Daniel 11:44

KJV

But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall trouble him: therefore he shall go forth with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make away many.

KJV (with Strong's)

But tidings {H8052} out of the east {H4217} and out of the north {H6828} shall trouble {H926} him: therefore he shall go forth {H3318} with great {H1419} fury {H2534} to destroy {H8045}, and utterly to make away {H2763} many {H7227}.

Complete Jewish Bible

However, news from the east and north will frighten him, so that he moves out in great fury to ruin and completely do away with many.

Berean Standard Bible

But news from the east and the north will alarm him, and he will go out with great fury to destroy many and devote them to destruction.

American Standard Version

But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall trouble him; and he shall go forth with great fury to destroy and utterly to sweep away many.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 11:44 describes a powerful, end-time ruler, often identified as the Antichrist, who receives alarming news from the east and north. This intelligence provokes an intense and furious reaction, prompting him to launch a devastating campaign aimed at widespread destruction and annihilation of many. The verse highlights the extreme malice and destructive intent of this figure in the climactic events leading to the end of his reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 11 is a remarkably detailed prophetic chapter, beginning with a broad sweep of Persian kings and then focusing intensely on the Hellenistic period, particularly the conflicts between the Seleucid (King of the North) and Ptolemaic (King of the South) dynasties. Verses 1-35 are widely understood to describe historical events with astonishing accuracy, culminating in the actions of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a historical figure who severely persecuted the Jewish people in the 2nd century BC. However, a significant interpretive shift occurs around verse 36, where the prophecy appears to transition from historical events to an eschatological figure, often identified as the Antichrist, who will arise in the end times. This transition is marked by a sudden increase in the ruler's self-exaltation and defiance of God. Daniel 11:44, therefore, falls within this eschatological section, describing the final, desperate actions of this powerful, destructive figure just before his ultimate demise, as detailed in [Daniel 11:45](/daniel/11-45 "Daniel 11:45 - The Antichrist's End").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While Daniel 11:44 is primarily understood eschatologically, its imagery draws from the historical conflicts that characterized the ancient Near East. The "King of the North" and "King of the South" were historically the Seleucid and Ptolemaic empires, respectively, which frequently warred over control of the land of Israel. The concept of "tidings from the east and north" would have resonated with ancient readers, as these directions often represented sources of invasion or significant political power (e.g., Assyria and Babylon from the north/east, or Parthia from the east). Culturally, the idea of a ruler responding to threats with "great fury" and "utter destruction" was common in ancient warfare, where conquered peoples were often subjected to brutal subjugation or annihilation as a demonstration of power and a deterrent to future rebellion. The Hebrew term "charam" (utterly to make away) carries a strong connotation of devoted destruction, often with religious or cultic implications, signifying a total ban or extermination.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Daniel and broader biblical prophecy. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **divine sovereignty over history**, demonstrating that even the most powerful and destructive human rulers operate within the bounds of God's predetermined plan, as emphasized in [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms"). Secondly, it underscores the **nature of evil and its ultimate defeat**. The "great fury" and "utter destruction" portray the extreme malice of the end-time adversary, a figure who opposes God and His people, echoing the descriptions of the "little horn" in [Daniel 7](/daniel/7 "Daniel 7 - The Four Beasts and the Ancient of Days"). Thirdly, the verse contributes to the theme of **eschatological conflict and tribulation**, foreshadowing a period of intense global upheaval and persecution before the establishment of God's eternal kingdom, a period also described in [Matthew 24:21](/matthew/24-21 "Matthew 24:21 - The Great Tribulation"). Finally, it subtly points to the **necessity of divine intervention** to bring an end to such tyranny, setting the stage for the glorious return of Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tidings (Hebrew, _shᵉmûwʻâh'_):** This word (H8052) refers to something heard, an announcement, news, or report. In this context, it signifies intelligence or rumors that reach the ruler, indicating information that is significant enough to provoke a strong reaction. The nature of these tidings is unsettling, implying a threat or challenge to his authority or plans.
* **Trouble (Hebrew, _bâhal'_):** From H926, this verb means to tremble inwardly, be alarmed, agitated, dismayed, or to hasten anxiously. It conveys a sense of sudden disturbance and internal turmoil. The news from the east and north does not merely inform him; it profoundly unsettles him, leading to a hasty and furious response rather than a measured one.
* **Fury (Hebrew, _chêmâh'_):** This term (H2534) denotes heat, figuratively anger, or wrath. It describes an intense, boiling rage that drives the ruler's actions. This is not just strategic aggression but a passionate, destructive outburst, indicating a loss of control or a deliberate unleashing of extreme violence.
* **Utterly to make away (Hebrew, _châram'_):** From H2763, this primitive root means to seclude, specifically (by a ban) to devote to religious uses (especially destruction). It signifies a complete and total destruction, often without quarter, implying a merciless annihilation. This is a far stronger term than mere conquest, suggesting a genocidal intent or a complete eradication of opposition.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall trouble him":** This opening clause introduces the catalyst for the ruler's extreme reaction. The "tidings" (news or reports) originate from two specific geographical directions: the east and the north. These directions traditionally represent significant geopolitical powers or threats in biblical prophecy. The news is not merely informative but deeply "troubles" or alarms him, suggesting a direct challenge or a perceived threat to his dominion or security. This internal agitation is the immediate precursor to his violent response.
* **"therefore he shall go forth with great fury":** The "therefore" establishes a direct causal link between the troubling news and his subsequent action. His response is not strategic calculation but an outpouring of "great fury," indicating an intense, possibly irrational, anger. The phrase "go forth" implies a military campaign or a decisive movement, driven by this overwhelming rage rather than calm deliberation. This fury is the driving force behind his destructive intent.
* **"to destroy, and utterly to make away many":** This final phrase defines the objective and scale of his campaign. He intends to "destroy," which implies widespread devastation, and even more intensely, to "utterly to make away" (from the Hebrew _charam_), which denotes complete annihilation or devotion to destruction. The target of this wrath is "many," indicating a large number of people or nations. This highlights the comprehensive and merciless nature of his destructive agenda, aiming for total eradication of his perceived enemies.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 11:44 employs several powerful **Literary Devices** to convey its message. The use of **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as the verse anticipates a climactic and destructive campaign by the end-time ruler, building tension towards his ultimate demise in the subsequent verse. **Hyperbole** is evident in the description of his "great fury" and the intent to "utterly to make away many," emphasizing the extreme and overwhelming nature of his wrath and destructive capacity. The geographical references to "east" and "north" serve as **Symbolism**, representing traditional sources of external threats or opposition in ancient Near Eastern geopolitics, thereby grounding the eschatological prophecy in familiar historical patterns. The vivid imagery of "fury" and "destroy, and utterly to make away" creates a strong sense of **Pathos** and urgency, painting a picture of a terrifying and merciless adversary.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The theological significance of Daniel 11:44 lies in its portrayal of the escalating nature of evil and the ultimate confrontation between human rebellion and divine sovereignty. This verse describes the final, desperate actions of an adversary who, despite his immense power and destructive intent, is ultimately limited by God's overarching plan. It underscores the biblical theme that human pride and defiance against God invariably lead to self-destruction, even when seemingly successful for a time. The "fury" and "utter destruction" reflect the unbridled malice of a world system alienated from God, which seeks to eradicate all opposition, particularly against God's people. Yet, within Daniel's broader narrative, such raging evil always precedes God's decisive intervention and the establishment of His eternal kingdom, providing a profound message of hope amidst tribulation.

