Prophecy Fulfilled: Rise and Fall of Alexander the Great and Rise of Antiochus IV Epiphanes

One of the most startlingly accurate Bible prophecies found in scripture is about the rise and fall of Alexander the Great, his military campaigns, his sudden death, his replacement by his four generals, and the rise and fall of Antiochus IV Epiphanes.

These prophecies are mainly found in the book of Daniel, however Daniel never lived to see them come to pass, these were fulfilled almost 200 years after Daniel lived. The title of this article referencing Alexander, but really it's about multiple people, Alexander, the fall of Persia and Antiochus IV Epiphanes - one evil evil person.

As said before in other articles, the most remarkable aspects of the Bible distinguishing it from all other historical books and writings are its record of fulfilled prophecies. These fulfilled prophecies provide us with concrete evidence that God has indeed communicated to us, predicting the future with spot on accuracy.

God uses prophecy to capture our attention and cause us to take the rest of His words seriously.

At the end of the Book of Daniel, Daniel is told that his visions and experiences would make no sense to him in his own lifetime, but they would be important to generations in the future, and especially in the last days.

Having the ability today to look back at history, we can see the visions meaning with astonishment. Daniels visions prophesied of the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, the first coming of Jesus during "the passion week" as he presented Himself to Jerusalem as the Messianic Son of David, it prophesied of Jesus death and resurrection, it prophesied of the kingdoms that would rule up until the time of Jesus' first coming. It also prophesied of the things all that wicked king Antiochus IV Epiphanes would do to the second temple prior to when Jesus would come, which are remembered by the Jews each year during the celebration of Hanukah.

The Rise of Alexander

Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon's Dream

*Alexander the Great is in Daniel 2:32, and Daniel 2:39

In Daniel 2, King Nebuchadnezzar (King of Babylon, 605 BCE-562 BCE) was given by God visions while he was in bed, and a terrifying dream. This vision troubled him so much that the following morning he called all his wise men, his astrologers and soothe-sayers diviners and gave them a command - if they couldn't tell him his dream and the interpretation without him telling them the dream, they would all be put to death, he wanted to be 100% sure they weren't making up the interpretation.

Daniel and his three friends who were among the exiles from Judea, and forced to be advisers as part of the kings wise men understood the danger that they were in and cried out to God for help, that He would reveal the kings dream to them and the interpretation. God revealed the dream to Daniel in a dream of his own, and the interpretation.

Daniel was brought before the King and successfully revealed the Kings dream, and its interpretation. God had revealed the future to Nebuchadnezzar, while laying in bed that night Nebuchadnezzar's thoughts had turned to what would be the future of his kingdom after he were to die. That night in his dream, God showed the future to him using symbolisms, and revealed the interpretation through Daniel. God showed Nebuchadnezzar a great and mighty statue:

Daniel 2:31-35 NIV

'“Your Majesty looked, and there before you stood a large statue—an enormous, dazzling statue, awesome in appearance. The head of the statue was made of pure gold, its chest and arms of silver, its belly and thighs of bronze, its legs of iron, its feet partly of iron and partly of baked clay. While you were watching, a rock was cut out, but not by human hands. It struck the statue on its feet of iron and clay and smashed them. Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver and the gold were all broken to pieces and became like chaff on a threshing floor in the summer. The wind swept them away without leaving a trace. But the rock that struck the statue became a huge mountain and filled the whole earth. '

Daniel then revealed the meaning of the dream

Daniel 2:37-45 NIV

'Your Majesty, you are the king of kings. The God of heaven has given you dominion and power and might and glory; in your hands he has placed all mankind and the beasts of the field and the birds in the sky. Wherever they live, he has made you ruler over them all. You are that head of gold. “After you, another kingdom will arise, inferior to yours. Next, a third kingdom, one of bronze, will rule over the whole earth. Finally, there will be a fourth kingdom, strong as iron—for iron breaks and smashes everything—and as iron breaks things to pieces, so it will crush and break all the others. Just as you saw that the feet and toes were partly of baked clay and partly of iron, so this will be a divided kingdom; yet it will have some of the strength of iron in it, even as you saw iron mixed with clay. As the toes were partly iron and partly clay, so this kingdom will be partly strong and partly brittle. And just as you saw the iron mixed with baked clay, so the people will be a mixture and will not remain united, any more than iron mixes with clay. “In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever. This is the meaning of the vision of the rock cut out of a mountain, but not by human hands—a rock that broke the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver and the gold to pieces. “The great God has shown the king what will take place in the future. The dream is true and its interpretation is trustworthy.” '

This shocked King Nebuchadnezzar so badly that the king fell prostrate before Daniel and promoted him to be the governor of the province of Babylon, a position he held for the rest of Nebuchadnezzars life, and extended into the time after when the Medes and Persians overthrew Babylon.

After Nebuchadnezzar, there was indeed four more kingdoms ruling over Babylon up until its final abandonment in the 7th century CE.

The dream only covered the empires that conquered Babylon. First came the Medo-Persian empire who conquered Babylon by draining the Euphrates river. Then came the Greeks, Alexander the great marked the start of the hellenistic period, he conquered the Persians outside modern Mosul, and marched to Babylon where he was welcome as a liberator, the Babylonians hated the Persians. This was the last military victory that ever brought Babylon under its dominion until the time of Islam.

The fourth kingdom in Nebuchadnezzars dream was described as different than the others, it was not a political conquest, it was a religious one. The Muslim conquest of Mesopotamia. Just as the prophetic dream had stated.

Nebuchadnezzar had seen four kingdoms, his own the head of gold, the silver as the Medo-Persians, the bronze as Alexander the Great (Alexanders four generals after him marked the Hellenistic period), and then finally the end of Babylon dwindled all the way down to when eventually the Islamic conquest came. Daniel described this last kingdom as a kingdom that breaks everything to pieces and crushes all other kingdoms under it.

Nebuchadnezzar was told that the end of the Islamic kingdom would be that it would not be able to remain united (and thats precisely how the Middle East is today). However, there is a final Kingdom after the Islamic influence over that region that God says He Himself will setup that will continue on forever. Jesus is the stone that was cut out from the mountain in the dream. As the Bible says from cover to cover, at Jesus' return He will crush all kingdoms under His feet, He is not coming back as a savior meek and mild, according to scripture He comes back as King of Kings, having received all power and all authority in heaven and on earth.

Alexander the Greats kingdom was the belly and thighs of bronze in the vision.

The key important part is that the entire procession was completely accurate to history, Babylon continued all the way to the Islamic conquest.

If I wrote down 2000 years ago that Rome would continue through two kingdoms before being trampled and ceasing to be a city, that wouldn't matter much in your generation, but in generations in the future if you had any credibility for other reasons people would keep it on their radar. Rome today is a bustling city, tourists flock there from all over the world - it is absolutely not a dead city. But Babylon is most certainly trampled under foot and crushed, just like Nebuchadnezzars dream, and what God supernaturally gave Daniel as prophecy.

