Deeper Reflection
Daniel’s prophetic-theological vision in Daniel 11:2-45 gives a historical sketch of events during the reign of the superpowers Persia and Greece from 6th to 2nd century BC⁴⁶ : The Persian Empire from 6th to 4th century BC (Dan 11:2); the Greek Empire under Alexander the Great in 333-323 BC (Dan 11:3); the kingdoms of Greece after Alexander’s death from 4th to 2nd century BC – with particular focus on the Ptolemies in Egypt – “the kings of the South”, and the Seleucids in Syria – “the kings of the North” (Dan 11:4-20); and the reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes in 2nd century BC (Dan 11:21-45). What we need to take note here is not specific persons and events, but the nature and characteristics of persons and events as given in the text.The post-Alexander story begins with the rise in power and fight for power in the South Kingdom (v.5). Then the South Kingdom formed a marriage alliance with the North Kingdom – presumably, to pursue a relationship of peace (v.6a). There was a breakdown in the alliance, and that displeased the South Kingdom, who then attacked the North Kingdom (vv.6b-7). It is hard for fallen human nature to keep peace, but easy to use power. Sadly, this is also true for redeemed people of God in the church and at home. The strength of power is seen externally, but the strength for peace is internal. To keep peace there must be self-control. Peace in relationship is made possible only “by the blood of Christ” (Eph 2:13-15), and by humility, gentleness and patience developed through the power of the Holy Spirit (Eph 4:2-3).

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⁴⁶  Gordon Wong, Faithful to the End: The Message of Daniel for Life in the Real World (Genesis, 2006), 165