Daniel 11:42

KJV

He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries: and the land of Egypt shall not escape.

KJV (with Strong's)

He shall stretch forth {H7971} his hand {H3027} also upon the countries {H776}: and the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714} shall not escape {H6413}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He will reach out his hand to seize other countries too. The land of Egypt will not escape -

Berean Standard Bible

He will extend his power over many countries, and not even the land of Egypt will escape.

American Standard Version

He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries; and the land of Egypt shall not escape.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:42 presents a stark prophetic declaration concerning the extensive military campaigns and overwhelming dominance of the "king of the north," a figure whose historical embodiment in Antiochus IV Epiphanes foreshadows a future, ultimate antagonist. This verse specifically highlights the king's unhindered expansion across various territories and his decisive subjugation of Egypt, emphasizing the totality of his power and the inability of even formidable nations to resist his advance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11 is a remarkably detailed prophetic chapter, often referred to as "the most detailed prophecy in the Bible," outlining a long sequence of historical events from the Persian Empire's decline through the Hellenistic period. Verses 2-35 primarily describe the conflicts between the Seleucid (King of the North) and Ptolemaic (King of the South) dynasties, which arose from the division of Alexander the Great's empire. This specific verse, Daniel 11:42, falls within a section (verses 36-45) that many scholars interpret as shifting from historical fulfillment in Antiochus IV Epiphanes to a future, eschatological figure—the Antichrist. The immediate preceding verses detail this king's self-exaltation, disregard for traditional gods, and military prowess, setting the stage for his sweeping conquests. The subsequent verses will describe his ultimate demise, asserting God's final triumph over all earthly opposition.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Daniel 11 is the post-Alexandrian era, a period marked by intense geopolitical struggle among the Diadochi (Alexander's generals) and their successors. The Ptolemaic dynasty ruled Egypt (the "king of the south"), and the Seleucid dynasty controlled Syria and Mesopotamia (the "king of the north"). These two powers frequently clashed over control of Judea, which lay strategically between them. Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king (175-164 BC), is widely recognized as the primary historical fulfillment of many aspects of Daniel 11, particularly his persecution of the Jews, his desecration of the Temple (the "abomination of desolation"), and his military campaigns, including those against Egypt. The cultural context involves the clash of Hellenistic influence with Jewish monotheism, a tension vividly portrayed in the Maccabean revolt, which arose in response to Antiochus's oppressive policies. Egypt, a land of ancient power and wealth, was a coveted prize, and its subjugation would signify immense regional dominance.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Daniel. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's meticulous foreknowledge and control over the rise and fall of empires and rulers, even those seemingly unstoppable. The detailed nature of the prophecy, predicting events centuries in advance, serves as a testament to God's ultimate authority, as seen in [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons") where God "removes kings and sets up kings." Secondly, it develops the theme of **Human Arrogance and Rebellion**, exemplified by the king's self-exaltation and his disregard for divine authority, mirroring the pride that often precedes a fall, a pattern seen throughout biblical history. Thirdly, the repeated conflicts between the "king of the north" and "king of the south" highlight the **Struggle Between Worldly Powers**, a constant feature of human history, yet always operating within the boundaries of God's overarching plan, as revealed in [Daniel 7](/daniel/7 "Daniel 7 - The Four Beasts and the Son of Man"). Finally, the specific mention of Egypt's inability to escape reinforces the theme of **Inevitability of Prophecy's Fulfillment**, signaling that what God declares will indeed come to pass, regardless of human resistance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Stretch forth (Hebrew, _shâlach'_):** From H7971, a primitive root meaning "to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)." In this context, it denotes an aggressive action of extending power, influence, or military might. It implies a forceful projection of authority, indicating the king's deliberate and assertive move to conquer and control.
* **Hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** From H3027, a primitive word referring to the open hand, often indicating power, means, or direction. When combined with "stretch forth," the phrase "stretch forth his hand" (יִשְׁלַח יָדוֹ - _yishlach yado_) forms an idiom signifying an act of forceful seizure, control, and domination. It is not a mere gesture but an active taking possession, an aggressive assertion of authority over territories and peoples.
* **Escape (Hebrew, _pᵉlêyṭâh'_):** From H6413, a feminine noun meaning "deliverance" or, concretely, "an escaped portion" or "remnant." In the negative construction "shall not escape," it conveys the absolute lack of deliverance, refuge, or survival for Egypt. It signifies that Egypt will have no way out, no means of evading the king's oppressive power, indicating a complete and inescapable subjugation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries:"** This clause describes the expansive and aggressive military campaigns of the "king of the north." The idiom "stretch forth his hand" signifies a forceful act of conquest and domination, indicating that this king will extend his authority and control over numerous nations and territories beyond his immediate sphere. It portrays a figure of immense, unchecked power, actively seizing dominion.
* **"and the land of Egypt shall not escape."** This second clause specifies the fate of Egypt, the "king of the south," in the face of this powerful antagonist. The declaration that Egypt "shall not escape" underscores the absolute and inescapable nature of its subjugation. Despite its historical power and strategic importance, Egypt will find no deliverance, no refuge, and no means of survival from this king's overwhelming might. This highlights the totality of his conquest and the futility of resistance against his formidable forces.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices. **Metonymy** is evident in "stretch forth his hand," where "hand" represents the king's power, authority, and military might. It is not literally his physical hand, but the force and control he wields. This emphasizes the direct and forceful nature of his conquest. **Foreshadowing** is also present, as the historical actions of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, particularly his campaigns against Egypt, serve as a type or prefigurement of a future, ultimate antagonist who will similarly exert global dominance. The definitive statement "shall not escape" functions as **Hyperbole** to emphasize the absolute and inescapable nature of Egypt's subjugation, conveying the overwhelming power of the conquering king. This strong declaration also carries an element of **Irony**, as Egypt, a historical superpower and symbol of strength, is rendered utterly helpless, highlighting the transient nature of earthly power when confronted with a divinely ordained (though wicked) force.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 11:42 profoundly illustrates the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all human affairs. Even the most formidable and tyrannical rulers, who seem to operate without restraint, are ultimately instruments or subjects within God's overarching plan. This verse, detailing the subjugation of Egypt, reminds us that no nation, however strong or historically significant, can escape the divine decree or withstand the forces God permits to rise. It underscores the biblical truth that God "removes kings and sets up kings" ([Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons")), and that human history, with all its conflicts and conquests, is moving towards a divinely appointed climax. The detailed prophecy serves to affirm God's omniscience and His control over the trajectory of redemption history, providing comfort and assurance to believers that even in times of great tribulation, God's purposes will prevail.

* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord Frustrates the Plans of Nations")
* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart is in the Hand of the Lord")
* [Isaiah 14:26-27](/isaiah/14-26-27 "Isaiah 14:26-27 - The Lord's Purpose for the Whole Earth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 11:42, while describing ancient and future geopolitical struggles, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It calls us to cultivate a robust theology of God's sovereignty, recognizing that no earthly power, however menacing or expansive, operates outside the ultimate purview of the Almighty. In a world often characterized by political instability, the rise of authoritarian regimes, and widespread suffering, this verse encourages us to place our ultimate trust not in human leaders, political systems, or military might, but in the unshakeable Kingdom of God. It reminds us that even when evil seems to triumph and oppressors appear unstoppable, their dominion is temporary and their ultimate end is certain. This perspective fosters resilience, prompts fervent prayer for justice and peace, and motivates us to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that our true citizenship is in heaven, and our King is the one who reigns forever.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed nature of this prophecy strengthen your faith in God's sovereignty over world events, even those that seem chaotic or unjust?**
* **In what ways might we be tempted to place our trust in worldly powers or systems rather than in God's ultimate control?**
* **How should the knowledge that all earthly powers are temporary and subject to God's plan influence our prayers and our engagement with the world?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "He" referred to in Daniel 11:42?**

Answer: The "He" in Daniel 11:42 primarily refers to the "king of the north," a figure whose historical fulfillment is largely seen in Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Seleucid king who reigned from 175-164 BC. However, within the broader context of Daniel 11 (especially verses 36-45), many biblical scholars interpret this figure as having a dual fulfillment, also pointing to a future, eschatological Antichrist. This future figure will embody similar characteristics of self-exaltation, military prowess, and opposition to God, ultimately rising to global dominance before his final destruction.

**Why is Egypt specifically mentioned as not escaping?**

Answer: Egypt, often referred to as the "king of the south" in Daniel 11, was a powerful and strategic rival to the "king of the north" (the Seleucid Empire). Its specific mention as not escaping underscores the absolute and comprehensive nature of the conquering king's dominion. Historically, Antiochus IV Epiphanes did indeed launch successful campaigns against Egypt. Prophetically, Egypt's inability to escape signifies that no nation, regardless of its historical power or strategic importance, will be able to withstand or evade the overwhelming force of this ultimate antagonist, highlighting the totality of his global reach and conquest.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 11:42 describes the oppressive reign of a tyrannical earthly king, its ultimate fulfillment points to the absolute sovereignty of God, which is perfectly embodied in Jesus Christ. The "king of the north" stretches forth his hand in conquest and destruction, but Christ stretches forth His hand in creation, healing, and salvation. Unlike the temporary dominion of earthly rulers, Christ's kingdom is eternal and unshakeable, as declared in [Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - The Son of Man's Everlasting Dominion"). Where the king of the north brings subjugation and inescapable doom, Jesus offers true escape and deliverance from the ultimate enemies: sin, death, and the devil. His triumph on the cross and resurrection from the grave represent the ultimate conquest, not of nations, but of spiritual principalities and powers, as affirmed in [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers"). The inability of Egypt to escape the king's hand foreshadows the universal truth that no one can escape the judgment of God, yet for those who believe, Christ himself is the refuge and the way of escape, offering eternal life and freedom from condemnation, as promised in [John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God's Love and Eternal Life"). Thus, Daniel 11:42, in its depiction of a powerful but ultimately doomed earthly ruler, heightens our appreciation for the true King, Jesus Christ, whose reign is one of justice, peace, and everlasting salvation, and whose victory ensures that all who trust in Him will indeed escape the coming wrath and find eternal refuge in His presence, a hope beautifully articulated in [1 Thessalonians 1:10](/1_thessalonians/1-10 "1 Thessalonians 1:10 - Jesus Delivers from the Wrath to Come").

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 11:8

And their dead bodies [shall lie] in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.

Zechariah 14:17

And it shall be, [that] whoso will not come up of [all] the families of the earth unto Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, even upon them shall be no rain.

Zechariah 10:10

I will bring them again also out of the land of Egypt, and gather them out of Assyria; and I will bring them into the land of Gilead and Lebanon; and [place] shall not be found for them.

Zechariah 10:11

And he shall pass through the sea with affliction, and shall smite the waves in the sea, and all the deeps of the river shall dry up: and the pride of Assyria shall be brought down, and the sceptre of Egypt shall depart away.

Ezekiel 29:14

And I will bring again the captivity of Egypt, and will cause them to return [into] the land of Pathros, into the land of their habitation; and they shall be there a base kingdom.