Daniels Dream of Four Beasts

*Alexander the Great is in Daniel 7:6

In Daniel 7, Daniel records a dream that terrified and troubled him, at the end of Daniels dream an angel speaks to him, giving him the interpretation - but he still did not understand the meaning.

(Context)

By Daniel 7, time had already progressed about 40 years forward from Daniel 2. Daniel had held senior political positions in the Babylonian Empire under 3 Babylonian kings (Nebuchadnezzar, Nabonidus, and Belshazzar), God used him during much of that time to protect the Jewish people while they were in exile (for a total of 70 years).

The context of Daniels dream in Daniel 7 the first year of the last Babylonian King. As a side note, the chapters in the book of Daniel are arranged by theme, not chronological order. Reading carefully you would notice that Daniel 6 would come after Daniel 8 chronologically.

(The 4 Beasts)

Daniel dreams of a great ocean, and great wind stirred up the ocean, and coming up out of the sea he saw four beasts.

Beast 1 - Daniel 7:4 NIV

'“The first was like a lion, and it had the wings of an eagle. I watched until its wings were torn off and it was lifted from the ground so that it stood on two feet like a human being, and the mind of a human was given to it. '

Beast 2 - Daniel 7:5 NIV

'“And there before me was a second beast, which looked like a bear. It was raised up on one of its sides, and it had three ribs in its mouth between its teeth. It was told, ‘Get up and eat your fill of flesh!’ '

Beast 3 - Daniel 7:6 NIV

'“After that, I looked, and there before me was another beast, one that looked like a leopard. And on its back it had four wings like those of a bird. This beast had four heads, and it was given authority to rule. '

Beast 4 - Daniel 7:7 NIV

'“After that, in my vision at night I looked, and there before me was a fourth beast—terrifying and frightening and very powerful. It had large iron teeth; it crushed and devoured its victims and trampled underfoot whatever was left. It was different from all the former beasts, and it had ten horns. '

At the end of Daniels vision, an angel speaks to Daniel and says to him:

'‘The four great beasts are four kings that will rise from the earth. But the holy people of the Most High will receive the kingdom and will possess it forever—yes, for ever and ever.’ ' - Daniel 7:17-18 NIV

So just like Nebuchadnezzars dream, the vision concerns four kingdoms.

There were four conquering empires that came in after the Babylonians, who were the ruling power during the time of Daniels vision.

*Alexander the Great and his generals are characterized by the Leopard with four wings and four heads

The Lion with Eagles Wings

The lion with eagles wings is the Babylonian Empire, the ancient Middle East was covered in lions, they have since become extinct in the area. Lions are depicted all over Babylon with eagles wings in sculptures. The Babylonian empire overtook the Middle East quickly, until Nebuchadnezzar lost his mind.

The Wings having been plucked off the lion and standing on its feet like a man fully depicts what took place with Nebuchadnezzar. He had lost his mind and for a season, and lived in the open field like a wild animal until his mind returned. Upon his sanity returning to him his kingdom was returned to him until he eventually passed away, but it was no longer marked by large offensive military campaigns after that time, only Nebuchadnezzar was the driving force behind the kingdoms expansion, expansion ended with Nebuchadnezzar.

The Bear with Ribs in its Mouth

The bear with ribs in its mouth and lifted up to one side, told to arise and devour much flesh is the Kingdom of the Medes and the Persians. The Medes and Persians interestingly conquered three empires - the Babylonians, the Lydians (modern day Turkey), and the Egyptians.

The Medo-Persian empire was a massive and powerful empire, characterized well by a bear, a very powerful creature. The Medes and Persians only pushed mainly one direction - towards the west, so "being lifted up on one side" fits very well.

The conquest of the Babylonians at the Battle of Opis was a bloody one, Cyrus the Great crushed the Babylonians near the Tigris river. After this fight he conducted a Siege of Babylon, but the capture of the city of Babylon came through strategic diversion of the Euphrates river rather than a bloody siege.

The conquest of the Lydians was a siege of two major battles, the Battle of Thymbra, and the Siege of Sardis. Sardis was the capital and held significant wealth. Cyrus the great conquered King Croesus in a strategic victory.

The conquest of the Egyptians, the two major battles for Egypt were conducted by the son of Cyrus, Cambyses II. Cambyses led an army to Pelusium, where he used a unique strategy by placing cats and other animals sacred to the Egyptians on the front lines, making the Egyptians hesitate while fighting. The bloodiest battle was the Siege of Memphis, Egypts capital at the time. The city was besieged and eventually fell to the Persians.

The Fall of Alexander

The Leopard with Four Wings and Four Heads

The leopard was an animal that used to roam ancient Greece, but today is extinct. Alexanders army had four generals, after Alexander died suddenly around 30 years old, the Greek Empire was split into four parts, and has been called the Hellenistic Empire.

Alexander was a superb and skilled commander, he would outsmart his enemies and used a military formation call the Macedonian Phalanx. Alexander led his battles from the front lines and inspired his armies with his own bravery earning their loyalty and respect.

When Alexander died at age 32 of a fever in Babylon - basically of exhaustion, he famously was asked "who will succeed you?", His response was classic Alexander, "To the strongest".

His ambiguous response led to conflict and confusion among his generals, which led to a power struggle and the empire being split into four "hellenistic" (greek) kingdoms - (four wings, and four heads). One for each general.

Daniel's Open Eyed Vision

The Rise of Antiochus IV Epiphanes

The story of Antiochus Epiphanes is one most Christians are not very familiar with, however nearly every observant Jewish person is. This is part of the backdrop for the celebration of Hanukkah every single year in December, a holiday that the Bible says even Jesus celebrated.

Hanukkah is the Hebrew word for "dedication", which is marked by lighting of candles in remembrance of a miracle God did when the Jews regained the Temple in Jerusalem from the Seleucid Greeks under Antiochus.

A menorah candle is lit for every day that God kept the temple menorah lit - when the priests did not have enough oil for the temple it took 8 days to prepare enough oil, but God miraculously caused the menorah to burn for 8 days - long enough for the priests to prepare the special temple oil in accordance with the book of Leviticus.

To celebrate, on each night of Hanukkah an additional candle is lit until all eight candles are lit on the final night.

As I said, Hanukkah is even mentioned in the Gospel of John

'Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomon’s Colonnade. ' - John 10:22-23 NIV

If you didn't put two and two together yet, Jesus was Jewish, He is the Jewish Messiah, the one all the Jewish prophets foretold of. He was born a Jew, He lived as a Jew, and died on a Roman cross with the words "King of the Jews" written in Hebrew (along with Aramaic, Greek and Latin) above his head. He was raised from the dead 3 days later, just as the jewish prophets foretold and were seen by over 500 of his jewish disciples, eating with them, teaching them and spending time with them for the span of 40 days before he ascended into the clouds before their very eyes, after which He sent out 11 of his disciples to testify as eye witnesses of his entire life and ministry, and to establish churches not only in Judea, but Samaria and the ends of the earth as well that all nations might repent and come to know the God of Israel.

He fulfilled the first part of the jewish scriptures about the Messiah, He's the only one qualified to fulfill the last remaining prophecies, where a Jewish man and Prophet from the lineage of King David will sit as King ruling over the entire earth, ushering in a time of peace forever.

