In short, Daniel 11:18 foretells a monarch’s swift turn to new lands and the immediate downfall he suffers at the hands of a greater power, demonstrating that no earthly empire can stand apart from God’s governing will.
“Then he will turn his face to the coastlands and capture many. But a commander will put a stop to his scorn against him; moreover, he will repay him for his scorn.” (v.18)
This verse continues Daniel’s prophetic description of a ruler—often identified as Antiochus III (the Great), who reigned over the Seleucid Empire from 223-187 BC—turning his attention to the coastal regions of the Mediterranean. The term coastlands describes areas along the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, places Antiochus sought to conquer in his quest to expand his influence. According to the prophecy, though this king would gain significant ground and capture many, the tables would turn when a commander (commonly understood to be a Roman general, Lucius Cornelius Scipio Asiaticus) intervened. Rome’s interference halted Antiochus’s threats, ultimately forcing him into humiliating peace terms and large tribute payments.
By stating he will repay him for his scorn, the prophecy highlights a swift reversal in fortunes. Antiochus, filled with triumph after previous victories, carried a bold and dismissive attitude toward other powers. Yet he met an adversary—Rome—whose influence was rising dramatically. This led to Antiochus’s defeat around 190 BC at the Battle of Magnesia, where Scipio Asiaticus prevailed and cemented Roman authority in the region. Historically, this fulfillment underscores God’s involvement in determining the boundaries and successes of kingdoms, affirming that rulers cannot truly boast against the unfolding purposes of the Lord (Proverbs 21:1).
All kingdoms rise and fall under God’s sovereign hand, and Daniel 11:18 displays how pride meets its match when confronted by divine authority, working through worldly events to accomplish the Almighty’s plan.
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Daniel 11:18 meaning
“Then he will turn his face to the coastlands and capture many. But a commander will put a stop to his scorn against him; moreover, he will repay him for his scorn.” (v.18)
This verse continues Daniel’s prophetic description of a ruler—often identified as Antiochus III (the Great), who reigned over the Seleucid Empire from 223-187 BC—turning his attention to the coastal regions of the Mediterranean. The term coastlands describes areas along the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, places Antiochus sought to conquer in his quest to expand his influence. According to the prophecy, though this king would gain significant ground and capture many, the tables would turn when a commander (commonly understood to be a Roman general, Lucius Cornelius Scipio Asiaticus) intervened. Rome’s interference halted Antiochus’s threats, ultimately forcing him into humiliating peace terms and large tribute payments.
By stating he will repay him for his scorn, the prophecy highlights a swift reversal in fortunes. Antiochus, filled with triumph after previous victories, carried a bold and dismissive attitude toward other powers. Yet he met an adversary—Rome—whose influence was rising dramatically. This led to Antiochus’s defeat around 190 BC at the Battle of Magnesia, where Scipio Asiaticus prevailed and cemented Roman authority in the region. Historically, this fulfillment underscores God’s involvement in determining the boundaries and successes of kingdoms, affirming that rulers cannot truly boast against the unfolding purposes of the Lord (Proverbs 21:1).
All kingdoms rise and fall under God’s sovereign hand, and Daniel 11:18 displays how pride meets its match when confronted by divine authority, working through worldly events to accomplish the Almighty’s plan.