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Daniel 11:26

Yea, they that feed of the portion of his meat shall destroy him, and his army shall overflow: and many shall fall down slain.

Daniel 11:26 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Daniel speaks to the consequences of betrayal and disloyalty. It warns that those who betray someone they should be supporting, whether it be a leader or a friend, will ultimately bring destruction upon themselves. The phrase "they that feed of the portion of his meat shall destroy him" suggests that those who benefit from someone's provision or leadership, but then turn against them, will be the ones to cause their downfall. The following phrase, "and his army shall overflow: and many shall fall down slain," underscores the idea that the consequences of this betrayal will be significant and result in a large number of casualties. In a broader sense, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of loyalty and the potential dangers of turning against those who have supported us.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Daniel, the phrase "they that feed of the portion of his meat" can be interpreted as referring to those who benefit from the wealth or resources of a powerful leader but do so in a destructive or selfish manner. The idea of destruction is emphasized by the following phrase "shall destroy him," indicating that those who consume or take from the leader's portion will ultimately contribute to his downfall. The mention of his army overflowing suggests a sense of overwhelming force or power, but this force will ultimately lead to many casualties, as indicated by the phrase "many shall fall down slain." This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of greed, betrayal, and misuse of power, highlighting the destructive nature of those who seek to benefit at the expense of others.

Daniel 11:26 in other translations

American Standard Version

Yea, they that eat of his dainties shall destroy him, and his army shall overflow; and many shall fall down slain.

World English Bible

Yes, they who eat of his dainties shall destroy him, and his army shall overflow; and many shall fall down slain.

Douay-Rheims

And they that eat bread with him, shall destroy him, and his army shall be overthrown: and many shall fall down slain.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Yea, they that feede of the portion of his meate, shall destroy him: and his armie shall ouerflowe: and many shall fall, and be slaine.