Daniel 11:41

KJV

He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many [countries] shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, [even] Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon.

KJV (with Strong's)

He shall enter {H935} also into the glorious {H6643} land {H776}, and many {H7227} countries shall be overthrown {H3782}: but these shall escape {H4422} out of his hand {H3027}, even Edom {H123}, and Moab {H4124}, and the chief {H7225} of the children {H1121} of Ammon {H5983}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He will also enter the Land of Glory, and many [countries] will come to grief, but these will be saved from his power - Edom, Mo'av and the people of 'Amon.

Berean Standard Bible

He will also invade the Beautiful Land, and many countries will fall. But these will be delivered from his hand: Edom, Moab, and the leaders of the Ammonites.

American Standard Version

He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many countries shall be overthrown; but these shall be delivered out of his hand: Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:41 is a pivotal verse within a detailed prophetic vision, describing the aggressive campaign of a powerful end-times ruler, often identified as the "king of the north." It foretells his successful incursion into the "glorious land" (Israel), leading to widespread conquest and overthrow of many nations, yet remarkably, certain neighboring territories—Edom, Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon—will miraculously escape his dominion, highlighting divine sovereignty amidst global conflict.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11 is a meticulously detailed prophecy, often considered the most specific in the Bible, outlining the rise and fall of empires and rulers from the Persian Empire through the Hellenistic period, culminating in a figure often associated with the Antichrist. Verses 36-45 focus on this final, tyrannical ruler, describing his self-exaltation, military campaigns, and ultimate demise. Daniel 11:41 specifically details a phase of his campaign, where he enters the land of Israel, a central focus of prophetic activity, and encounters unexpected resistance or divine protection concerning specific nations. This verse immediately follows the description of his final, decisive push (Daniel 11:40), indicating the height of his power and the scope of his ambition.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While much of Daniel 11 finds historical fulfillment in the exploits of Antiochus IV Epiphanes (2nd century BC), particularly his desecration of the Jerusalem Temple, the latter portion of the chapter, including verse 41, is widely interpreted by scholars as having an eschatological fulfillment, pointing to a future tyrannical figure. The "glorious land" refers to Israel, a region of immense strategic and spiritual importance throughout history. Edom, Moab, and Ammon were ancient nations located primarily in what is modern-day Jordan, east and southeast of Israel. Historically, these nations were often adversaries of Israel, yet their mention here as escaping the king's hand is significant, suggesting either a strategic alliance, a divinely ordained protection, or that their territories lay outside the king's immediate operational objectives, perhaps serving as a safe haven or a staging ground for future events.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes in Daniel and biblical prophecy. It underscores the **sovereignty of God** over human rulers and world events, demonstrating that even the most formidable powers operate within divine boundaries. The focus on the "glorious land" highlights **Israel's central role in end-times prophecy**, emphasizing its significance as a focal point for both divine activity and adversarial aggression. The widespread conquest followed by the specific exemption of certain nations illustrates the theme of **divine selectivity and protection**, suggesting that God has a precise plan for all peoples and territories. This selective escape also foreshadows the ultimate triumph of God's people over oppressive powers, a theme echoed in passages like [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalm/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord's Counsel Stands Forever") and [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in the Hand of the Lord"), where the Lord directs the hearts of kings.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Glorious (Hebrew, _tsᵉbîy'_):** From a root meaning "prominence," this word signifies splendor, beauty, or ornament. It is often used to describe a gazelle (as beautiful) or, in this context, the land of Israel, emphasizing its unique and cherished status in God's eyes and its inherent beauty and spiritual significance. The phrase "glorious land" (אֶרֶץ הַצְּבִי, _'erets hatzvi'_) literally translates to "land of beauty" or "land of ornament," underscoring its special designation.
* **Overthrown (Hebrew, _kâshal'_):** This primitive root means "to totter or waver," implying weakness, stumbling, fainting, or falling. In a causative sense, it means to cause to fall or to ruin. Here, it vividly describes the complete defeat and subjugation of the "many countries" by the invading king, indicating a widespread and devastating military campaign that leaves nations ruined and in disarray.
* **Escape (Hebrew, _mâlaṭ'_):** A primitive root meaning "to be smooth," which by implication means "to escape" (as if by slipperiness). Causatively, it means to release or rescue. This word highlights the surprising and perhaps miraculous deliverance of Edom, Moab, and Ammon from the grasp of the powerful king, suggesting a divine intervention or a strategic maneuver that allows them to avoid the fate of other conquered nations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He shall enter also into the glorious land,"**: This clause describes the primary objective and successful execution of the king's campaign: his invasion of Israel. The "glorious land" (Israel) is a central target, signifying the spiritual and strategic importance of this territory in prophetic events. The entry implies a forceful occupation or military presence.
* **"and many [countries] shall be overthrown:"**: This indicates the vast scope and destructive power of the king's military might. His campaign is not limited to Israel but extends to numerous other nations, leading to their complete defeat and subjugation. The term "overthrown" suggests utter ruin and collapse.
* **"but these shall escape out of his hand, [even] Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon."**: This is the surprising exception to the king's widespread conquest. Despite his immense power, Edom, Moab, and Ammon, historically located to the east and southeast of Israel, will not fall under his control. "Out of his hand" signifies escaping his power, dominion, or destructive force. The mention of "the chief of the children of Ammon" (literally, "the first of the sons of Ammon") might imply the most prominent or powerful among them, or simply a reference to the core of their population. This exemption is a significant detail, pointing to specific divine purposes or strategic considerations in the unfolding of end-times events.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 11:41 employs several **literary devices** to convey its prophetic message. **Symbolism** is evident in the "glorious land," which symbolizes Israel's unique status and divine favor, making it a focal point for both blessing and conflict. The "king of the north" functions as an **archetype** for a powerful, oppressive, and ultimately anti-God ruler, whose actions foreshadow the Antichrist. The enumeration of "Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon" uses **specific detail** to lend credibility and precision to the prophecy, even if the exact reasons for their escape are left to interpretation, highlighting God's meticulous control over global events. Furthermore, the contrast between the widespread conquest and the specific nations that "escape" creates a powerful **juxtaposition**, emphasizing the selective nature of divine providence and the limits placed even on the most formidable human powers.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 11:41 profoundly illustrates the theological truth of God's absolute sovereignty over human history and the affairs of nations. Even when a powerful, tyrannical ruler appears to be sweeping across the globe, God maintains ultimate control, determining who will fall and who will be spared. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that no human agenda, no matter how ambitious or destructive, can ultimately thwart the divine plan. The specific exemption of Edom, Moab, and Ammon underscores that God's providence is not merely broad but extends to precise details, demonstrating His meticulous orchestration of events for His ultimate purposes. This divine oversight provides comfort and assurance that even in times of great tribulation, God remains on the throne, working all things according to His will.

