The ruler’s expansion into Egypt exemplifies the temporary triumph of earthly power under God’s sovereign plan.
Then he will stretch out his hand against other countries, and the land of Egypt will not escape (Daniel 11:42). This passage continues the prophetic depiction of a powerful ruler—often interpreted as the “king of the North”—expanding his territory by force. Egypt, situated in the northeastern corner of Africa with access to the Nile River and vital trade routes, becomes an enticing target in this verse.
Historically, many scholars associate these events with Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who ruled the Seleucid Empire from 175 BC to 164 BC and engaged in multiple intrigues and conflicts to strengthen his power. As part of his ongoing aggression, he challenged the Ptolemaic kingdom rooted in Egypt, seeking to benefit from its resources and strategic position. In need of funds and determined to extend his sphere of influence, Antiochus IV tried to subdue Egypt, reflecting this prophecy’s assertion that “the land of Egypt will not escape.” His campaigns became one more example of the imperial struggles outlined throughout Daniel 11.
Spiritually, this verse foreshadows the relentless nature of worldly rulers who seize whatever they can for personal gain, reminding believers that human empires often rise through violence yet inevitably fall under God’s providential hand (Psalm 2:1-4). The mention of Egypt is also a symbolic echo of past biblical accounts, where the Lord demonstrated His supremacy over even the mightiest nations (Exodus 7-14). God’s people can take comfort in His ultimate authority, since He works through history’s conflicts to accomplish His purposes.
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Daniel 11:42 meaning
Then he will stretch out his hand against other countries, and the land of Egypt will not escape (Daniel 11:42). This passage continues the prophetic depiction of a powerful ruler—often interpreted as the “king of the North”—expanding his territory by force. Egypt, situated in the northeastern corner of Africa with access to the Nile River and vital trade routes, becomes an enticing target in this verse.
Historically, many scholars associate these events with Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who ruled the Seleucid Empire from 175 BC to 164 BC and engaged in multiple intrigues and conflicts to strengthen his power. As part of his ongoing aggression, he challenged the Ptolemaic kingdom rooted in Egypt, seeking to benefit from its resources and strategic position. In need of funds and determined to extend his sphere of influence, Antiochus IV tried to subdue Egypt, reflecting this prophecy’s assertion that “the land of Egypt will not escape.” His campaigns became one more example of the imperial struggles outlined throughout Daniel 11.
Spiritually, this verse foreshadows the relentless nature of worldly rulers who seize whatever they can for personal gain, reminding believers that human empires often rise through violence yet inevitably fall under God’s providential hand (Psalm 2:1-4). The mention of Egypt is also a symbolic echo of past biblical accounts, where the Lord demonstrated His supremacy over even the mightiest nations (Exodus 7-14). God’s people can take comfort in His ultimate authority, since He works through history’s conflicts to accomplish His purposes.