Daniel 11:33

KJV

And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, [many] days.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they that understand {H7919} among the people {H5971} shall instruct {H995} many {H7227}: yet they shall fall {H3782} by the sword {H2719}, and by flame {H3852}, by captivity {H7628}, and by spoil {H961}, many days {H3117}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Those among the people who have discernment will cause the rest of the people to understand what is happening; nevertheless, for a while they will fall victim to sword, fire, exile and pillage.

Berean Standard Bible

Those with insight will instruct many, though for a time they will fall by sword or flame, or be captured or plundered.

American Standard Version

And they that are wise among the people shall instruct many; yet they shall fall by the sword and by flame, by captivity and by spoil, many days.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:33 is a profound prophetic declaration concerning the steadfast and spiritually discerning individuals within God's people who, despite facing intense and prolonged persecution—including death by sword and fire, along with captivity and plunder—remain committed to instructing and guiding many others in truth and righteousness. This verse highlights the severe cost of faithfulness during periods of tribulation, underscoring the unwavering resolve of those who truly understand God's purposes.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11 unfolds as one of the most detailed and extensive prophecies in the Bible, providing a panoramic view of geopolitical conflicts from the Persian Empire's decline through the Hellenistic period. The chapter meticulously describes the "King of the North" (Seleucid Empire) and the "King of the South" (Ptolemaic Empire), culminating in the actions of a particularly malicious figure, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, in verses 21-35. Daniel 11:33 specifically falls within the section detailing Antiochus's persecution of the Jewish people (vv. 30b-35). It serves as a crucial counterpoint to the apostasy described in verse 32, where some Jews are said to "corrupt by flattery." In contrast, verse 33 highlights the faithful remnant who resist compromise and actively uphold God's truth, even unto martyrdom, thus setting the stage for the ultimate vindication of the righteous in [Daniel 12](/daniel/12 "Daniel 12 - The Resurrection and End Times").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The immediate historical backdrop for Daniel 11:33 is the reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes (175-164 BC), a Seleucid king known for his brutal Hellenization policies. He sought to forcibly suppress Jewish religious practices, desecrated the Jerusalem Temple by sacrificing a pig on its altar, and erected an idol to Zeus, an event known as the "Abomination of Desolation" ([Daniel 11:31](/daniel/11-31 "Daniel 11:31 - The Abomination of Desolation")). During this period, Jewish faithfulness was put to the ultimate test. Those who refused to abandon their covenant with God faced severe torture and execution. The forms of persecution mentioned—sword, flame, captivity, and spoil—were common methods employed by ancient empires to subdue and punish rebellious or non-compliant populations. The Maccabean Revolt (167-160 BC) arose directly from this intense persecution, demonstrating the historical reality of the "understanding ones" who resisted and instructed others.
* **Key Themes:** Daniel 11:33 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Daniel and biblical prophecy. Firstly, it emphasizes **Spiritual Discernment and Wisdom**, highlighting the critical role of those who possess true understanding of God's will and prophetic timeline in times of widespread apostasy and deception. Secondly, it underscores the **Call to Instruction and Discipleship**, showing that genuine understanding is not passive but compels the faithful to actively teach and guide others, preserving truth amidst spiritual darkness. Thirdly, the verse starkly portrays the theme of **Suffering and Persecution for Righteousness**, revealing that faithfulness to God often comes at a high cost, including martyrdom, a theme echoed throughout Scripture (e.g., [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessings of Persecution")). Finally, the phrase "many days" points to the theme of **Endurance and Perseverance**, indicating that the period of tribulation for the faithful would be prolonged, necessitating unwavering commitment and trust in God's ultimate sovereignty and deliverance, as seen in [Daniel 12:12](/daniel/12-12 "Daniel 12:12 - Blessed is He Who Waits").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **understand (Hebrew, _sâkal'_):** From H7919, meaning to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent; to consider, be prudent, have good success, teach, have understanding, be wise. This is not merely intellectual comprehension but a practical, spiritual wisdom that leads to righteous action and discernment of God's will and times. It implies insight into divine truth and prophetic revelation.
* **fall (Hebrew, _kâshal'_):** From H3782, meaning to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall; to be ruined or overthrown. In this context, it vividly describes the physical demise and suffering of the faithful, indicating their literal death or severe injury and downfall at the hands of their persecutors.
* **many days (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** From H3117, meaning a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an associated term). The use of "many days" here signifies a prolonged period of time, emphasizing the extended duration of the persecution and suffering endured by the faithful, rather than a brief, isolated incident.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they that understand among the people":** This phrase identifies a specific group within the broader community of God's people. These are individuals characterized by spiritual insight, discernment, and wisdom (as defined by _sâkal'_). They are not merely intellectually sharp but possess a profound comprehension of God's covenant, His purposes, and the signs of the times, enabling them to remain faithful when others compromise or apostatize.
* **"shall instruct many":** The understanding ones are not passive recipients of truth; they are active communicators. Their understanding compels them to teach, guide, and warn others, particularly those who may be wavering or susceptible to deception. This highlights their prophetic and pastoral role in preserving and propagating truth, even in hostile environments.
* **"yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame":** This clause introduces a stark contrast and the grim reality of their faithfulness. Despite their wisdom and ministry, they will suffer violent deaths. "Sword" refers to execution by military force, while "flame" indicates burning, either as a form of execution or torture, or the destruction of their homes and property by fire. This underscores the severity of the persecution they face.
* **"by captivity, and by spoil":** These phrases describe additional forms of suffering and loss. "Captivity" refers to imprisonment or forced exile, stripping individuals of their freedom and homeland. "Spoil" (or plunder) denotes the confiscation of their possessions, property, and wealth, leaving them destitute. These terms collectively paint a picture of comprehensive material and physical devastation.
* **"[many] days":** This final phrase emphasizes the prolonged nature of the tribulation. It suggests that the suffering, persecution, and martyrdom would not be a fleeting event but an enduring period, demanding sustained endurance and perseverance from the faithful remnant.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 11:33 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Prophecy**, as the verse is a direct predictive statement about future events and the fate of God's people. There is a strong element of **Contrast** evident between "they that understand" who "instruct many" and the subsequent declaration that "yet they shall fall." This juxtaposition highlights the paradox of faithful service leading to suffering, rather than immediate triumph. The specific methods of persecution—"by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil"—serve as **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, representing the full spectrum of violent oppression and loss. These are not merely literal descriptions but stand for the comprehensive nature of the tribulation. The phrase "[many] days" functions as **Hyperbole** or **Understatement** depending on the interpretation, but primarily emphasizes the prolonged and arduous nature of the suffering, impressing upon the reader the need for long-term endurance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 11:33 profoundly speaks to the theology of suffering for righteousness, a recurring theme throughout biblical history. It asserts that spiritual understanding and faithful instruction, while divinely ordained, do not guarantee immunity from hardship; rather, they often invite intensified opposition from the forces hostile to God. This verse reveals God's sovereignty even over the suffering of His saints, as their trials are not random but part of a divine plan that tests and refines faith, ultimately leading to greater glory and vindication. The enduring faithfulness of the "understanding ones" serves as a powerful testimony to God's sustaining grace and the ultimate triumph of truth, even when it appears to be defeated in the short term. Their willingness to suffer unto death underscores the eternal value of God's truth over temporal comfort or safety.