Daniel 8 - The Goat

The Goat Prophecy Part 1

Two years later after the first dream that Daniel had, Daniel had an open vision. He found himself in the region of Shushan (also known as Susa in western Iran), in the province of Elam, which became the capital of the Persian Empire. Daniel saw a ram with two horns, and one horn was raised up above the other, and the higher one came up last (Daniel 8:1-3).

The ram he saw was pushing westward, northward, and southward, no animal could withstand him and none could deliver from his hand, the ram did according to its own will and became great. (Daniel 8:4)

As Daniel was watching the ram, suddenly he saw a male goat coming from the west, moving across the surface of whole earth without even touching the ground, the goat had a "notable" horn between its eyes. (Daniel 8:5)

Having come to the ram with two horns, the goat ran at the ram with furious power, moved with rage against him and he attacked the ram, breaking his two horns. The ram had no power to withstand the goat. The goat cast the ram to the ground and trampled him, no one could deliver the ram from his hands. (Daniel 8:6-7)

After this, the male goat grew very great, when he became strong the large horn was broken, but in place of it grew four notable ones.

Explanation - Prophecy Fulfilled

So yet again in this vision Daniel is seeing the Persian Empire depicted as a Ram with one horn raised up above the other (the Medes and the Persians, the Persians were greater than the Median part), standing in location of the future capital of the Persian Empire, this made no sense to Daniel because the Persian Empire and Greek Empires literally had not come yet!

Daniel is told by the Angel Gabriel that this prophecy is about the Persians and the Greeks

So Daniel sees the ram pushing everywhere except east, which is what we spoke about with "The Bear with Ribs in its Mouth". Persia was pushing southward Westward to Babylon, Northward to Lydia, and Southward to Egypt (in that order).

Then Daniel sees a goat with a notable horn coming from the west, running at the ram with such furious rage and power that it destroys the ram and tramples it under its feet, breaking the rams horns.

Alexander the great defeated the Persian Empire in Guagamela (331 BCE). The Battle of Gaugamela took place near the modern-day city of Mosul in Iraq. Despite being outnumbered, Alexander's strategic brilliance and the disciplined Macedonian phalanx led to a crushing defeat of the Persian forces under King Darius III. This victory opened the way for Alexander to capture key Persian cities, including Susa, and eventually the Persian capitals of Persepolis, and Pasargadae.

Susa was one of the major administrative capitals of the Persian Empire. Capturing Susa meant gaining control over a key center of Persian administration and wealth. When Alexander captured Susa in 331 BCE, he seized vast amounts of treasure. It is reported that he found 50,000 talents of silver, which significantly boosted his war chest and helped finance his subsequent campaigns.

In the same year - following his decisive victory at the Battle of Gaugamela on October 1, 331 BCE. After the battle, Alexander's forces marched south to Babylon, which surrendered without resistance. The capture of Babylon was a significant milestone in Alexander's campaign to conquer the Persian Empire, but was also the place of his death - "when he became strong the large horn was broken...".

Daniels vision is generally placed around 553-539 BCE - which is almost 200 years before prophecy was fulfilled.

If you are from the west, chances are whenever you hear of Alexander - he is called "Alexander the great". If you are from the middle east, he is called "Alexander the Two Horned One", because he broke the two horns of the Persian Empire - the Medes and Persians. However among the Persians he is called "Alexander the Accursed". This name caught on among Persians after he burned the city of Persepolis - the ceremonial capital. Alexander brought significant destruction to the Persian Empire.

Daniel 8 - One Little Horn

The Goat Prophecy Part 2

Daniel 8:8 NIV

'The goat became very great, but at the height of its power the large horn was broken off, and in its place four prominent horns grew up toward the four winds of heaven. '

In Alexanders place, in the year 331 BCE - his Kingdom was split into four major divisions under four of his generals (initially there was 5, but one did not last, and was folded into the others).

From Syria down through Egypt and into Libya - General Ptolemy I Soter gained rule over Israel and Judea and founded the Ptolemaic Dynasty in Alexandria Egypt which ruled until the Roman conquest

Mesopotamia and the Eastern Territories - were placed under General Seleucus I Nicator who established the Seleucid Empire, controlling a vast region including Mesopotamia, Persia, and parts of India

Macedonia and Greece - were placed under General Cassander who established the Antipatrid dynasty

Thrace and Asia Minor - were placed under General Lysimachus

Daniel 8:9 NIV

'Out of one of them came another horn, which started small but grew in power to the south and to the east and toward the Beautiful Land. '

Around 108 years later, at 18 years old, Antiochus III the Great inherited a fragmented and weakened empire which was initially given to Seleucus I Nicator, the General who was given Mesopotamia and the Eastern Territories. Antiochus III eventually began expanding and consolidated his empire, fighting wars against the descendent of the Ptolomaic Dynasty, fighting the Battle of Panium in 198 BCE against Ptolemy V Epiphanes.

Antiochas III won the battle at the headwaters to the Jordan river. Antiochus III achieved a decisive victory at Panium, effectively ending Ptolemaic control over Judea and the surrounding regions. The defeat of the Ptolemaic forces allowed Antiochus III to annex these territories into the Seleucid Empire, significantly expanding his realm.

Daniel 8:10-11 NIV

'It grew until it reached the host of the heavens, and it threw some of the starry host down to the earth and trampled on them. It set itself up to be as great as the commander of the army of the Lord; it took away the daily sacrifice from the Lord , and his sanctuary was thrown down. '

Antiochus IV Epiphanes was born around 215 BCE to King Antiochus III the Great and Queen Laodice. Following the defeat of Antiochus III by Rome at the Battle of Magnesia in 190 BCE, the Treaty of Apamea in 188 BCE stipulated that Antiochus IV (then known as Mithridates) be taken as a political hostage to Rome. He remained in Rome for several years, during which he became familiar with Roman customs and politics.

In 175 BCE, Antiochus IV was exchanged for his nephew Demetrius I Soter, who was sent to Rome as a hostage in his place. Upon his return, Antiochus IV found that his brother, Seleucus IV Philopator, was the reigning king of the Seleucid Empire. In 175 BCE, Seleucus IV was assassinated by Heliodorus, his chief minister, who sought to usurp the throne. The assassination created a power vacuum and political instability within the empire.

Heliodorus attempted to take control, but Antiochus IV, with the support of influential allies managed to overthrow him. Antiochus IV declared himself king, taking the throne under the title Antiochus IV Epiphanes (meaning: "God Manifest").

Antiochus IV quickly consolidated his power by securing the loyalty of key military and political figures within the empire. He also used his experience and connections from his time in Rome to strengthen his position.

Antiochus IV is known for his vigorous promotion of Hellenistic culture and policies aimed at unifying his diverse empire under Greek customs and religion. This included the imposing of Hellenistic practices in Jerusalem, leading to significant tensions with the Jewish population.

