דניאל, פרק י״א, פסוק ל״ז

The prophecy foretells the rise of a strange and deeply arrogant leader who intentionally severs himself from all tradition, faith, and human connection. Driven entirely by his own ambitions for greatness, this figure builds his power on a total isolation from the past. His first act of rebellion is a complete disregard for the faith of his ancestors; he pays no attention to their worship and gives their beliefs no thought [שטיינזלץ]. Commentators offer different perspectives on the identity of these ancestral traditions. One approach suggests this refers to Jewish tradition, meaning the leader will ignore God, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob [רש״י]. Another perspective views this through a historical and pagan lens, suggesting he will abandon the ancient idolatry of his forefathers who worshipped celestial bodies like Jupiter and Venus [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. A more specific historical interpretation argues he will abandon the gods of Constantine before embracing a new religion [יוסף אבן יחיא].

This pattern of detachment extends to his interpersonal and spiritual loyalties, which commentators interpret in several distinct ways. Some see his rejection as a metaphor directed at the nation of Israel, historically compared to the fairest among women, whose true value this leader will refuse to acknowledge [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. Another view connects his shifting loyalties to Mary, representing his transition toward Christianity [יוסף אבן יחיא]. Alternatively, his detachment can be understood quite literally, pointing to a man who cuts himself off entirely from women and standard human relationships [שטיינזלץ].

His rebellion does not stop with the beliefs of his ancestors. He will show contempt for every deity of every nation, including the true God, which naturally leads to his deep disrespect for the nation of Israel [מצודת דוד, יוסף אבן יחיא, שטיינזלץ]. Another perspective explains this sweeping rejection differently, suggesting he dismisses all other deities because he acknowledges only a single "First Cause" [מלבי״ם].

Ultimately, a singular motive drives this profound isolation: an overwhelming lust for honor, pride, and supremacy over everyone else [מצודת דוד, יוסף אבן יחיא, שטיינזלץ]. This arrogance reaches its peak when he declares himself to be God's prophet on earth, claiming to draw his power and influence directly from Him [מלבי״ם].