Daniel 11:30

KJV

For the ships of Chittim shall come against him: therefore he shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant.

KJV (with Strong's)

For the ships {H6716} of Chittim {H3794} shall come {H935} against him: therefore he shall be grieved {H3512}, and return {H7725}, and have indignation {H2194} against the holy {H6944} covenant {H1285}: so shall he do {H6213}; he shall even return {H7725}, and have intelligence {H995} with them that forsake {H5800} the holy {H6944} covenant {H1285}.

Complete Jewish Bible

because ships from Kittim will come against him, so that his courage will fail him. Then, in retreat, he will take furious action against the holy covenant, again showing favor to those who abandon the holy covenant.

Berean Standard Bible

Ships of Kittim will come against him, and he will lose heart. Then he will turn back and rage against the holy covenant and do damage. So he will return and show favor to those who forsake the holy covenant.

American Standard Version

For ships of Kittim shall come against him; therefore he shall be grieved, and shall return, and have indignation against the holy covenant, and shall do his pleasure: he shall even return, and have regard unto them that forsake the holy covenant.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:30 precisely forecasts a pivotal moment in the reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, depicting his humiliation by a Western power and his subsequent redirection of wrath. Frustrated by a thwarted Egyptian campaign, the Seleucid king returns home, unleashing his fury upon the Jewish people and their sacred covenant with God. This verse also highlights the tragic reality of internal betrayal, as Antiochus finds willing collaborators among those who have abandoned their allegiance to the divine covenant, setting the stage for severe persecution and the desecration of the Temple.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11 is a remarkable prophecy, offering an unparalleled level of detail concerning historical events from the Persian Empire through the Hellenistic period, specifically focusing on the conflicts between the Ptolemaic (King of the South) and Seleucid (King of the North) dynasties. Verse 30 is situated within the latter part of this chapter, which describes the actions of Antiochus IV Epiphanes. Immediately preceding this verse, the prophecy details Antiochus's second failed attempt to conquer Egypt (Daniel 11:29). His initial success is abruptly curtailed by the intervention described in verse 30, leading directly into his infamous persecution of the Jewish people and the desecration of the Jerusalem Temple, often referred to as the "abomination of desolation" (Daniel 11:31). Thus, Daniel 11:30 serves as the critical turning point, explaining the catalyst for Antiochus's extreme actions against Jerusalem.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described in Daniel 11:30 are widely understood to refer to 168 BC. Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Seleucid king (King of the North), had launched a second invasion of Egypt. His campaign was brought to an abrupt and humiliating halt by the Roman Republic. The "ships of Chittim" are historically identified as the Roman fleet, led by the Roman legate Gaius Popilius Laenas. Laenas famously confronted Antiochus, drawing a circle around him in the sand and demanding an immediate withdrawal from Egypt before Antiochus stepped outside the circle. This public humiliation deeply "grieved" and enraged Antiochus. Unable to vent his fury on Rome, he redirected his aggression towards Jerusalem, which was part of his empire but whose Jewish inhabitants steadfastly adhered to their unique "holy covenant" with God, resisting Hellenistic assimilation. This period also saw significant internal divisions within Judaism, with many Hellenizing Jews embracing Greek culture and collaborating with Antiochus, making the persecution even more devastating.

