Old Testament
Daniel 11:19
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a leader who, after a series of conflicts, decides to retreat back to his homeland.
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
He will then retreat to the fortresses of his own land, but he will stumble and fall and never be seen again.
Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land: but he shall stumble and fall, and not be found.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a leader who, after a series of conflicts, decides to retreat back to his homeland. This retreat signifies a moment of weakness, as he is unable to maintain his power. The phrase 'stumble and fall' suggests that his downfall is imminent and inevitable. His failure is not just physical but also symbolic, representing the collapse of his ambitions. The finality of 'never be seen again' emphasizes the totality of his defeat. This moment serves as a reminder that no matter how powerful one may seem, everyone has vulnerabilities. Ultimately, it illustrates that pride and overreach can lead to one's downfall. The leader's retreat is a cautionary tale about the consequences of hubris and the importance of humility in leadership. It encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the potential pitfalls of our ambitions and desires for control. Recognizing our limitations can lead to wiser choices and a more grounded approach to our goals and aspirations.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Daniel 11:19 to your life
This verse encourages us to be aware of our limitations and the potential consequences of our ambitions. It reminds us that overreaching can lead to failure. Embracing humility in our pursuits can help us make wiser decisions and avoid unnecessary pitfalls in our lives. Reflect on your goals and ensure they are grounded in reality and self-awareness. Be mindful of the balance between ambition and humility in your journey toward success.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 11:19 mean?
Daniel 11:19 describes a leader who retreats to his homeland after facing defeat. This signifies his inability to maintain power and foreshadows his imminent downfall.
What is the significance of 'stumble and fall' in Daniel 11:19?
The phrase 'stumble and fall' indicates that the leader's failure is not just physical but also symbolic of his lost ambitions and power.
What does 'never be seen again' imply in Daniel 11:19?
The phrase 'never be seen again' emphasizes the totality of the leader's defeat, suggesting that he will not recover from this failure.
How does Daniel 11:19 relate to leadership?
This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and overreach in leadership, highlighting the importance of humility and self-awareness.

The Book of Daniel
Daniel 1: Daniel and His Friends in Babylon
In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon comes unto Jerusalem and besieges it. The Lord gives Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God, which he carries into the land of Shinar to the house of his god. The king speaks unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes; children in whom is no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as have ability in them to stand in the king's palace, whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. The king appoints them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank, so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king. Among these are of the children of Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The prince of the eunuchs gives them names: unto Daniel he gives the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.
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