This phrase appears in Daniel 11:27, describing two kings who "sit at the same table" and "speak lies to each other, for their hearts are bent toward evil." The context is the complex political maneuvering between Seleucid and Ptolemaic rulers—diplomatic meetings masking hostile intent. The phrase "for evil" captures the moral quality of their scheming: despite outward courtesy and alliance, their true purposes are destructive. Both plot against each other even while negotiating. This illustrates a recurring biblical theme: human political wisdom achieves nothing when divorced from moral integrity and divine purpose. God's appointed time will come regardless of their machinations.