Commentary on Daniel 11:38

Contextual Overview

The book of Daniel is a rich tapestry of prophecies and visions that reveal God’s sovereignty over history and its unfolding. Chapter 11 is a pivotal portion of this book, detailing the conflicts between the kings of the North and South, symbolizing the tumultuous power struggles in the intertestamental period and beyond. In verse 38, we encounter a significant shift that highlights the character and pursuits of a particular king depicted throughout the chapter.

Verse Details

Daniel 11:38 (ESV): "But in his place he shall honor the god of fortresses. A god whom his fathers did not know he shall honor with gold and silver, with precious stones and costly gifts."

Commentary Insights

1. The Character of the King

This verse directly addresses the nature of the king referenced throughout the chapter, often interpreted as a representation of oppressive political power and blasphemy against God. Matthew Henry notes that this king will turn to a “god of fortresses,” indicating a reliance on military might rather than spiritual authority. This shift represents a departure from traditional worship and an embrace of materialism and power.

2. The "God of Fortresses"

Albert Barnes expands on the idea of the "god of fortresses," suggesting it symbolizes the strength and security that military power provides. This figure not only relies on earthly resources but actively promotes a form of idol worship that equates to surrendering divine sovereignty to the might of human armies. Henry observes that this reflects the tendencies in human nature to prioritize safety and control over faithfulness to God.

3. Innovations in Idolatry

Adam Clarke highlights the notion that this king introduces a new form of idolatry—a god unfamiliar to his ancestors. This suggests a break from the historical worship of Yahweh and a pivot towards a deity that embodies human strength and aggression. He mentions that the absence of adherence to the God of their forefathers indicates a broader moral and spiritual decline, whereby divine ordinances are forsaken for worldly gains.

4. Worship Through Material Wealth

The emphasis on honoring this god “with gold and silver, with precious stones and costly gifts” speaks volumes about the nature of this idolatry. According to Henry, this suggests that material wealth will become the currency of worship in place of genuine devotion. This idea resonates with contemporary conversations surrounding the use of financial resources in religion and the potential corruption stemming from the pursuit of wealth.

5. Theological Reflections

The theological implications of this verse suggest a warning against the uncritical adoption of worldly values in spiritual life. Barnes notes that the allure of external power and material prosperity can lead to a form of worship that is devoid of true connection to God, reflecting a perversion of religious fervor.

6. Application for Today

For pastors and theologians today, this commentary serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of elevating human systems above divine authority. It challenges modern believers to examine their allegiances and the extent to which they may allow cultural or political ideologies to shape their faith. Clarke urges readers to be vigilant in recognizing the spiritual conflicts within their own contexts, where the ‘god of fortresses’ may manifest in various forms such as nationalism or materialism.

7. Historical Interpretation

Historically, this verse has been taken to refer to figures such as Antiochus Epiphanes, who exemplified these traits during the Maccabean Revolt. The symbolic associations continue to resonate through succeeding empires, drawing a line between past and future. The continuing interest in the character and actions of such figures shows the perennial relevance of Daniel's prophecy to the human experience.

8. Concluding Thoughts

This commentary on Daniel 11:38 provides a rich exploration of the spiritual ramifications of forsaking God for material power and humanistic ideologies. The insights contributed by various public domain scholars bring clarity to the text while offering warnings and commitments relevant to both ancient and contemporary audiences. As followers of Christ navigate their faith in a complex world, the call to remember the God of their forefathers remains a central theme.