Daniel 8:12 NIV

'Because of rebellion, the Lord’s people and the daily sacrifice were given over to it. It prospered in everything it did, and truth was thrown to the ground. '

In 175 BCE, Antiochus IV deposed the legitimate high priest, Onias III, and replaced him with his brother Jason, who had offered a large sum of money for the position. Jason was a Hellenized Jew who promoted Greek customs and established a gymnasium in Jerusalem, which became a center for Hellenistic education and practices.

In 171 BCE, Menelaus, another Hellenized Jew, outbid Jason for the high priesthood and was appointed by Antiochus IV. Menelaus furthered the Hellenistic agenda and was perceived as corrupt and oppressive by many Jews, leading to further resentment.

Antiochus IV issued decrees that banned key aspects of Jewish religious practice, including circumcision, Sabbath observance, and dietary laws. These bans were direct attacks on Jewish identity and faith, causing widespread outrage among the Jews.

In 167 BCE, Antiochus IV Epiphanes ordered the erection of a statue of Zeus Olympios in the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Antiochus mandated that sacrifices, including pigs (which are unclean animals in Judaism), be made on this altar. This act was a direct affront to Jewish religious laws and beliefs. This act of desecration, was known as the "abomination of desolation," and was extremely egregious and sparked fierce resistance.

By installing a statue of Zeus and forcing pagan sacrifices in the temple, Antiochus IV not only desecrated this sacred space but also attempted to erase Jewish religious identity.

Obviously we are still covering Daniel 8, but this is entire event is prophesied in Daniel 11 (nearly 300 years before Antiochus IV Epiphanes).

Daniel 11:31-32 NIV

'“His armed forces will rise up to desecrate the temple fortress and will abolish the daily sacrifice. Then they will set up the abomination that causes desolation. With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him. '

Daniel 8:13-14 NIV

'Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to him, “How long will it take for the vision to be fulfilled—the vision concerning the daily sacrifice, the rebellion that causes desolation, the surrender of the sanctuary and the trampling underfoot of the Lord’s people?” He said to me, “It will take 2,300 evenings and mornings; then the sanctuary will be reconsecrated.” '

The desecration of the temple and the enforcement of Hellenistic practices triggered the Maccabean Revolt. The revolt was led by the Hasmonean family - a line of Levitical temple priests, starting with Mattathias and later his son Judas Maccabeus.

The Maccabeans led a successful campaign against the Seleucid forces, culminating in the recapture of Jerusalem and the purification and rededication of the temple in 164 BCE. A total of roughly 3 years.

According to the prophecy, it would be 2300 evenings and mornings, on a lunar calendar this is also roughly 3 years. Remember the Bible uses a Lunar calendar of years, a lunar year is only roughly 354 days.

12 lunar months × 29.53 days per month = 354.36 days

Take 2300 evenings and mornings and divide the number of evenings and mornings by two to get the total number of days

2300 evenings and mornings / 2 = 1150 days

1150 days / 354.36 lunar days in a year = 3.25 years

This matches the dates we have for the desecration of the temple, and the date the temple was cleansed very very well. We only know the year the Idol was setup in the temple, not the exact date, however we do have the exact date for when it was cleansed.

1 Maccabees 1:54 mentions that the "abomination of desolation" was set up on the 15th day of the month Kislev in the 145th year of the Seleucid era, which corresponds to December 167 BCE.

In Daniels vision, one who looked like a man tells the Angel Gabriel to give Daniel the interpretation of the vision where he is flat out told this is about all the specific nations, kings and Kingdoms we have covered.

Daniel 8:15-27 NIV

'While I, Daniel, was watching the vision and trying to understand it, there before me stood one who looked like a man. And I heard a man’s voice from the Ulai calling, “Gabriel, tell this man the meaning of the vision.” As he came near the place where I was standing, I was terrified and fell prostrate. “Son of man,” he said to me, “understand that the vision concerns the time of the end.” While he was speaking to me, I was in a deep sleep, with my face to the ground. Then he touched me and raised me to my feet. He said: “I am going to tell you what will happen later in the time of wrath, because the vision concerns the appointed time of the end. The two-horned ram that you saw represents the kings of Media and Persia. The shaggy goat is the king of Greece, and the large horn between its eyes is the first king. The four horns that replaced the one that was broken off represent four kingdoms that will emerge from his nation but will not have the same power. “In the latter part of their reign, when rebels have become completely wicked, a fierce-looking king, a master of intrigue, will arise. He will become very strong, but not by his own power. He will cause astounding devastation and will succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy those who are mighty, the holy people. He will cause deceit to prosper, and he will consider himself superior. When they feel secure, he will destroy many and take his stand against the Prince of princes. Yet he will be destroyed, but not by human power. “The vision of the evenings and mornings that has been given you is true, but seal up the vision, for it concerns the distant future.” I, Daniel, was worn out. I lay exhausted for several days. Then I got up and went about the king’s business. I was appalled by the vision; it was beyond understanding.'

What would you do if you saw the future 200-300 years in advanced? You would be exactly like Daniel was! Overwhelmed and completely undone.

The reason its referred to the "Time of the End" is because this is referring to the time of the nations when God would establish the Kingdom of God on the earth, it would earmark the final chapter of history under the Roman empire where God would send Jesus - the temple would be destroyed, and the New Covenant would be implemented.

The story of Antiochus IV Epiphanes and the Maccabees is the story of how the Roman empire came into authority over Jerusalem, in fulfillment of another prophecy in Daniel 9.

Daniel 11 - Daniels Angelic Visitation

Further Clarity on the Future of Persia, Greece, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Temple and the Jews

Daniel 10 and 11 are all building up to describe a climax when the people of Israel, the Jews would experience a time of great trial, the temple would be overthrown and the Levitical priesthood would be corrupted. God provides an overview of history to Daniel to prepare His people so they would stand strong in the midst of it.

In Daniel 10, during the time of King Cyrus of Persia - Daniel was given a vision concerning a great war that would come against the people of Israel, and the understanding was given to him in a vision. Daniel never writes down this vision, but he mourned for three weeks.

After three weeks of this, Daniel one day was out on the banks of the Tigris river and an Angel stood before him, Daniel was able to see him but those around him couldn't, however those around him were overwhelmed with terror and ran hiding themselves.

After the Angel described a spiritual war taking place behind the scenes, the Angel then describes to Daniel what will happen to his people in the future.

Daniel 11:2 NIV

'“Now then, I tell you the truth: Three more kings will arise in Persia, and then a fourth, who will be far richer than all the others. When he has gained power by his wealth, he will stir up everyone against the kingdom of Greece. '

After King Cyrus the Great would come three more kings before the Persians began attacking the Greeks.

Cyrus the Great (Cyrus II) (559-530 BCE)

Cambyses II (530-522 BCE) - Son of Cyrus the Great

Bardiya (Smerdis) (522 BCE) - Son of Cyrus the Great, his rule was short, and he is sometimes considered an imposter.

After Bardiya came Darius the Great:

Darius I (Darius the Great) (522-486 BCE) - A distant cousin of Cambyses II

Darius the Great launched the first Persian invasion of Greece in 492 BC. This invasion was part of the Greco-Persian Wars and included the famous Battle of Marathon in 490 BC. Darius the Great aimed to expand Persian territory and influence into Greece and to punish Athens and Eretria for their support of the Ionian Revolt against Persian rule. His campaign set the stage for subsequent conflicts between the Persian Empire and the Greek city-states.

