Daniel 11:39

KJV

Thus shall he do in the most strong holds with a strange god, whom he shall acknowledge [and] increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall divide the land for gain.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thus shall he do {H6213} in the most strong {H4581} holds {H4013} with a strange {H5236} god {H433}, whom he shall acknowledge {H5234}{H5234} and increase {H7235} with glory {H3519}: and he shall cause them to rule {H4910} over many {H7227}, and shall divide {H2505} the land {H127} for gain {H4242}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He will deal with the strongest fortresses with the help of a foreign god. He will confer honor on those he acknowledges, causing them to rule over many and distributing land as a reward.

Berean Standard Bible

He will attack the strongest fortresses with the help of a foreign god and will greatly honor those who acknowledge him, making them rulers over many and distributing the land for a price.

American Standard Version

And he shall deal with the strongest fortresses by the help of a foreign god: whosoever acknowledgeth him he will increase with glory; and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall divide the land for a price.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:39 continues the prophetic description of a powerful, blasphemous king, often interpreted as an eschatological figure, who will establish his dominion through military might, a perverted form of worship, and strategic political and economic manipulation. This verse highlights his contempt for traditional deities, his exaltation of a "strange god" (which may represent military power or fortresses), and his method of securing loyalty by granting positions of authority and distributing land for material gain, thereby consolidating absolute control.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11 is a meticulously detailed prophecy, initially outlining the conflicts between the Ptolemaic (King of the South) and Seleucid (King of the North) empires, culminating in the rise of Antiochus IV Epiphanes. However, from [Daniel 11:36](/daniel/11-36 "Daniel 11:36 - The King Who Exalts Himself") onward, the prophecy is widely understood to shift from a historical type to an eschatological figure, often identified as the Antichrist, who will appear in the end times. Verse 39 builds upon the preceding verses, which describe this king's self-exaltation, disregard for traditional gods, and focus on military strength. It details the practical means by which he will enforce his will and secure his power, extending the portrait of his blasphemous and tyrannical reign.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the immediate historical context for the earlier part of Daniel 11 is the Hellenistic period and the wars of the Diadochi, verse 39, as part of the eschatological shift, points to a future, indeterminate period. Culturally, ancient Near Eastern kings often sought to legitimize their rule through divine association or by claiming divine favor. However, this king breaks from that mold by explicitly disregarding the "God of his fathers" and the "desire of women," setting himself apart as a unique figure. The concept of "strongholds" (fortifications) was crucial in ancient warfare, representing strategic points of control and defense. The distribution of land and positions of power was a common method for rulers to reward loyalty and build a patronage system, securing allegiance from their subjects or conquered peoples.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Daniel 11 and the broader book. A dominant theme is **Sovereignty and Control**, as the king attempts to establish absolute dominion through military might and political maneuvering, directly challenging divine authority. The theme of **Idolatry and Blasphemy** is prominent, as the king honors a "strange god" – whether a literal deity of war or the personification of his own military power – effectively elevating himself or his strength above all else, as foreshadowed in [Daniel 11:36](/daniel/11-36 "The King's Self-Exaltation"). Furthermore, the verse highlights the theme of **Materialism and Corruption**, showing how the king uses promises of material gain and positions of power to manipulate and control people, contrasting sharply with the spiritual values emphasized throughout the book of Daniel, particularly in the steadfastness of figures like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in [Daniel 3](/daniel/3 "Daniel 3 - The Fiery Furnace") and [Daniel 6](/daniel/6 "Daniel 6 - Daniel in the Lions' Den").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **strong holds (Hebrew, _mâʻôwz'_):** From H4581. This word refers to a fortified place, a defense, or a fortress. In the context of Daniel 11:39, it speaks to the king's reliance on military fortifications and strategic strongholds. The KJV's "most strong holds" emphasizes the impregnable nature or the king's intense focus on these places. This word is also critical for understanding the "god of forces" or "god of fortresses" (מָעֻזִּים, *ma'uzzim*) mentioned in [Daniel 11:38](/daniel/11-38 "Daniel 11:38 - The King's God of Forces"), as it shares the same root, suggesting a connection between the king's military might and his object of worship.
* **strange (Hebrew, _nêkâr'_):** From H5236. This adjective means foreign, or (concretely) a foreigner, or (abstractly) heathendom. When applied to "god," it signifies a deity that is alien, unknown, or not traditionally worshipped by the people or the king himself. This emphasizes the king's radical departure from established religious norms and his embrace of something entirely new or unconventional as his object of reverence.
* **acknowledge (Hebrew, _nâkar'_):** From H5234. This root means to scrutinize, look intently at, and by implication, to acknowledge, be acquainted with, care for, or respect. In this context, it implies that the king will formally recognize, honor, and pay homage to this "strange god," whatever its nature, thereby elevating it to a position of supreme importance in his kingdom. This "acknowledgement" is not merely passive recognition but an active promotion and glorification.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thus shall he do in the most strong holds":** This phrase indicates the king's strategic actions will be focused on, or carried out within, heavily fortified locations. It speaks to his military prowess and his ability to conquer and control key strategic points, using them as bases for his operations and power projection.
* **"with a strange god, whom he shall acknowledge [and] increase with glory":** This is the most debated part of the verse. The "strange god" (often translated as "god of forces" or "fortresses" in [Daniel 11:38](/daniel/11-38 "Daniel 11:38 - The God of Forces")) implies a deity or principle that is foreign to traditional worship. The king will not only acknowledge this "god" but actively "increase [it] with glory," meaning he will honor it, magnify it, and promote its worship, possibly making it the official cult of his kingdom. This "strange god" could be a literal pagan deity associated with warfare, or, as many scholars interpret, a personification of his own military might, strategic fortifications, or even himself, effectively making his power his god.
* **"and he shall cause them to rule over many":** This clause describes the king's method of securing loyalty and expanding his control. He will grant positions of authority and power to those who align with him and his "strange god." This is a political strategy, rewarding allegiance with dominion over various territories or peoples, thereby creating a network of loyal subordinates who benefit from his reign.
* **"and shall divide the land for gain":** This final clause further illustrates the king's manipulative tactics. He will distribute conquered or controlled land as a reward, not for justice or equity, but for material profit and to solidify his power base. This "gain" could be for himself (through taxes or tribute from the new rulers) or for those he empowers, ensuring their continued support through economic incentives.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Metonymy** is present if "strange god" (or "god of forces" in the preceding verse) is understood not as a literal deity but as a stand-in for military power, fortresses, or the king's own might. In this interpretation, the abstract concept of military strength is referred to by the concrete term "god," highlighting its supreme importance to the king. The phrase "most strong holds" utilizes **Hyperbole** to emphasize the extreme fortifications or the king's overwhelming military focus. Furthermore, the overall description of the king's actions—his blasphemy, his manipulation of power, and his use of material gain—serves as **Foreshadowing** for the ultimate manifestation of evil and anti-God rule in the end times, a theme prevalent throughout apocalyptic literature.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 11:39 powerfully illustrates the nature of worldly power when it opposes divine authority. It reveals a pattern of tyrannical rule characterized by self-exaltation, the perversion of worship, and the use of material incentives to control people. The king's disregard for traditional gods and his elevation of a "strange god" (whether literal or symbolic of military might) underscores a fundamental theological truth: humanity's inherent need to worship will always find an object, and when the true God is rejected, something else—be it power, wealth, or self—will inevitably fill the void. This verse serves as a stark warning against the allure of earthly power and the dangers of compromising spiritual integrity for temporal gain. It challenges believers to discern the true source of authority and to remain steadfast in their allegiance to God alone, even when faced with overwhelming worldly pressures.