* [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 - The Man of Lawlessness")
* [Revelation 16:12](/revelation/16-12 "Revelation 16:12 - Kings from the East")
* [Revelation 19:19-20](/revelation/19-19-20 "Revelation 19:19-20 - The Beast and False Prophet Defeated")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 11:44, though describing a future, terrifying scenario, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that spiritual warfare is real and that forces of evil, driven by intense fury, seek to destroy. In a world often marked by conflict and aggression, this verse calls us to spiritual vigilance and discernment, recognizing that behind geopolitical events can lie deeper spiritual realities. However, it also serves as a powerful anchor for our hope. The very description of this ruler's rage and destructive campaign, followed immediately by his end in the subsequent verse, reinforces the truth that no human power, no matter how formidable or malevolent, can ultimately thwart God's sovereign plan. Our response should not be fear, but rather a renewed commitment to living faithfully, trusting in God's ultimate victory, and actively participating in His kingdom work, knowing that His justice and peace will ultimately prevail over all human fury and destruction.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the "fury" and "destructive" nature of this end-time figure deepen your appreciation for God's ultimate control and justice?**
* **What "tidings" or world events today might cause alarm, and how can believers respond with discernment and faith rather than fear?**
* **In what ways does the concept of "utter destruction" challenge or affirm your understanding of God's holiness and judgment against evil?**
* **How does this prophecy encourage you to live with a greater sense of urgency and purpose in light of Christ's promised return?**

