Old Testament
Daniel 11:23
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse describes a leader who, after forming a partnership, will use trickery to gain power.
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
After making an alliance, he will act deceitfully. With only a small following, he will rise to power.
And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully: for he shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse describes a leader who, after forming a partnership, will use trickery to gain power. Despite having only a few supporters, he will manage to become influential. This suggests that sometimes, those who seem weak or unimportant can rise unexpectedly. It highlights the idea that appearances can be deceiving. The leader's deceitful actions may lead to significant consequences for others. This serves as a reminder to be cautious of those who may not have our best interests at heart. Trust must be earned, not given freely, especially when alliances are formed. The rise of such a leader can change the course of events dramatically, showing how power dynamics can shift quickly. It encourages us to be aware of the motivations behind people's actions and to seek truth in our relationships and decisions. Understanding this can help us navigate our own lives more wisely and avoid being misled by charm or superficial alliances. Ultimately, it teaches us the importance of discernment in our interactions with others.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Daniel 11:23 to your life
In your own life, be mindful of the people you choose to trust. Not everyone who seems friendly has good intentions. Take time to understand their motivations and be cautious in forming alliances. This awareness can protect you from being misled or taken advantage of. Always seek genuine relationships based on honesty and integrity.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 11:23 mean?
Daniel 11:23 describes a leader who, after forming an alliance, will use deceit to gain power. Despite having only a small group of supporters, he will become influential, highlighting how appearances can be misleading.
What is the significance of alliances in Daniel 11:23?
In Daniel 11:23, alliances are significant because they set the stage for the leader's deceitful rise to power. This suggests that partnerships can be used manipulatively, and one should be cautious about whom to trust.
How does Daniel 11:23 relate to power dynamics?
Daniel 11:23 illustrates how power dynamics can shift unexpectedly, as a seemingly weak leader can rise to prominence through deceit. It serves as a reminder that influence can come from unexpected sources.
What themes are present in Daniel 11:23?
Key themes in Daniel 11:23 include deceit, power, and the importance of caution in relationships. The verse emphasizes that appearances can be deceptive and encourages discernment in forming alliances.

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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