After Darius the Great there were still 9 more Persian kings before Alexander the Great finally came and shattered the Persian Kingdom, but the prophecy is accurate - Darius the Great was the first Persian king to begin attacking Greece, leading to the future demise of the Persian Kingdom.

Daniel 11:3-4 NIV

'Then a mighty king will arise, who will rule with great power and do as he pleases. After he has arisen, his empire will be broken up and parceled out toward the four winds of heaven. It will not go to his descendants, nor will it have the power he exercised, because his empire will be uprooted and given to others. '

As we already covered in this article, Alexander the Great came and conquered city after city overthrowing the Persian Empire, eventually he returned down to the area of Babylon and took it without a fight, but then he died of a fever - never leaving behind anyone to inherit his kingdom and never getting to do anything with the power he had gained for himself.

Alexander's kingdom was uprooted, and was divided up between his five generals - one of which was only temporary and was folded into the other four, as we stated in this article already, again the prophecy was accurate.

Daniel 11:5 NIV

'“The king of the South will become strong, but one of his commanders will become even stronger than he and will rule his own kingdom with great power. '

The "king of the South" is identified as Ptolemy I Soter, one of Alexander's generals who became the ruler of Egypt and founded the Ptolemaic dynasty.

The "commander" who becomes stronger is Seleucus I Nicator, another of Alexander's generals who initially served under Ptolemy I but later established the Seleucid Empire in the territory of Babylon and the surrounding regions (Mesopotamia and the Eastern Territories, which we described when covering Daniel 8 in this article).

Daniel 11:6 NIV

'After some years, they will become allies. The daughter of the king of the South will go to the king of the North to make an alliance, but she will not retain her power, and he and his power will not last. In those days she will be betrayed, together with her royal escort and her father and the one who supported her. '

"After some years" turns out to be Ptolemy I Soter's son - and the peace agreement via marriage is between Ptolemy II Philadelphus (283–246 BC) and Antiochus II Theos (261–246 BC). Ptolemy II Philadelphus had his daughter, Berenice marry Antiochus II Theos. Berenice's marriage to Antiochus II was meant to cement this alliance.

The alliance was short-lived. After the death of Ptolemy II in 246 BC, Antiochus II took back his former wife, Laodice, and Berenice lost her influence and position. Laodice, fearing for her and her children's position, had Berenice and her infant son assassinated. Shortly after, Antiochus II was also poisoned, likely by Laodice, leaving no children behind.

Daniel 11:7 NIV

'“One from her family line will arise to take her place. He will attack the forces of the king of the North and enter his fortress; he will fight against them and be victorious. '

The prophecy just says someone from her family line would replace her, not that one of her descendants would replace her. According to history, Berenice's brother, Ptolemy III Euergetes sought to avenge their deaths and restore honor to his family.

Arising from Berenice's family line: Ptolemy III was the son of Ptolemy II Philadelphus and the brother of Berenice. Ptolemy III launched a successful military campaign against the Seleucid Empire, known as the Third Syrian War (246–241 BC). This war was partly motivated by the desire to avenge his sister’s murder. He not only avenged the death of his sister but also significantly expanded the Ptolemaic Empire's territories and influence, thus fulfilling the prophecy.

Daniel 11:8 NIV

'He will also seize their gods, their metal images and their valuable articles of silver and gold and carry them off to Egypt. For some years he will leave the king of the North alone. '

As part of his campaign, Ptolemy III looted various cities and sanctuaries within the Seleucid territory. This included seizing idols, sacred objects, and significant amounts of silver and gold. Ptolemy III brought these spoils back to Egypt, greatly enriching his kingdom both materially and symbolically by capturing and bringing home the gods and treasures of his enemies.

According to historical accounts, one notable act of Ptolemy III was the return of sacred statues that had been previously taken by the Persian Empire when they controlled Egypt. This act was seen as both a religious and a political gesture, enhancing his popularity and legitimacy among the Egyptian populace.

The treasures and wealth Ptolemy III brought back contributed to a period of prosperity and stability within Egypt, strengthening the Ptolemaic Kingdom's economic and political power.

After his successful campaigns and the acquisition of vast amounts of wealth, Ptolemy III did not pursue further immediate military actions against the Seleucid Empire. This period of peace allowed both kingdoms to consolidate their positions.

Daniel 11:9-10 NIV

'Then the king of the North will invade the realm of the king of the South but will retreat to his own country. His sons will prepare for war and assemble a great army, which will sweep on like an irresistible flood and carry the battle as far as his fortress. '

Seleucus II Callinicus (246–225 BC): After the death of Antiochus II Theos, his son, Seleucus II Callinicus, became the king of the Seleucid Empire. Seleucus II attempted to invade the Ptolemaic Kingdom (Egypt), but his campaign was unsuccessful, and he was forced to retreat back to his own territory. This was part of the ongoing Third Syrian War.

Seleucus II had two notable sons who continued the conflict against the Ptolemaic Kingdom.

Seleucus III Ceraunus (225–223 BCE): The eldest son, who succeeded his father but had a short and ineffective reign.

Antiochus III the Great (223–187 BCE): The younger son, who became one of the most significant rulers of the Seleucid Empire.

After the death of Seleucus III, Antiochus III took the throne and dedicated himself to restoring the glory of the Seleucid Empire. He assembled a large and formidable army to challenge the Ptolemaic Kingdom.

Antiochus III launched multiple campaigns to reclaim lost territories and assert his dominance. His military efforts were marked by significant successes and territorial gains. Antiochus III managed to push deep into Ptolemaic territory, reaching as far as fortified cities and key strongholds ... again, fulfilling the prophecy.

Daniel 11:11 NIV

'“Then the king of the South will march out in a rage and fight against the king of the North, who will raise a large army, but it will be defeated. '

From 221–204 BCE the king of the south was Ptolemy IV, who ruled Egypt. This part of the prophecy refers to Ptolemy IV's response to the aggressive campaigns of Antiochus III the Great, the king of the North.

In 217 BCE one of the most significant confrontations between these two kings occurred at the Battle of Raphia. This battle was one of the largest battles of the Hellenistic period and took place near modern-day Rafah, on the border of Egypt and the Gaza Strip. Antiochus III the Great assembled a substantial force to continue his campaign against the Ptolemaic Kingdom and assert control over the region.

Reacting with determination and anger to the Seleucid advances, Ptolemy IV mustered his forces to defend his kingdom. Despite having a large and formidable army, Antiochus III faced the well-prepared and motivated forces of Ptolemy IV.

The Battle of Raphia ended in a decisive victory for Ptolemy IV. The Egyptian forces managed to defeat the larger Seleucid army, halting Antiochus III's advances and securing the Ptolemaic control over Coele-Syria (a region that includes parts of modern-day Lebanon, Syria, and Israel). This victory was crucial for the Ptolemaic Kingdom, as it not only protected their territories but also boosted the morale and prestige of Ptolemy IV's reign.