### FAQ
**Who is "him" in Daniel 11:44?**

Answer: While the initial part of Daniel 11 historically refers to Antiochus IV Epiphanes, most evangelical commentators believe that from [Daniel 11:36](/daniel/11-36 "Daniel 11:36 - The Willful King") onwards, the prophecy shifts to describe a future, eschatological figure, often identified as the Antichrist or the "man of lawlessness" mentioned in [2 Thessalonians 2:3](/2_thessalonians/2-3 "2 Thessalonians 2:3 - The Man of Lawlessness"). This interpretation is supported by the extreme self-exaltation and divine defiance of the figure, which goes beyond what is historically known of Antiochus IV, and aligns with other end-time prophecies in Daniel and Revelation.

**What do "tidings out of the east and out of the north" refer to?**

Answer: These tidings likely refer to military or political threats originating from these geographical directions. In ancient Near Eastern geopolitics, the "east" could signify powers like Parthia or other eastern kingdoms, while the "north" often referred to empires like Assyria, Babylon, or even Russia in some modern interpretations. In an eschatological context, these could represent a coalition of nations or significant geopolitical developments that challenge the Antichrist's authority, prompting his furious and destructive response. [Revelation 16:12](/revelation/16-12 "Revelation 16:12 - Kings from the East") also mentions "kings from the east" in an end-time context, suggesting a significant role for eastern powers.

**What is the significance of "utterly to make away many"?**

Answer: The phrase "utterly to make away" translates the Hebrew word _charam_ (H2763), which carries a strong connotation of devotion to destruction, often in a religious or military context, implying a complete and merciless annihilation. This is not mere conquest or subjugation but a total eradication, akin to a "holy war" or a "ban" where everything is destroyed. Its significance lies in highlighting the extreme, genocidal intent of this end-time ruler, who seeks not just victory but the complete obliteration of his enemies, particularly those who oppose his blasphemous claims or stand with God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Daniel 11:44 describes the furious and destructive actions of an ultimate adversary, its Christ-centered fulfillment is found not in a direct parallel of Christ's actions, but in the stark contrast it provides to His character and the ultimate triumph of His kingdom over such evil. The "great fury" and "utter destruction" of the Antichrist stand in direct opposition to the self-sacrificial love of Christ, who came "not to destroy men's lives but to save them" ([Luke 9:56](/luke/9-56 "Luke 9:56 - Jesus' Mission")). Furthermore, this verse sets the stage for the glorious return of Jesus Christ, who will decisively defeat this destructive ruler and establish His righteous kingdom. The Antichrist's rampage, culminating in his end in [Daniel 11:45](/daniel/11-45 "Daniel 11:45 - The Antichrist's End"), foreshadows the ultimate judgment described in the New Testament, where Christ, the true King, will cast the beast and false prophet into the lake of fire ([Revelation 19:20](/revelation/19-20 "Revelation 19:20 - The Beast and False Prophet Cast into the Lake of Fire")). Thus, Daniel 11:44, by vividly portraying the depths of human evil and the raging opposition to God, ultimately magnifies the necessity and glory of Christ's redemptive work and His triumphant reign, where all fury will be quelled and true peace established under His eternal dominion ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace")).

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 19:19

And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army.

Revelation 19:21

And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which [sword] proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh.

Revelation 17:13

These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.

Daniel 11:30

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.

Revelation 16:12

¶ And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared.

Ezekiel 38:9

Thou shalt ascend and come like a storm, thou shalt be like a cloud to cover the land, thou, and all thy bands, and many people with thee.

Ezekiel 38:12

To take a spoil, and to take a prey; to turn thine hand upon the desolate places [that are now] inhabited, and upon the people [that are] gathered out of the nations, which have gotten cattle and goods, that dwell in the midst of the land.