* [Psalm 76:10](/psalm/76-10 "Psalm 76:10 - The Wrath of Man Shall Praise You")
* [Isaiah 46:10](/isaiah/46-10 "Isaiah 46:10 - Declaring the End from the Beginning")
* [Romans 9:17](/romans/9-17 "Romans 9:17 - God's Purpose in Pharaoh")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 11:41 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. In a world often characterized by political upheaval, global conflicts, and the rise of powerful, sometimes oppressive, regimes, this verse provides a crucial anchor: God is sovereign. We are reminded that even when evil appears to triumph and destructive forces seem unstoppable, they operate within the confines of God's ultimate plan. This should cultivate a deep sense of trust in God's providence, knowing that His purposes will prevail, and His people are ultimately secure in His hand. Furthermore, the specific mention of nations escaping highlights that God's care extends even to those who may not be His covenant people, demonstrating His comprehensive oversight. For us, this means we can pray with confidence for all nations and leaders, knowing that God can turn hearts and alter destinies, and that His protective hand can be extended in unexpected ways. It also challenges us to discern God's hand in current events, not with fear, but with faith in His unfolding redemptive narrative.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the sovereignty of God, as depicted in Daniel 11:41, shape your perspective on current global events and political leaders?**
* **What comfort or challenge do you find in the idea that God has precise control over who is affected and who is spared in times of widespread conflict?**
* **In what ways can recognizing God's ultimate authority over all things impact your prayers and actions in the world today?**

### FAQ
**Why are Edom, Moab, and Ammon specifically mentioned as escaping the king's hand?**

Answer: The exact reasons for the exemption of Edom, Moab, and Ammon are not explicitly stated in the text, leading to various interpretations among scholars. Some suggest it could be due to a strategic alliance formed with the king, perhaps serving as a buffer zone or providing logistical support. Others propose that these territories might simply fall outside the immediate scope of the king's primary objectives, which are focused on the "glorious land" and surrounding regions. A significant theological interpretation is that their escape is a demonstration of divine sovereignty, indicating that God has a specific purpose for these nations or their territories, and He actively limits the reach of even the most powerful human rulers. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that God can protect certain peoples or places for His own mysterious purposes, as seen in [Exodus 8:22-23](/exodus/8-22-23 "Exodus 8:22-23 - Distinction Between Israel and Egypt") during the plagues in Egypt.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 11:41 describes a future tyrannical ruler and specific nations escaping his grasp, its ultimate fulfillment points to the sovereign reign of Jesus Christ. The "king of the north" represents the epitome of human rebellion and oppressive power, a figure whose ultimate defeat is assured by the coming of the true King. Just as certain nations escape the hand of this earthly tyrant, so too will those who are "in Christ" escape the ultimate judgment and the dominion of sin and death. Jesus, the true King, entered the "glorious land" not as a conqueror to overthrow nations, but as the [Lamb of God to take away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). His kingdom, unlike earthly empires, is eternal and spiritual ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World")). The ultimate escape from the hand of evil is found in Him, for He has [disarmed the powers and authorities](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities") through His cross. Thus, Daniel 11:41, by highlighting divine control over earthly powers and selective preservation, foreshadows the comprehensive and eternal salvation offered through Christ, who will ultimately [put all enemies under His feet](/1_corinthians/15-25 "1 Corinthians 15:25 - Christ Must Reign").

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

Jeremiah 48:47

Yet will I bring again the captivity of Moab in the latter days, saith the LORD. Thus far [is] the judgment of Moab.

Jeremiah 49:6

And afterward I will bring again the captivity of the children of Ammon, saith the LORD.

Jeremiah 9:26

Egypt, and Judah, and Edom, and the children of Ammon, and Moab, and all [that are] in the utmost corners, that dwell in the wilderness: for all [these] nations [are] uncircumcised, and all the house of Israel [are] uncircumcised in the heart.

Daniel 11:16

But he that cometh against him shall do according to his own will, and none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious land, which by his hand shall be consumed.

Isaiah 11:13

The envy also of Ephraim shall depart, and the adversaries of Judah shall be cut off: Ephraim shall not envy Judah, and Judah shall not vex Ephraim.

Isaiah 11:15

And the LORD shall utterly destroy the tongue of the Egyptian sea; and with his mighty wind shall he shake his hand over the river, and shall smite it in the seven streams, and make [men] go over dryshod.

Daniel 11:45

And he shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and none shall help him.