Daniel 11:38 – “Instead of them, he will honor a god of fortresses; a god unknown to his ancestors he will honor with gold and silver, with precious stones and costly gifts.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Daniel 11:38 describes the actions of a ruler who rejects the gods traditionally worshiped by his ancestors and instead elevates a “god of fortresses.” This likely symbolizes his reliance on military power and his worship of strength and might rather than spiritual truths. The ruler dedicates his wealth to this “god,” offering extravagant gifts such as gold, silver, and precious stones.
This verse highlights the ruler’s materialistic and power-driven mindset, showing his devotion to human achievements and military strength rather than to any higher spiritual authority.
Historical Context
This passage is often associated with Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Seleucid ruler, who prioritized military conquest and relied heavily on fortifications and armed strength to secure his rule. Antiochus imposed Greek culture and religion, deviating from traditional worship practices.
Beyond Antiochus, this verse also points to a future figure, often identified as the Antichrist, who will glorify human power and wealth above spiritual or moral considerations. The “god of fortresses” reflects an ideology of self-reliance and the glorification of human achievement.
Theological Implications
Daniel 11:38 warns against the idolatry of power, wealth, and self-sufficiency. The ruler’s devotion to the “god of fortresses” represents humanity’s tendency to trust in material resources and human strength rather than in God. This misplaced trust ultimately leads to destruction, as no human power can stand against God’s sovereignty.
The verse also highlights the spiritual emptiness of materialism. Even the wealth and power symbolized by gold, silver, and precious stones cannot satisfy the human heart or replace the true worship of God.
Literary Analysis
The verse contrasts the ruler’s rejection of traditional gods with his worship of a “god of fortresses.” The imagery of gold, silver, and costly gifts emphasizes his materialism and misplaced priorities. The phrase “a god unknown to his ancestors” underscores the ruler’s departure from spiritual heritage, reflecting his complete devotion to worldly power.
This verse fits into the broader narrative of Daniel 11, which highlights the arrogance and rebellion of earthly rulers and their ultimate downfall in the face of God’s authority.
Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 20:7: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”
- Proverbs 18:10-11: “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it a wall too high to scale.”
- Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, Daniel 11:38 is a warning against placing trust in material wealth, human power, or military strength. It challenges believers to examine their priorities and ensure that their ultimate trust and devotion are directed toward God rather than worldly resources.
The verse also encourages Christians to resist the idolatry of power and materialism that is prevalent in today’s culture. True security and satisfaction come only from a relationship with God, not from wealth or human achievements.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love by warning His people against misplaced trust and idolatry. By revealing the futility of relying on human strength and wealth, God calls His people back to a relationship with Him, where true security and hope are found.
God’s love is also evident in His patience, as He allows people the opportunity to turn from their misplaced devotion and return to Him. His faithfulness contrasts with the fleeting nature of human power and material wealth.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Daniel 11:38 contrasts the ruler’s worship of power and wealth with Jesus Christ’s humility and dependence on God. While the ruler sought to exalt himself through materialism and military strength, Jesus taught the importance of storing up treasures in heaven and trusting in God’s provision (Matthew 6:33).
Jesus is the ultimate “fortress” for believers, providing protection, security, and hope that no human power or wealth can offer (Psalm 18:2). His life and sacrifice demonstrate the futility of worldly pursuits and the surpassing value of knowing and following God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge you to examine where you place your trust—in God or in worldly resources?
- What does this passage teach you about the dangers of idolizing power, wealth, or materialism?
- How can you focus on building a relationship with God rather than pursuing worldly success?
- In what ways does Jesus’ example of humility and reliance on God inspire you to live differently?
- How can you encourage others to place their trust in God rather than in the fleeting security of wealth or human strength?