This verse foretells a betrayal and defeat that underscores the theme of political intrigue and divine sovereignty.
“Those who eat his choice food will destroy him, and his army will overflow, but many will fall down slain.” (v.26) This verse depicts an internal betrayal that leads to the downfall of a prominent ruler. The phrase “Those who eat his choice food will destroy him” (v.26) implies that some of the ruler’s closest allies—those who share in his provisions—will turn against him. Historically, Daniel 11 is widely understood to describe the power struggles between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic empires, in the region of modern-day Middle East, following the conquests of Alexander the Great (356 - 323 BC). While the verse does not explicitly name the individuals involved, it illustrates the treachery and the precarious nature of political alliances in those times.
Furthermore, “his army will overflow” (v.26) suggests a flood-like defeat, in which the king’s forces collapse under the weight of betrayal and opposing armies. The term “overflow” often indicates a swift and devastating takeover, reminiscent of a catastrophic flood that cannot be contained. This scenario points to the fragility of earthly power structures. Instances of betrayal among a king’s intimates occur elsewhere in Scripture, prompting a parallel to Judas’s betrayal of Jesus, wherein a close companion turns on the leader (Luke 22:47‑48).
Lastly, “but many will fall down slain” (v.26) underlines the severity of the conflict. This prophecy indicates widespread loss of life, demonstrating the consequences of broken trust and violent ambition. In the broader context of Daniel’s prophecies, God’s sovereignty over political affairs shines through: kingdoms may rise and fall, but the Lord remains in control Daniel 2:21). Despite the looming destruction, the entire narrative reinforces the everlasting nature of God’s kingdom and His overarching plan for redemption—a truth ultimately fulfilled in Christ (Matthew 24:14).
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Daniel 11:26 meaning
“Those who eat his choice food will destroy him, and his army will overflow, but many will fall down slain.” (v.26) This verse depicts an internal betrayal that leads to the downfall of a prominent ruler. The phrase “Those who eat his choice food will destroy him” (v.26) implies that some of the ruler’s closest allies—those who share in his provisions—will turn against him. Historically, Daniel 11 is widely understood to describe the power struggles between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic empires, in the region of modern-day Middle East, following the conquests of Alexander the Great (356 - 323 BC). While the verse does not explicitly name the individuals involved, it illustrates the treachery and the precarious nature of political alliances in those times.
Furthermore, “his army will overflow” (v.26) suggests a flood-like defeat, in which the king’s forces collapse under the weight of betrayal and opposing armies. The term “overflow” often indicates a swift and devastating takeover, reminiscent of a catastrophic flood that cannot be contained. This scenario points to the fragility of earthly power structures. Instances of betrayal among a king’s intimates occur elsewhere in Scripture, prompting a parallel to Judas’s betrayal of Jesus, wherein a close companion turns on the leader (Luke 22:47‑48).
Lastly, “but many will fall down slain” (v.26) underlines the severity of the conflict. This prophecy indicates widespread loss of life, demonstrating the consequences of broken trust and violent ambition. In the broader context of Daniel’s prophecies, God’s sovereignty over political affairs shines through: kingdoms may rise and fall, but the Lord remains in control Daniel 2:21). Despite the looming destruction, the entire narrative reinforces the everlasting nature of God’s kingdom and His overarching plan for redemption—a truth ultimately fulfilled in Christ (Matthew 24:14).