So Daniel was brought before the king, who asked him, "Are you Daniel, one of the exiles my father the king brought from Judah? So Daniel was brought before the kingDaniel, a Jewish exile, is summoned to appear before King Belshazzar during a time of crisis. This event occurs in the Babylonian Empire, which had conquered Judah and taken many of its people captive. Daniel's reputation as a wise man and interpreter of dreams precedes him, as he had previously served under King Nebuchadnezzar. The summoning of Daniel highlights the desperation of the king, who seeks understanding of the mysterious writing on the wall. This moment underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and the elevation of His faithful servants in foreign lands. who asked him, “Are you Daniel, one of the exiles my father the king brought from Judah? Persons / Places / Events 1. DanielA Jewish exile in Babylon, known for his wisdom and ability to interpret dreams and visions. He is brought before King Belshazzar to interpret the mysterious writing on the wall. 2. Belshazzar The king of Babylon at the time, who is hosting a great feast and using the sacred vessels from the Jerusalem temple, showing disrespect to God. 3. Babylon The city and empire where the events take place, known for its wealth, power, and idolatry. 4. The Writing on the Wall A mysterious message written by a divine hand during Belshazzar's feast, which Daniel is called to interpret. 5. The Queen Likely the queen mother, who remembers Daniel's past service and recommends him to Belshazzar for interpreting the writing. Teaching Points God's SovereigntyDaniel 5:13 reminds us of God's control over history and His ability to raise up and bring down leaders according to His purposes. Faithfulness in Exile Daniel's consistent faithfulness, even in a foreign land, serves as a model for believers living in a secular world. The Consequences of Pride Belshazzar's arrogance and disrespect for God lead to his downfall, illustrating the biblical principle that pride precedes destruction. The Role of Godly Wisdom Daniel's wisdom, rooted in his relationship with God, is a powerful tool for navigating complex situations and providing guidance. The Importance of Reputation Daniel's reputation as a man of integrity and wisdom opens doors for him to influence even pagan kings, showing the impact of a godly character. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Daniel's response to being summoned by Belshazzar reflect his character and faith in God? Consider how you can demonstrate similar faithfulness in your own life.2. In what ways does the account of Daniel 5:13 illustrate the biblical principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble? How can you apply this principle in your daily interactions? 3. Reflect on a time when you were in a challenging situation like Daniel. How did your faith influence your actions, and what was the outcome? 4. How does Daniel's ability to interpret the writing on the wall demonstrate the importance of godly wisdom? What steps can you take to seek and apply such wisdom in your life? 5. Consider the role of Daniel's reputation in this account. How can you cultivate a reputation that honors God and opens doors for His purposes in your life? Connections to Other Scriptures Daniel 1Provides background on Daniel's arrival in Babylon and his initial rise to prominence due to his faithfulness and God's favor. Daniel 2 Shows Daniel's previous experience in interpreting dreams for King Nebuchadnezzar, establishing his reputation as a wise man. Proverbs 1:7 Highlights the importance of the fear of the Lord as the beginning of knowledge, which is evident in Daniel's life and actions. 1 Peter 5:5-6 Encourages humility before God, a trait exemplified by Daniel in contrast to Belshazzar's pride.
People Babylonians, Belshazzar, Belteshazzar, Daniel, Darius, Micah, Nebuchadnezzar, PersiansPlaces Babylon, JerusalemTopics Captivity, Caused, Daniel, Exiles, Jewry, Judah, Judea, Prisoners, Removed, Sons, Spake, SpokeDictionary of Bible Themes Daniel 5:10-168130 guidance, from godly people Library Mene, Tekel, Peres'Then Daniel answered and said before the king, Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another: yet I will read the writing unto the king, and make known to him the interpretation. 18. O thou king, the most high God gave Nebuchadnezzar thy father a kingdom, and majesty, and glory, and honour: 19. And for the majesty that he gave him, all people, nations, and languages, trembled and feared before him: whom he would he slew; and whom he would he kept alive; and whom he would he set up; … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Scales of Judgment "So Then they that are in the Flesh Cannot Please God. " Human Government. Eastern Wise-Men, or Magi, visit Jesus, the New-Born King. Messiah Unpitied, and Without a Comforter Sovereignty of God in Administration Jesus Sets Out from Judæa for Galilee. The Eternity of God That Upon the Conquest and Slaughter of vitellius Vespasian Hastened his Journey to Rome; but Titus his Son Returned to Jerusalem. Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of the Exceeding Mercy of God in Christ, to his Poor Servant, John Bunyan There is a Blessedness in Reversion The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, The Harbinger The Greater Prophets. Meditations Before Dinner and Supper. The Chorus of Angels Daniel Links Daniel 5:13 NIVDaniel 5:13 NLT Daniel 5:13 ESV Daniel 5:13 NASB Daniel 5:13 KJV Daniel 5:13 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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