* [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 - The Man of Lawlessness")
* [Revelation 13:4](/revelation/13-4 "Revelation 13:4 - Worshiping the Beast")
* [Matthew 6:24](/matthew/6-24 "Matthew 6:24 - Serving Two Masters")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 11:39, while rooted in ancient prophecy, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It calls us to a deeper discernment regarding the nature of power in our world. We are challenged to recognize that earthly systems, even those appearing strong and prosperous, can be built on foundations contrary to God's will, leveraging military might, economic incentives, and even distorted forms of spirituality to achieve control. This verse reminds us that true security and lasting prosperity are not found in the promises of worldly leaders or the accumulation of material wealth, but in unwavering trust in the Lord. It prompts us to examine our own allegiances: Do we subtly acknowledge "strange gods" in our lives—be it financial security, social status, or personal ambition—and increase them with glory, rather than giving God His rightful place? The prophecy encourages us to remain vigilant, spiritually prepared, and grounded in the eternal truths of God's Word, especially in times when the world's values seem increasingly at odds with biblical principles.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might we, even subtly, "acknowledge" or "increase with glory" things other than God in our own lives or societies today?**
* **How can believers cultivate discernment to recognize the true nature of power and authority in the world, especially when it is presented attractively with promises of "gain"?**
* **What does this verse teach us about the importance of spiritual preparedness and steadfastness in a world that often prioritizes material wealth and worldly influence over faithfulness to God?**

### FAQ
**What is the "strange god" mentioned in Daniel 11:39?**

Answer: The "strange god" (Hebrew: *elohah nekar*) is a highly debated phrase. In the immediate context of Daniel 11:38, it is referred to as the "god of forces" or "god of fortresses" (*ma'uzzim*). One interpretation is that this refers to a literal pagan deity associated with warfare, strength, or fortifications, whom the king will honor above all others. However, a widely accepted interpretation, especially given the king's self-exaltation described in [Daniel 11:36](/daniel/11-36 "Daniel 11:36 - The King's Self-Exaltation"), is that the "strange god" is not an external deity but rather a personification of the king's own military might, strategic fortresses, or even himself. In this view, the king makes his own power and strength his ultimate object of worship and reliance, effectively deifying his own capabilities and resources. This aligns with the idea that he will "acknowledge" and "increase with glory" this "god," suggesting an active promotion of his own strength as the supreme authority.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 11:39 describes a king who exalts himself and relies on military might and material gain, it ultimately points to the stark contrast with the reign of Jesus Christ. The "strange god" honored by this king, whether literal or symbolic of human power, stands in direct opposition to the one true God revealed in Christ. Unlike the tyrannical king who "divides the land for gain" and establishes rule through manipulation and force, Jesus' kingdom is not of this world ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - My Kingdom Is Not of This World")). He does not seek to rule over "strong holds" through violence but conquers hearts through sacrificial love, embodying true strength in humility and service ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility")). The king in Daniel distributes land for "gain," but Christ offers an eternal inheritance and spiritual riches beyond measure to those who follow Him ([Ephesians 1:11-14](/ephesians/1-11-14 "Ephesians 1:11-14 - Our Inheritance in Christ")). Ultimately, this verse, by portraying the epitome of anti-God rule, accentuates the glorious and righteous reign of Christ, who alone is worthy of all glory and honor, and whose kingdom is built not on human strength or material incentives, but on truth, justice, and self-giving love ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")).

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

Revelation 18:9

¶ And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication and lived deliciously with her, shall bewail her, and lament for her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning,

Revelation 18:13

And cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men.