What does Daniel 11:45 mean?

Most of the prophecy contained in this chapter has already been fulfilled, making the identity of certain persons and nations easier. However, the appearance of an arrogant, blasphemous king (Daniel 11:36) appears to be set in what is still our future. The text leaves open many possible interpretations. All we can be sure of are the most basic concepts as explained here—definite meaning is nearly impossible to assign to these passages.

This profane ruler is connected to concepts (Daniel 11:37–39) echoed in the book of Revelation (Revelation 13:1–4, 11–17). It is this king who will be attacked by a "king of the south" and a "king of the north." The king of the north seems especially effective, leading what appears to be a coalition of many nations (Ezekiel 38:4, 11–15; Joel 2:2, 20). At some point, a threat from the east and north causes this invader to turn around, intent on violence (Daniel 11:44).

Here, the king of the north and his army seem to meet their defeat. Some believe the threat mentioned in the prior verse is an eastern power such as China. Others see the armies of the first beast of Revelation coming to aid the second beast.

Similarly wide options exist to explain this defeat. Somewhere in Israel, between the Mediterranean Sea and some "glorious holy mountain," this evil ruler will come to his end. Some commentators believe that Ezekiel chapter 38 contains a description of this event. In that prophecy, God intervenes with massive earthquakes. These cause the norther soldiers confusion and infighting. The Lord then rains down water, fire, hail, and sulfur, putting an end to the northern army (Ezekiel 39:4). That would explain how the king could meet his fate without any help.

The exact meaning of this prophecy is yet to be seen. In the following passage, Daniel will provide more prophetic remarks about the end times.