* [Matthew 10:28](/matthew/10-28 "Matthew 10:28 - Fear God, Not Man"): "And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell."
* [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godliness"): "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution."
* [Hebrews 11:35-38](/hebrews/11-35-38 "Hebrews 11:35-38 - The Faith of Martyrs"): "Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection... They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:)..."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 11:33 offers a sobering yet deeply encouraging message for believers in every age. It challenges us to cultivate a spiritual understanding that goes beyond mere intellectual assent, enabling us to discern God's truth and purposes even amidst confusion and opposition. This understanding is not for personal benefit alone but carries a divine mandate to instruct and guide others, becoming beacons of light in a darkening world. The verse also serves as a critical reminder that faithfulness to Christ may indeed involve suffering, opposition, and even martyrdom. It prepares us to embrace the cost of discipleship, knowing that our ultimate reward is not found in earthly comfort but in eternal communion with God. In a world that often values compromise and convenience, Daniel 11:33 calls us to unwavering perseverance, reminding us that our trials, however prolonged, are ultimately under God's sovereign hand and contribute to His greater plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my current level of spiritual "understanding" equip me to discern truth and resist compromise in today's world?**
* **In what ways am I actively instructing or guiding others in spiritual truth, even when it might be challenging or unpopular?**
* **Am I prepared to face hardship or opposition for my faith, trusting in God's ultimate victory rather than immediate deliverance?**
* **What specific steps can I take to cultivate greater perseverance and endurance in my faith for the "many days" of life's trials?**