Daniel 11:12-14 NIV

'When the army is carried off, the king of the South will be filled with pride and will slaughter many thousands, yet he will not remain triumphant. For the king of the North will muster another army, larger than the first; and after several years, he will advance with a huge army fully equipped. In those times many will rise against the king of the South. Those who are violent among your own people will rebel in fulfillment of the vision, but without success. '

Ptolemy IV Philopator's victory at Raphia led to a period of overconfidence and pride. Ptolemy IV executed many as part of the aftermath of the battle and to consolidate his control. However, his pride and initial triumph did not lead to lasting success. Despite the victory, Ptolemy IV's reign was characterized by internal weaknesses and decadence, leading to eventual decline.

Following his defeat at Raphia, Antiochus III did not give up. Instead, he spent several years rebuilding and strengthening his forces. Around 204 BCE, Antiochus III raised a much larger and better-equipped army to renew his campaign against the Ptolemaic Kingdom. This renewed effort led to the Fifth Syrian War, where Antiochus III aimed to reclaim lost territories and assert his dominance.

During this period, the Ptolemaic Kingdom faced numerous internal and external challenges. Many groups rose against Ptolemy V Epiphanes (who succeeded Ptolemy IV), including revolts within Egypt and challenges from other regional powers. During this tumultuous period, some Jews in Judea (under Ptolemaic control) hoped to gain independence or align with the Seleucids to improve their position. These uprisings and rebellions did not achieve lasting success at this time, leading to continued instability and conflict.

Daniel 11:15-16 NIV

'Then the king of the North will come and build up siege ramps and will capture a fortified city. The forces of the South will be powerless to resist; even their best troops will not have the strength to stand. The invader will do as he pleases; no one will be able to stand against him. He will establish himself in the Beautiful Land and will have the power to destroy it. '

Antiochus III the Great continued his aggressive campaigns against the Ptolemaic Kingdom. Antiochus III used siege ramps to capture fortified cities. One notable example is the siege of Sidon in 200 BC, a well-fortified city in Phoenicia (modern-day Lebanon).

The Ptolemaic forces, despite their efforts, were unable to withstand the military might of Antiochus III. This resulted in significant losses and retreats. Even the elite units of the Ptolemaic army were ineffective against the superior strategies and forces of Antiochus III.

Antiochus III had great success in his campaigns, acting with considerable autonomy and facing little effective resistance. His military actions were decisive and unchallenged during this period. Antiochus III established control over Judea, which had been under Ptolemaic influence. His presence and actions in this region had profound impacts. Antiochus III's control over the region allowed him to exert significant influence and enforce his policies.

Antiochus III the Great, during his reign, had interactions with the Jewish population in Judea that were generally favorable rather than oppressive. However, it was his successor, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who is infamous for his oppressive and destructive acts against the Jewish people.

Daniel 11:17 NIV

'He will determine to come with the might of his entire kingdom and will make an alliance with the king of the South. And he will give him a daughter in marriage in order to overthrow the kingdom, but his plans will not succeed or help him. '

Later, Antiochus III aimed to solidify his control and stabilize relations with the Ptolemaic Kingdom through a diplomatic marriage. The "king of the South" refers to Ptolemy V Epiphanes (204–181 BC), who was a child during the early part of his reign.

In 193 BC, Antiochus III gave his daughter Cleopatra I in marriage to Ptolemy V. This was intended as a strategic alliance to influence and eventually control the Ptolemaic Kingdom. Cleopatra I Syra was a prominent figure, and her marriage to Ptolemy V was meant to create a bond that would give Antiochus III leverage over Egypt.

Despite the marriage, Cleopatra I did not act in her father's interests but supported her husband and the Ptolemaic Kingdom. This alliance did not result in the control or overthrow of the Ptolemaic Kingdom as Antiochus III had hoped. The Ptolemaic Kingdom maintained its independence and continued to resist Seleucid influence.

Daniel 11:18-19 NIV

'Then he will turn his attention to the coastlands and will take many of them, but a commander will put an end to his insolence and will turn his insolence back on him. After this, he will turn back toward the fortresses of his own country but will stumble and fall, to be seen no more. '

After failing to achieve his goals in Egypt, Antiochus III directed his military campaigns towards the western coastlands and islands of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), including areas under Roman influence. Antiochus III's expansion into these regions included significant victories and the capture of many territories. He aimed to strengthen his control over the Mediterranean and challenge Roman power.

The "commander" refers to the Roman general Lucius Cornelius Scipio Asiaticus.

The decisive encounter occurred at the Battle of Magnesia (190 BCE), where Roman forces defeated Antiochus III's army. This defeat marked a significant turning point, curbing Antiochus III's ambitions and expanding Roman influence in the region.

Following his defeat by the Romans, Antiochus III retreated to his own territories, dealing with internal issues and trying to consolidate his power. He faced significant challenges, including financial strain due to the heavy indemnities imposed by Rome and internal rebellions.

In 187 BCE, while attempting to loot a temple in Elymais (a region in present-day Iran) to fund his treasury, Antiochus III was killed by local inhabitants. This marked the end of his reign.

Daniel 11:20 NIV

'“His successor will send out a tax collector to maintain the royal splendor. In a few years, however, he will be destroyed, yet not in anger or in battle. '

The successor of Antiochus III the Great was his eldest son, Seleucus IV Philopator. He inherited a kingdom weakened by the defeat to the Romans and burdened by heavy war indemnities.

Seleucus IV needed to raise funds to pay the large indemnities imposed by Rome after his father's defeat. This necessitated heavy taxation on his subjects. The most notable tax collector sent out by Seleucus IV was Heliodorus. According to historical sources, Heliodorus was tasked with collecting taxes, including from the wealthy Temple in Jerusalem.

Seleucus IV's reign ended abruptly and mysteriously. He was assassinated in 175 BCE, not through a battle or public uprising, but likely through a palace conspiracy.

It is widely believed that Heliodorus, the very official he had sent out to collect taxes, was involved in the conspiracy against him. Heliodorus may have sought to usurp power but was ultimately unsuccessful in securing the throne.

Daniel 11:21 NIV

'“He will be succeeded by a contemptible person who has not been given the honor of royalty. He will invade the kingdom when its people feel secure, and he will seize it through intrigue. '

After the death of Seleucus IV, there was a power vacuum. The person who came in and became king was Antiochus IV Epiphanes (175–164 BCE). He is described as contemptible due to his deceitful and ruthless nature.

Antiochus IV was not the direct heir to the throne. The legitimate heir was Demetrius I, the son of Seleucus IV, who was a hostage in Rome at the time. Antiochus IV took advantage of the power vacuum created by the death of Seleucus IV and the absence of the rightful heir to seize control of the kingdom.

Antiochus IV used cunning and political maneuvering to gain support and solidify his claim to the throne. He presented himself as a protector of the young heir but then took power for himself. Antiochus IV's rise to power was marked by strategic alliances, bribery, and the elimination of rivals, allowing him to take control of the kingdom without a direct and open conflict.