* **Key Themes:** Daniel 11:30 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Daniel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it powerfully underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Prophetic Accuracy**. The precise foretelling of Antiochus's actions, his humiliation by Rome, and his subsequent rage against the covenant people demonstrates God's absolute control over human history, even over the most powerful earthly rulers, fulfilling His declared purposes as seen in [Isaiah 46:10](/isaiah/46-10 "Isaiah 46:10 - God Declares the End from the Beginning"). Secondly, the verse highlights the persistent theme of **Persecution of God's People**. Antiochus's "indignation against the holy covenant" foreshadows the ongoing spiritual conflict between the forces of evil and those who remain faithful to God, a theme echoed in the New Testament concerning the opposition believers face for their allegiance to Christ, as Jesus Himself warned in [John 15:19](/john/15-19 "John 15:19 - The World Hates Believers"). Finally, the mention of "them that forsake the holy covenant" introduces the critical theme of **The Danger of Apostasy and Internal Compromise**. This internal betrayal by those within the covenant community, who align with the persecutor, represents a profound spiritual warning against abandoning one's faith for worldly acceptance or gain, a danger that continues to challenge believers in every age.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Chittim (Hebrew, _Kittîy_):** This term, originally referring to the island of Cyprus, evolved in Hebrew usage to denote lands across the Mediterranean, particularly the Western powers. In this context, it clearly signifies Rome, whose intervention brought about Antiochus's humiliation. Its use here is crucial for identifying the historical agent of Antiochus's downfall.
* **grieved (Hebrew, _kâʼâh_):** Derived from a root meaning "to despond" or "to deject," this word describes Antiochus's emotional state after his encounter with the Roman fleet. It conveys a deep sense of frustration, humiliation, and inner turmoil, which then fuels his subsequent rage and violent actions.
* **indignation (Hebrew, _zâʻam_):** This powerful word describes Antiochus's intense anger, akin to "foaming at the mouth." It denotes a furious, righteous-like wrath, but in this context, it is directed unrighteously against God's people and their sacred covenant. This "indignation" is the driving force behind his subsequent persecution.
* **forsake (Hebrew, _ʻâzab_):** This verb means "to loosen," "relinquish," or "abandon." Here, it describes the actions of those within the Jewish community who willingly abandoned their covenant obligations and traditional faith, aligning themselves with Antiochus. This highlights the internal treachery that compounded the external persecution.
* **intelligence (Hebrew, _bîyn_):** While often meaning "to understand" or "discern," in this context, _bîyn_ implies forming a malicious understanding, a pact, or an alliance. Antiochus forms a strategic "intelligence" or agreement with apostate Jews, leveraging their defection for his own oppressive agenda against the faithful.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the ships of Chittim shall come against him:"** This clause introduces the external force that thwarts Antiochus's plans. "Ships of Chittim" specifically refers to the Roman fleet, which intervened in his Egyptian campaign. Their arrival signifies a superior power that Antiochus cannot overcome, leading to his forced withdrawal.
* **"therefore he shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant:"** This phrase describes Antiochus's immediate reaction and subsequent action. His humiliation by Rome causes him to be "grieved" (deeply frustrated and dejected). This grievance then transforms into intense "indignation" or rage, which he redirects upon his return. Crucially, this wrath is aimed not at Rome, but at "the holy covenant"—the unique relationship and laws God established with Israel, symbolizing their distinct identity and faithfulness.
* **"so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant."** This final clause reiterates Antiochus's return and reveals a sinister aspect of his campaign: he will not only persecute the faithful but will also actively collaborate with apostate Jews. "Have intelligence with" implies forming a pact or understanding with those who have abandoned their allegiance to God's covenant, using them as instruments to further his oppressive agenda against their own people. This highlights the internal division and betrayal that characterized this period.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 11:30 is rich in **Prophecy**, offering a remarkably precise foretelling of historical events centuries before their occurrence, underscoring the divine authorship of the text. The phrase "ships of Chittim" functions as **Symbolism**, representing not merely vessels but the formidable, decisive power of Rome, which acts as an unexpected check on Antiochus's ambition. There is a strong element of **Cause and Effect** in the verse: Antiochus's humiliation by the "ships of Chittim" directly causes his grief and subsequent "indignation against the holy covenant." The verse also employs **Contrast** by juxtaposing external opposition (Rome) with internal betrayal ("them that forsake the holy covenant"), highlighting the dual nature of the challenges faced by God's people. Furthermore, Antiochus's actions, particularly his "indignation against the holy covenant" and alliance with apostates, serve as **Foreshadowing** for the ultimate "man of lawlessness" (the Antichrist) who will similarly oppose God and His people in the end times.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 11:30 profoundly illustrates the ongoing spiritual warfare between the kingdom of God and the forces of evil. It reveals that God's people often face opposition not only from external, hostile powers but also from internal compromise and apostasy. Antiochus's rage against the "holy covenant" is a manifestation of the world's inherent animosity towards divine truth and faithfulness. Yet, even in the face of such intense persecution and betrayal, the detailed nature of this prophecy affirms God's ultimate sovereignty over all human affairs, demonstrating that even the wrath of man serves His purposes. The suffering endured by the faithful during this period underscores the call to unwavering allegiance to God's covenant, even when it demands significant personal cost and when seemingly abandoned by others.