### FAQ
**Who are "they that understand" mentioned in Daniel 11:33?**

Answer: "They that understand" refers to a faithful remnant within God's people who possess deep spiritual insight and discernment. In the immediate historical context of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, these were the pious Jews who refused to compromise their faith by adopting Hellenistic customs or worshipping pagan idols. They understood God's covenant, the implications of the prophetic warnings, and the true nature of the tribulation they faced. The Hebrew word _sâkal'_ (H7919) implies not just intellectual knowledge but practical wisdom and prudence that leads to righteous action. The phrase also carries an eschatological dimension, pointing to those in every age, particularly the end times, who grasp God's truth and remain steadfast amidst deception and persecution, as further elaborated in [Daniel 12:3](/daniel/12-3 "Daniel 12:3 - The Wise and Their Reward").

**Does this prophecy only apply to the historical period of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, or does it have broader implications?**

Answer: While Daniel 11:33 finds its primary historical fulfillment in the persecution of the Jews under Antiochus IV Epiphanes during the Maccabean period, biblical prophecy often operates on a principle of "dual fulfillment" or "typology." Many scholars view Antiochus IV as a "type" or foreshadowing of a greater, end-time persecutor, often identified as the Antichrist. Therefore, the experiences of the "understanding ones" in Daniel's time serve as a pattern for the faithful in later periods, especially during the climactic "great tribulation" described in passages like [Matthew 24:21](/matthew/24-21 "Matthew 24:21 - The Great Tribulation") and [Revelation 7:14](/revelation/7-14 "Revelation 7:14 - The Great Tribulation"). The verse thus carries timeless relevance, describing the enduring reality of persecution for those who faithfully uphold and proclaim God's truth across history.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 11:33, while rooted in the Old Testament context of Israel's suffering, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ and His church. Jesus Himself is the ultimate "one who understands," possessing perfect wisdom and discernment, and He is the supreme Instructor who came to "instruct many" in the ways of God's kingdom ([John 1:18](/john/1-18 "John 1:18 - The Revelation of God")). Yet, His faithfulness led Him to "fall by the sword" (figuratively, through crucifixion) and by the "flame" of divine wrath against sin, enduring immense suffering, captivity, and spoil (stripped of His garments, His very life taken) for "many days" in the tomb before His resurrection. Just as the faithful in Daniel's time endured, so Christ endured the cross, despising its shame, for the joy set before Him ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Pioneer and Perfecter of Faith")). Furthermore, the church, as Christ's body, is called to follow in His footsteps. Believers, empowered by the Holy Spirit, are to be "understanding" and to "instruct many" through the proclamation of the Gospel. This mission often entails sharing in Christ's sufferings, facing persecution, imprisonment, and even martyrdom, as foretold by Jesus Himself ([John 15:20](/john/15-20 "John 15:20 - Persecution of Believers")). Thus, Daniel 11:33 foreshadows the suffering of the Messiah and His followers, assuring us that even in the face of overwhelming tribulation, God's purposes will prevail, and those who remain faithful unto death will ultimately share in Christ's glorious resurrection and eternal reign ([Revelation 2:10](/revelation/2-10 "Revelation 2:10 - Faithfulness Unto Death")).

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

Malachi 2:7

For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he [is] the messenger of the LORD of hosts.

Matthew 24:9

Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.

John 16:2

They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.

Daniel 12:10

Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.

Isaiah 32:3

And the eyes of them that see shall not be dim, and the ears of them that hear shall hearken.

Isaiah 32:4

The heart also of the rash shall understand knowledge, and the tongue of the stammerers shall be ready to speak plainly.

Daniel 12:3

And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.