Daniel 11:22 NIV

'Then an overwhelming army will be swept away before him; both it and a prince of the covenant will be destroyed. '

Antiochus IV was a capable military leader who achieved several significant victories. He was able to defeat large opposing forces in his quest to consolidate power and expand his influence.

One of the key moments was his campaign against Egypt, where he managed to defeat Ptolemaic armies, securing his dominance over the region. This includes his invasions of Egypt in 170 BCE and 168 BCE, where he achieved notable victories.

The phrase, "Prince of the Covenant" is refers Onias III, the Jewish high priest who was deposed and later assassinated during this period of turmoil.

Onias III was a high priest who opposed the Hellenizing policies and the corruption within the Jewish leadership. He was eventually removed from office and replaced by his brother Jason, who was more amenable to the Hellenistic influences. Onias III was later murdered, fulfilling the prophecy.

Daniel 11:23-24 NIV

'After coming to an agreement with him, he will act deceitfully, and with only a few people he will rise to power. When the richest provinces feel secure, he will invade them and will achieve what neither his fathers nor his forefathers did. He will distribute plunder, loot and wealth among his followers. He will plot the overthrow of fortresses — but only for a time. '

Antiochus IV Epiphanes was known for his cunning and deceitful nature. He often made agreements and alliances only to break them when it suited his purposes. One notable instance is his manipulation of political situations within the Seleucid Empire and neighboring regions.

Antiochus IV initially had limited support. He seized power after the death of his brother, Seleucus IV, by outmaneuvering other claimants to the throne. His use of deception and strategic alliances helped him rise to power despite his relatively weak initial position.

Antiochus IV launched unexpected invasions against regions that felt secure, such as his campaigns in Egypt. His aggressive and opportunistic tactics allowed him to achieve successes that eluded his predecessors. Antiochus IV's military campaigns extended Seleucid influence in ways that previous kings had not managed, demonstrating his bold and ambitious approach to expansion.

To secure loyalty and maintain support, Antiochus IV distributed the wealth he acquired from his campaigns and conquests among his followers. This tactic helped solidify his power and ensure the allegiance of his key supporters. By rewarding his followers with plunder and wealth, Antiochus IV ensured a stable and loyal base of power, enabling him to undertake further military and political actions.

Antiochus IV engaged in numerous military campaigns aimed at overthrowing strongholds and expanding his territory. His aggressive tactics often involved sieges and the capture of fortified cities. Despite his initial achievements, his aggressive policies and military campaigns eventually faced significant challenges and resistance, leading to the eventual decline of his power.

Daniel 11:25-26 NIV

'“With a large army he will stir up his strength and courage against the king of the South. The king of the South will wage war with a large and very powerful army, but he will not be able to stand because of the plots devised against him. Those who eat from the king’s provisions will try to destroy him; his army will be swept away, and many will fall in battle. '

Antiochus IV launched several military campaigns against Egypt, aiming to expand his territory and control over the region. Notably, he invaded Egypt twice, in 170 BC and 168 BC.

Ptolemy VI assembled a large and powerful army to defend against Antiochus IV's invasions. The Ptolemaic forces were substantial and prepared to resist the Seleucid advances.

Despite the size and strength of the Ptolemaic army, internal plots and betrayals weakened their ability to effectively resist Antiochus IV. The Ptolemaic court was rife with intrigue and power struggles, which undermined the effectiveness of their military response. Ptolemy VI faced conspiracies within his own ranks, which made it difficult to mount a successful defense.

Ptolemy VI's brother, Ptolemy VIII Physcon, played a key role in these internal conflicts, the Ptolemaic Kingdom was often divided by rivalry and infighting.

The treachery and internal dissension contributed to the failure of Ptolemy VI’s military efforts. His army faced significant defeats at the hands of Antiochus IV. Many soldiers in Ptolemy VI’s army were killed in the ensuing battles. The combination of external military pressure from Antiochus IV and internal betrayal led to devastating losses for the Ptolemaic forces.

Daniel 11:27 NIV

'The two kings, with their hearts bent on evil, will sit at the same table and lie to each other, but to no avail, because an end will still come at the appointed time. '

Three figures come into play here:

Antiochus IV Epiphanes (175–164 BC): The king of the Seleucid Empire (king of the North).

Ptolemy VI Philometor (181–145 BC): The king of the Ptolemaic Kingdom (king of the South).

Ptolemy VIII Euergetes II (Physcon) (170–163 BC): Brother of Ptolemy VI, who also played a significant role in the conflicts and political intrigue.

In 170 BC, Antiochus IV invaded Egypt, taking advantage of internal divisions and the young age of Ptolemy VI. Antiochus IV managed to capture Ptolemy VI and initially installed him as a puppet ruler while keeping real power in his hands.

During this period, both Antiochus IV and Ptolemy VI engaged in negotiations and agreements, pretending to cooperate while secretly plotting against each other. Ptolemy VI tried to consolidate his power and reclaim authority from Antiochus IV. He sought support from his brother Ptolemy VIII and other allies.

Antiochus IV continued to manipulate the political situation to maintain his control over Egypt. He played the brothers against each other to weaken their united front.

Daniel 11:28 NIV

'The king of the North will return to his own country with great wealth, but his heart will be set against the holy covenant. He will take action against it and then return to his own country. '

After his military campaigns in Egypt, particularly the second invasion in 168 BC, Antiochus IV returned to his own country, the Seleucid Empire, with considerable spoils and wealth. The invasions of Egypt had been lucrative, adding to his treasury. The wealth he acquired during these campaigns came from plundering Egyptian cities and collecting tribute.

Antiochus IV attempted to impose Hellenistic culture and religion on the Jewish population, which was an attack on their covenant with God. This included outlawing Jewish religious practices and enforcing Greek customs.

First Invasion (170 BC): Antiochus IV invaded Egypt and initially captured Ptolemy VI.

Second Invasion (168 BC): He launched another invasion of Egypt, securing further victories.

Roman Intervention (168 BC): During his second campaign in Egypt, Antiochus IV was confronted by the Roman envoy Gaius Popillius Laenas, who delivered an ultimatum demanding that he withdraw from Egypt. Facing the threat of Roman military action, Antiochus IV reluctantly complied and withdrew his forces. After being forced to retreat from Egypt due to Roman pressure, Antiochus IV returned to his own country.

In response to various internal and external pressures, including the humiliation by Rome, Antiochus IV intensified his Hellenization efforts. He directed his wrath towards the Jews, who were seen as resistant to Hellenistic culture.

Daniel 11:31-32 NIV

'“His armed forces will rise up to desecrate the temple fortress and will abolish the daily sacrifice. Then they will set up the abomination that causes desolation. With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him. '

Desecration of the Temple (167 BC):

Antiochus IV ordered the erection of an altar to Zeus in the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem and sacrificed pigs on it, a deeply sacrilegious act for the Jews. This event is known as the "abomination of desolation."

This event led to the Maccabean Revolt, a major Jewish uprising against Seleucid rule. Led by the priest Mattathias and his sons, particularly Judas Maccabeus, the revolt aimed to restore Jewish religious practices and cleanse the Temple. The revolt eventually succeeded in recapturing Jerusalem and rededicating the Temple, an event commemorated by the festival of Hanukkah.

