Daniel 11:43

But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt: and the Libyans and the Ethiopians [shall be] at his steps.

But he shall have power {H4910} over the treasures {H4362} of gold {H2091} and of silver {H3701}, and over all the precious {H2532} things of Egypt {H4714}: and the Libyans {H3864} and the Ethiopians {H3569} shall be at his steps {H4703}.

he will control the treasures of gold and silver, as well as everything else in Egypt of value. Put and Ethiopia will be subject to him.

He will gain control of the treasures of gold and silver and over all the riches of Egypt, and the Libyans and Cushites will also submit to him.

But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt; and the Libyans and the Ethiopians shall be at his steps.

Commentary

Commentary on Daniel 11:43 (KJV)

Daniel 11:43 continues the prophetic description of a powerful ruler, often referred to as the "King of the North," whose actions dominate the latter part of this chapter. This verse highlights his vast economic and military control, particularly over key territories in the Middle East and North Africa.

Context

Chapter 11 of Daniel is a highly detailed prophecy, initially describing historical conflicts between the Seleucid (King of the North) and Ptolemaic (King of the South) dynasties. However, many biblical scholars interpret the latter verses of the chapter, particularly from verse 36 onwards, as shifting from historical events to a future, end-time prophecy concerning a figure often identified with the Antichrist. This figure, distinct from historical kings, is described as exalting himself above every god and operating with unprecedented power and defiance against God. Verse 43 specifically details his dominion over financial resources and subjugation of nations.

Key Themes

  • Dominion and Plunder: The verse emphasizes the King of the North's immense power to seize and control wealth. His "power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt" signifies not just economic influence but direct appropriation of resources, likely through conquest or tribute. This points to a significant transfer of global wealth into his hands.
  • Military and Political Subjugation: The phrase "the Libyans and the Ethiopians shall be at his steps" indicates that these nations, located to the west and south of Egypt, will be under his direct control, serving him, or perhaps forming part of his army. This illustrates his widespread regional and potentially global influence, demonstrating his ability to compel obedience from significant nations.
  • End-Time Prophecy: For those who view this section as eschatological, this verse paints a vivid picture of the immense power and reach of the final world ruler, aligning with descriptions of universal authority found elsewhere in prophetic scripture. This figure's dominion over nations and resources sets the stage for the climactic events described in the subsequent verses.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "at his steps" (Hebrew: בְּמִצְעָדָיו, bəmiṣ‘ādāw) literally means "in his train" or "in his footsteps." It vividly conveys the idea of these nations following him, being subject to his authority, or accompanying him as part of his retinue or forces. It implies absolute subservience and control, rather than mere alliance.

Practical Application and Reflection

Daniel 11:43, whether viewed historically or eschatologically, underscores a fundamental truth: earthly power, wealth, and military might are transient and ultimately subject to God's sovereign plan. While the King of the North may wield immense power, his reign is temporary and ultimately serves a greater divine purpose. This verse reminds us of the temporary nature of worldly kingdoms and the ultimate triumph of God's eternal kingdom.

For believers, understanding these prophecies encourages vigilance and faith, reminding us that God remains in control, even amidst the rise and fall of powerful human figures. It also highlights the deceptive allure of worldly power and wealth, contrasting it with the lasting value of God's spiritual treasures. The extensive control described here aligns with other biblical accounts of a future world leader, such as those found in Revelation 13:7, which speaks of a beast given authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 12:3 (5 votes)

    With twelve hundred chariots, and threescore thousand horsemen: and the people [were] without number that came with him out of Egypt; the Lubims, the Sukkiims, and the Ethiopians.

  • Nahum 3:9 (4 votes)

    Ethiopia and Egypt [were] her strength, and [it was] infinite; Put and Lubim were thy helpers.

  • Judges 4:10 (2 votes)

    ¶ And Barak called Zebulun and Naphtali to Kedesh; and he went up with ten thousand men at his feet: and Deborah went up with him.

  • Ezekiel 30:4 (2 votes)

    And the sword shall come upon Egypt, and great pain shall be in Ethiopia, when the slain shall fall in Egypt, and they shall take away her multitude, and her foundations shall be broken down.

  • Ezekiel 30:5 (2 votes)

    Ethiopia, and Libya, and Lydia, and all the mingled people, and Chub, and the men of the land that is in league, shall fall with them by the sword.

  • Exodus 11:8 (2 votes)

    And all these thy servants shall come down unto me, and bow down themselves unto me, saying, Get thee out, and all the people that follow thee: and after that I will go out. And he went out from Pharaoh in a great anger.

  • Jeremiah 46:9 (2 votes)

    Come up, ye horses; and rage, ye chariots; and let the mighty men come forth; the Ethiopians and the Libyans, that handle the shield; and the Lydians, that handle [and] bend the bow.