Old Testament
Daniel 11:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we see a political alliance forming between two powerful kingdoms.
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
After some years, they will form an alliance. The daughter of the king of the south will go to the king of the north to seal the agreement. But she will not retain her power, and he will not endure either. She will be handed over, along with those who brought her, her father, and the one who supported her.
And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king’s daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her, and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in these times.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a political alliance forming between two powerful kingdoms. The daughter of the king of the south travels to the king of the north to finalize this agreement. However, despite the hopes for stability, neither she nor the king will maintain their power. The alliance will ultimately fail, leading to her being betrayed along with those who supported her. This reflects the fragility of human plans and the unpredictability of political relationships. The passage serves as a reminder that even the most strategic alliances can crumble, often due to unforeseen circumstances. It highlights the importance of understanding that power is temporary and can shift unexpectedly, leaving individuals vulnerable. Trusting in human strength alone can lead to disappointment, as history shows us that alliances can be broken and loyalties can change in an instant. This story encourages us to seek deeper, more reliable foundations in our lives, rather than relying solely on external agreements or relationships. Explore related collaboration.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Daniel 11:6 to your life
In our own lives, we often make plans and form partnerships that we believe will bring us security. However, it's crucial to remember that not all agreements will last. We should invest in relationships built on trust and integrity, rather than just strategic advantages. Reflect on your own alliances and consider their stability and foundation. Seek deeper connections that can withstand challenges and changes in circumstances.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 11:6 mean?
Daniel 11:6 describes a political alliance between two kingdoms, where the daughter of the king of the south seeks to secure an agreement with the king of the north. However, the verse highlights that neither party will maintain their power, leading to betrayal and failure of the alliance.
What is the significance of the daughter of the king of the south in Daniel 11:6?
The daughter of the king of the south represents a strategic move to form an alliance through marriage or diplomacy. Her journey to the king of the north symbolizes the hope for stability, but the verse ultimately reveals the fragility of such political arrangements.
What does the phrase 'she shall not retain the power of the arm' mean in Daniel 11:6?
The phrase 'she shall not retain the power of the arm' indicates that the daughter will lose her influence and authority despite the alliance. It emphasizes the temporary nature of power in political relationships.
How does Daniel 11:6 relate to the theme of betrayal?
Daniel 11:6 illustrates betrayal through the eventual downfall of the alliance, where the daughter and her supporters are handed over. This reflects the idea that even well-planned agreements can lead to unexpected treachery.

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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