Daniel 11:33-35 NIV

'“Those who are wise will instruct many, though for a time they will fall by the sword or be burned or captured or plundered. When they fall, they will receive a little help, and many who are not sincere will join them. Some of the wise will stumble, so that they may be refined, purified and made spotless until the time of the end, for it will still come at the appointed time. '

The wise (leaders and teachers of God's word) played a crucial role in instructing and encouraging the people to remain faithful to their covenant with God despite the severe persecution.

Many of these faithful leaders and their followers faced brutal persecution. They were killed by the sword, burned, captured, and plundered. Historical records describe the intense suffering and martyrdom of many Jews during this period.

An example from 2 Maccabees 7:

The Martyrdom of the Seven Brothers

Antiochus IV Epiphanes sought to enforce Hellenistic culture and practices on the Jewish people, which included banning Jewish religious customs such as circumcision, Sabbath observance, and dietary laws. The Jewish Temple had been desecrated with the erection of an altar to Zeus and the offering of sacrifices, including pigs.

A Jewish mother and her seven sons were arrested and brought before Antiochus IV. They were compelled to eat pork in violation of Jewish dietary laws. The eldest son spoke on behalf of his faith, refusing to eat the pork. He was tortured and killed in front of his mother and brothers. Each brother, one after another, refused to break the dietary laws, declaring their faith in God and their belief in the resurrection and eternal life.

Each was subjected to gruesome tortures, including being scourged, scalped, having their tongues and limbs cut off, and being fried in a large pan. Despite these horrific punishments, they remained steadfast in their faith.

Throughout the ordeal, the mother encouraged her sons to remain faithful and to accept death rather than transgress the laws of their ancestors. After witnessing the martyrdom of all her sons, the mother herself was killed.

The martyrdom of the seven brothers and their mother became a symbol of Jewish resistance against Hellenistic oppression and inspired others to stand firm in their faith.

The Incident in Modein (from 1 Maccabees 2:15-26)

Antiochus IV issued decrees banning Jewish religious practices and promoting Hellenistic worship. This included the erection of an altar to Zeus in the Jewish Temple and the imposition of Greek religious practices. Idolatrous images and statues, including those of Zeus, were paraded through Jewish towns, and people were forced to participate in pagan rituals.

Many Jews resisted these impositions. The refusal to worship Greek gods or participate in Hellenistic rituals often resulted in severe punishment or execution.

In the town of Modein, Mattathias, the father of Judas Maccabeus, refused to offer a sacrifice to the Greek gods. When a fellow Jew stepped forward to comply with the king's command and offer the sacrifice, Mattathias was filled with zeal and killed him on the spot.

Mattathias also destroyed the altar and called for Jewish loyalists to follow him into the mountains, where they formed the nucleus of the Maccabean resistance.

The actions of Mattathias and Judas Maccabeus became symbolic of Jewish resistance against oppression and idolatry.

The successful revolt led to the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem and the celebration of Hanukkah, commemorating the victory over the Seleucids and the miracle of the Temple's menorah burning for eight days with a small amount of oil.

Death of Antiochus IV Epiphanes

Eventually Antiochus IV Epiphanes died, turning his attention to Persia. Antiochus' persecution of the Jewish people lasted only 3 years (2300 evenings and mornings), just as the prophecy was told to Daniel in Daniel 8:13-14.

According to historical sources, Antiochus IV died during a campaign in the east. He was attempting to plunder a temple in Persia, possibly in Elymais, when he was struck with an illness. This illness has been described in various ways, ranging from mental disturbance to physical disease. Most sources agree that he was overtaken by a sudden and painful malady.

According to The Book of Maccabees, part of the Apocrypha, a detailed and somewhat dramatic account of his death is found. According to 2 Maccabees 9, Antiochus was struck by a painful and humiliating disease while on his way to Persia. His body was infested with worms, and he suffered from unbearable pain. The narrative suggests that his suffering was divine retribution for his desecration of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem and his persecution of the Jewish people. The account describes him as recognizing his hubris and repenting for his actions before his death.

While the exact nature of Antiochus IV Epiphanes' death varies among sources, the common theme is that he succumbed to a sudden and severe illness while on a military campaign in the eastern regions of his empire. The Jewish tradition particularly emphasizes the notion of divine punishment for his actions against the Jewish people.

What about the rest of Daniel 11 and Daniel 12?

If you follow the historical evidence, there is zero evidence that matches the life of Antiochus IV Epiphanes after verse Daniel 11:40 -

As I was following the evidence myself it was like traveling 100 mph in excitement researching each verse further and further, suddenly at verse 40 it came to a screaming halt.

Daniel 11:40 NIV

'“At the time of the end the king of the South will engage him in battle, and the king of the North will storm out against him with chariots and cavalry and a great fleet of ships. He will invade many countries and sweep through them like a flood. '

Because of Roman intervention, Antiochus IV Epiphanes stayed far away from the the Ptolemy Dynasty and the southern kingdom belonging to Egypt. For the rest of his life Antiochus focused on campaigns to the east - not the south, eventually dying in Persia.

This is not uncommon for prophetic writings throughout the Bible, often God will be speaking through a Prophet and the actual fulfillment is partially fulfilled by one person, and the rest filled by another at another time. There are no historical records of any of Antiochus having any descendants attack the south, in fact it was the Romans who would later attack the south during the time of Cleopatra in 30 BCE.

If you try to take any of the Roman leaders and try to substitute them for Antiochus, such as Titus who came to subdue Jewish rebelion in Jerusalem in 70AD - it simply doesnt work, Titus never setup any abomination in the temple, it wasnt until after the Bar Kokhba Revolt (132–136 CE), that Emperor Hadrian sought to consolidate Roman control over Jerusalem and suppress Jewish resistance.

As part of his efforts to Romanize the city and erase its Jewish identity, Hadrian rebuilt Jerusalem as a Roman colony named Aelia Capitolina. Unfortunately none of these actions fit the 400 years of prophetic history before it like Antiochus IV Epiphanes.

This fits the profile of a separate prophetic sequence in Daniel 9 about the end of the Jewish exile and the coming of the Messiah - but does not match Antiochus IV Epiphanes.

Daniel 11:36 - Daniel 12:3 are about the End of Days

The final verses of chapter 11 can only be that of whats described of the Antichrist. Jesus being a prophet came many years after Antiochus, and Jesus Himself said that the Abomination of Desolation spoken of by Daniel had not happened yet.

Matthew 24:15-16 NIV

' “So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination that causes desolation,’ spoken of through the prophet Daniel—let the reader understand— then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.'

This also did not happen during the time of the Roman attack by Emperor Hadrian when the Statue of Jupiter was setup in the temple. The entire ending of Daniel and much of what Jesus says in Matthew 24 are yet to be fulfilled.

As you can see the book of Daniel is rich - and there are more prophecies about the greek empire by other prophets - but none compare to the detail as whats found in Daniel.