* [Isaiah 46:10](/isaiah/46-10 "Isaiah 46:10 - God Declares the End from the Beginning")
* [John 15:19](/john/15-19 "John 15:19 - The World Hates Believers")
* [Hebrews 10:39](/hebrews/10-39 "Hebrews 10:39 - Do Not Shrink Back Unto Perdition")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 11:30 serves as a timeless mirror for believers, prompting us to examine our own responses to adversity and the subtle dangers of compromise. Just as Antiochus, thwarted externally, turned his fury inward on the covenant people, so too can the pressures of the world, when resisted, manifest as intensified attacks on faith and community. This verse challenges us to consider where our true allegiance lies, especially when faced with the allure of worldly acceptance or the threat of persecution. The "ships of Chittim" may come in many forms today—cultural pressures, ideological conflicts, or even personal setbacks—that can cause "grief" and potentially redirect our frustrations. The warning against "them that forsake the holy covenant" is particularly poignant, urging us to guard against spiritual apathy, intellectual compromise, or social expediency that might lead us to abandon our commitment to Christ and His church. Our call is to stand firm in the truth of God's Word, to uphold the "holy covenant" of the New Testament through Christ's blood, and to resist both overt opposition and insidious internal compromise, knowing that our faithfulness is unto salvation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do "ships of Chittim" (external pressures or disappointments) cause "grief" in my life, and how do I typically respond to that frustration?**
* **What forms does "indignation against the holy covenant" take in the world today, and how am I called to stand against it?**
* **How might I, or those within my Christian community, be tempted to "forsake the holy covenant" for worldly gain or acceptance?**
* **What practical steps can I take to strengthen my resolve and "have intelligence" with those who remain faithful, rather than those who compromise?**

### FAQ

**Who is "him" in Daniel 11:30?**

Answer: "Him" refers to Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Seleucid king (also known as the "King of the North" in Daniel 11), who reigned from 175-164 BC. This verse describes a pivotal moment in his reign, specifically his failed second campaign against Egypt in 168 BC.

**What are the "ships of Chittim"?**

Answer: The "ships of Chittim" refer to the Roman fleet. "Chittim" (or Kittim) was a term that originally designated Cyprus but evolved in Hebrew usage to broadly refer to lands and peoples across the Mediterranean, particularly Western powers. In this historical context, it specifically denotes the Roman naval force led by Popilius Laenas, whose intervention humiliated Antiochus and forced his withdrawal from Egypt. This event is a well-documented historical fact that aligns perfectly with the prophecy.

**What is "the holy covenant" that Antiochus has indignation against?**

Answer: "The holy covenant" refers to God's covenant with Israel, particularly the Mosaic Law and the unique relationship and practices that defined the Jewish people's identity and allegiance to Yahweh. Antiochus's "indignation" was directed at their unwavering adherence to this covenant, which stood in stark contrast to his Hellenistic agenda and his desire for cultural and religious uniformity within his empire. His subsequent actions, including the desecration of the Temple, were direct attacks on the very symbols and practices of this covenant, as mentioned in [Daniel 11:31](/daniel/11-31 "Daniel 11:31 - The Abomination of Desolation").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 11:30, while historically fulfilled in Antiochus IV Epiphanes, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate spiritual conflict and the person of the Antichrist, against whom Christ stands as the true and victorious King. Antiochus's "indignation against the holy covenant" and his alliance with those who "forsake" it typify the spirit of antichrist, which seeks to nullify God's redemptive plan and corrupt His people. The "holy covenant" finds its ultimate fulfillment not in the Mosaic Law alone, but in the [new covenant established by Jesus Christ](/hebrews/9-15 "Hebrews 9:15 - Christ, Mediator of the New Covenant") through His sacrificial blood. Just as Antiochus persecuted the faithful, Christ Himself experienced ultimate rejection from "His own" who did not receive Him ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own")) and endured the wrath of those who opposed God's will. The Antichrist, like Antiochus, will make war on the saints ([Revelation 13:7](/revelation/13-7 "Revelation 13:7 - The Beast Makes War on the Saints")) and seek to break the new covenant, but his defeat is certain. Ultimately, Daniel 11:30 points to the unwavering faithfulness of God's true covenant people, those who are "in Christ," who will endure persecution but whose ultimate victory is secured in the triumph of the [Lamb of God over all opposing powers](/revelation/17-14 "Revelation 17:14 - The Lamb Will Conquer").

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

Genesis 10:4

And the sons of Javan; Elishah, and Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim.

Numbers 24:24

And ships [shall come] from the coast of Chittim, and shall afflict Asshur, and shall afflict Eber, and he also shall perish for ever.

Jeremiah 2:10

For pass over the isles of Chittim, and see; and send unto Kedar, and consider diligently, and see if there be such a thing.

Isaiah 23:12

And he said, Thou shalt no more rejoice, O thou oppressed virgin, daughter of Zidon: arise, pass over to Chittim; there also shalt thou have no rest.

Daniel 11:28

Then shall he return into his land with great riches; and his heart [shall be] against the holy covenant; and he shall do [exploits], and return to his own land.

Isaiah 23:1

¶ The burden of Tyre. Howl, ye ships of Tarshish; for it is laid waste, so that there is no house, no entering in: from the land of Chittim it is revealed to them.

Matthew 24:10

And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.