Daniel 11:32Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The unrighteous will act with duplicity and treachery concerning the covenant; however, those who truly know their God will steadfastly uphold and fulfill it. In the Maccabees, we observe that some feigned adherence to God's law while ultimately forming alliances with the Gentiles; yet, there were others who remained steadfast in their true faith. I believe this pattern will also emerge during the time of Antichrist, when many will lose their fervor. The Lord also asks in the Gospel, ‘Will the Son of Man find faith on earth?’ (Luke 18:8).

The Archangel proclaims that those who are unrighteous will be drawn into a deceptive agreement, which relies on persuasive language to lead the lawless away from reverence. However, those who pursue their Creator will triumph and bring forth new life. In this context, the Archangel elucidates the actions of the esteemed Mattathias and his followers, who initially defied the edicts of Antiochus. They retreated into the wilderness with a handful of warriors to stand against the authority of their oppressors.