For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 11:27 offers timeless wisdom for navigating a world often characterized by political intrigue and broken promises. It calls us to a sober realism about human nature, reminding us that even those in positions of power can be driven by selfish ambition and deceit, regardless of their public pronouncements. This should temper our trust in human institutions and leaders, urging us to place our ultimate hope not in political alliances or earthly security, but in the unwavering sovereignty of God. The verse encourages us to cultivate discernment, recognizing that outward appearances of peace may mask underlying malice. More importantly, it provides immense comfort: no matter how chaotic or deceptive the world seems, God remains on His throne, orchestrating all events according to His perfect timetable. Our responsibility is to live faithfully within His will, patiently awaiting the fulfillment of His purposes, knowing that His "appointed time" for justice and ultimate victory will surely come. This perspective liberates us from anxiety over human machinations, allowing us to rest in the certainty of God's control.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Daniel 11:27 challenge my tendency to place ultimate trust in human leaders or political solutions?**
* **In what areas of my life do I need to remember that God's "appointed time" will prevail, even when circumstances seem slow or chaotic?**
* **How can I cultivate discernment to recognize deceit, both in the world around me and potentially in my own heart?**
* **What practical steps can I take to live out my faith with greater confidence in God's sovereignty amidst worldly instability?**

### FAQ
**Who are "these kings" mentioned in Daniel 11:27?**

Answer: Historically, "these kings" are understood to be the rulers of the Seleucid Empire (the "king of the North") and the Ptolemaic Kingdom (the "king of the South"). Specifically, this verse is widely interpreted to refer to Antiochus IV Epiphanes of the Seleucid dynasty and Ptolemy VI Philometor of the Ptolemaic dynasty. Their interactions were marked by a series of conflicts, deceptive treaties, and betrayals, as detailed throughout [Daniel 11](/daniel/11 "Daniel 11 - The Kings of the North and South").

**What does "at one table" signify in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "at one table" refers to a setting of diplomatic negotiation, a peace treaty, or an alliance agreement. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, sharing a meal or sitting at a common table was often a symbol of fellowship, trust, and the sealing of covenants. The irony in Daniel 11:27 is that despite this outward appearance of unity and cooperation, both kings harbored malicious intentions and spoke lies, highlighting the profound hypocrisy and treachery inherent in their political dealings. It underscores that their "peace" was merely a deceptive facade.

**What is the significance of "the time appointed"?**

Answer: "The time appointed" (Hebrew: _mo'ed_) is a crucial theological concept in Daniel and throughout biblical prophecy. It signifies a fixed, predetermined moment in God's sovereign plan. It means that the ultimate outcome of human history, including the rise and fall of kingdoms and the fulfillment of prophetic events, is not left to chance or human will. Instead, it is precisely scheduled and controlled by God. This phrase assures believers that despite the chaos and deceit of human affairs, God's purposes will inevitably be accomplished according to His perfect timing, reinforcing His absolute sovereignty over all creation and history, as also seen in [Acts 1:7](/acts/1-7 "Acts 1:7 - Times and Seasons Are in God's Authority").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 11:27 describes the deceitful machinations of earthly kings, it ultimately points to the profound contrast and ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ. The "kings" of this world operate through lies and mischief, their kingdoms built on shifting sands of power and betrayal, and ultimately, their plans "shall not prosper." In stark contrast, Jesus Christ is the King whose "heart" is pure love and truth, who never spoke a lie, and whose kingdom is not of this world ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - My Kingdom is Not of This World")). He is the embodiment of truth ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")) who came to expose the lies and futility of human systems built apart from God. The declaration that "the end [shall be] at the time appointed" finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's redemptive work. His first coming was at God's perfect "fullness of time" ([Galatians 4:4](/galatians/4-4 "Galatians 4:4 - God Sent His Son at the Proper Time")), and His second coming, which will usher in the eternal kingdom, is also set for God's appointed time ([Acts 17:31](/acts/17-31 "Acts 17:31 - God Has Fixed a Day for Judgment")). Unlike the fleeting and failing schemes of earthly rulers, Christ's kingdom "shall not prosper" in the sense of worldly power, but it will eternally prosper in righteousness, peace, and justice, ultimately prevailing over all earthly kingdoms and their deceitful ways ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdoms of the World Become the Kingdoms of Our Lord")). Thus, Daniel 11:27, by highlighting the failure of human deceit, powerfully anticipates the coming of the King of Truth, whose reign is eternal and whose purposes will never be thwarted.

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

Psalms 12:2

They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: [with] flattering lips [and] with a double heart do they speak.

Jeremiah 9:3

And they bend their tongues [like] their bow [for] lies: but they are not valiant for the truth upon the earth; for they proceed from evil to evil, and they know not me, saith the LORD.

Jeremiah 9:5

And they will deceive every one his neighbour, and will not speak the truth: they have taught their tongue to speak lies, [and] weary themselves to commit iniquity.

Habakkuk 2:3

For the vision [is] yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

Daniel 11:35

And [some] of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make [them] white, [even] to the time of the end: because [it is] yet for a time appointed.

Psalms 64:6

They search out iniquities; they accomplish a diligent search: both the inward [thought] of every one [of them], and the heart, [is] deep.

Psalms 58:2

Yea, in heart ye work wickedness; ye weigh the violence of your hands in the earth.