Definition: The Hebrew term "Akhenaten" appears in several verses in the Book of Daniel, particularly passages that discuss the reigns of Akhêmen (Akkheim) and his successors at various times, often from 631 to AD 529. - In chapter 4:9 of Daniel, Akhenaten is described as having "killed every living person" and "destroyed the gods." The term "killed" is used twice in this verse. This could refer to his military conquests or his rule of a predominantly monotheistic society that rejected all traditional deities. - In chapter 5:10, Akhenaten's successor Isareel is described as having "separated from the gods," likely referring to his conversion to the worship of a pantheon of other gods. This was a significant event in Akhenaten's reign. - In chapter 14:9-27 of Daniel, Akhenaten and his successors are described as performing "blasphemous" sacrifices at the Temple of Aten (Amun-Ra), which they claim is the worship of the god Amun. This was a religious reform that is later explained by the Book of Jonah in chapter 31:5-7. - In chapter 23:1-48 of Daniel, Akhenaten's son Sobek is described as having performed "blasphemous" rituals at the Temple, including offerings to Aten. This may indicate his claim to divine supremacy over the other gods and goddesses. The term "Akhenaten" is not found in any other place within the biblical text of Daniel, nor is it mentioned directly or indirectly in any historical documents about Akhenaten's rule or reign. The Hebrew name "Akkheim" (which later became known as Akhenaten) was commonly used by both Jews and Greeks to refer to kings who worshipped Aten rather than the other gods. The term "Akhenaten" has been interpreted in various ways, including being a symbol of the early stages of monotheism or an example of religious reform that sought to separate the worship of the gods from their worship of a central deity.

Akhenaten