דניאל, פרק י״א, פסוק ז׳

The power struggles between the kingdoms of the South and the North take a sudden turn with the rise of a new leader from the Southern dynasty. Stepping up to reclaim his family's royal authority, this new ruler establishes himself firmly in power [רש״י, מצודת דוד, יוסף אבן יחיא, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. He emerges as a direct branch of the royal family line [מצודת ציון], related to the daughter of the King of the South, representing Egypt. The primary approach among commentators is that this leader is one of her descendants, such as a son or grandson. However, an alternative historical perspective identifies this figure as her brother, who takes power specifically to avenge her death [מלבי״ם].

Once his rule is secure, the new king launches a fierce military campaign. The primary approach among commentators is that he directly attacks the Northern military forces. Some suggest that his initial strike is aimed at Northern troops stationed within Egypt, seeking to break their control over the land [יוסף אבן יחיא] and seize their treasures [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Taking a different view, others propose that he actually joins forces with rebellious Northern factions who come to his aid to help avenge his sister [מלבי״ם].

The campaign quickly pushes deep into enemy territory. The Southern king penetrates the heavily guarded fortresses and strongholds of the Northern kingdom. Historically, this massive offensive resulted in the conquest of vast regions from the King of the North, expanding the Southern reach all the way to the Tigris River and Babylon [מלבי״ם]. Ultimately, the Southern ruler achieves complete success. He handles his enemies exactly as he pleases, inflicting heavy destruction and securing his revenge [רש״י, מצודת דוד, יוסף אבן יחיא, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. In the end, he seizes these fortified cities [מצודת ציון]. The primary approach among commentators is that he firmly takes hold of large portions of the Northern kingdom and rules over them with absolute authority.