When the multitude is taken: this is understood by some commentators as a later addition to the text or a variant reading of the last statement in verse 11. But it may equally well be understood as an intentional repetition of the previous idea, with the meaning “and when he has finished defeating this great army…,” or as in New English Bible, “when this horde has been captured….”

His heart shall be exalted: the essential element in this expression is the pride of the Egyptian king. The languages of the world have various ways of communicating this idea. Some will say “his heart swelled up,” and others, “he thought he was great” or “he was lifted up.” Translators should search for the most natural equivalent in their own language.

Cast down tens of thousands: the number is probably intended to be taken not literally but rather as a reference to a very great (uncountable) number of enemy soldiers. And in most languages it is a mistake to translate the verb cast down literally. The meaning is to exterminate or cause to die.

But: the conjunction marks the beginning of an unexpected thought. In spite of his achievements this ruler will not continue to be successful. In some cases it will be good to find an equivalent for “yet” (New Jerusalem Bible), “however,” or “nevertheless.”

He shall not prevail: it may be necessary in some languages to say something like “he will not go on winning,” “he will have no enduring strength” (New Jerusalem Bible), or “he will not remain triumphant” (New International Version).

Quoted with permission from Péter-Contesse, René & Ellington, John. A Handbook on Daniel. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1994. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .