Daniel 11:27

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.

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}.

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.

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.

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 on Daniel 11:27

Daniel 11:27 is part of a remarkably detailed prophecy concerning the ongoing conflicts and political machinations between the "king of the north" and the "king of the south." This chapter, often called the "ABC of prophecy" due to its precise historical fulfillment, outlines centuries of events involving the Seleucid and Ptolemaic dynasties following the breakup of Alexander the Great's empire.

Context

The verse specifically refers to a period when both rival kings—historically identified as leaders of the Ptolemaic dynasty (King of the South) in Egypt and the Seleucid dynasty (King of the North) in Syria—would engage in deceptive peace negotiations. The preceding verses detail various battles, alliances, and betrayals between these powerful empires. This particular verse points to a time when outward appearances of diplomacy would mask deep-seated malice and treachery, particularly during attempts at forging alliances, such as marriage treaties, which were often political tools.

Key Themes

  • Deceit and Treachery: 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 human power struggles. Even during negotiations, their true intent is malicious, and their words are false.
  • Futility of Human Schemes: Despite their cunning and elaborate plans, the prophecy declares, "but it shall not prosper." This emphasizes that human machinations, however well-conceived, are ultimately subject to a higher power and will fail if they oppose God's purposes.
  • Divine Sovereignty and Appointed Time: The concluding phrase, "for yet the end [shall be] at the time appointed," is crucial. It underscores God's absolute control over history. Regardless of the schemes of kings and nations, God's predetermined plan and timing will prevail. This concept of a divinely "appointed time" is a recurring theme in biblical prophecy, highlighting God's perfect timing and ultimate victory.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "mischief" (ra') can mean evil, wickedness, or harm, indicating a deep-seated malevolent intent. The term "time appointed" (Hebrew: mo'ed) refers to a fixed, designated time or season, often with a religious or prophetic significance. It signifies that the outcome is not left to chance or human will but is set by divine decree, reinforcing the theme of God's sovereignty over all events.

Practical Application

Daniel 11:27 offers timeless insights for believers today. It reminds us that human governments and leaders, even when outwardly pursuing peace, can be driven by selfish motives and deceit. It encourages us not to place our ultimate trust in political alliances or human promises, but rather in the unwavering sovereignty of God. Just as the ancient kings' plans did not prosper against God's appointed time, so too will all human schemes eventually yield to God's ultimate will. This verse provides comfort that even amidst global turmoil and political maneuvering, God remains on His throne, orchestrating events according to His perfect timetable and ensuring that His purposes will ultimately be fulfilled, bringing to pass the promise of His kingdom.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 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.

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