Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:Belteshaz'zar is the Babylonian name given to Daniel, a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible. Daniel is best known for his unwavering faith in God and his role as a prophet during the Babylonian exile. The name Belteshaz'zar reflects the cultural and religious assimilation efforts of the Babylonian empire, which sought to integrate captives into their society by renaming them after their own deities. Biblical References: The name Belteshaz'zar is first introduced in the Book of Daniel. In Daniel 1:7 , it is recorded: "The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshaz'zar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abednego." This renaming was part of the broader strategy to indoctrinate the young Jewish captives into Babylonian culture and religion. Meaning of the Name: The name Belteshaz'zar is believed to be derived from the Akkadian language, possibly meaning "Bel, protect his life" or "Bel's prince." Bel was a title for the Babylonian god Marduk, indicating the intent to associate Daniel with the Babylonian pantheon. Despite this, Daniel remained steadfast in his faith in the God of Israel. Role and Significance: Daniel, as Belteshaz'zar, served in the court of King Nebuchadnezzar and later under other Babylonian and Persian rulers. His wisdom and ability to interpret dreams and visions set him apart, earning him a position of influence. In Daniel 2:26 , King Nebuchadnezzar addresses him: "The king asked Daniel, whose name was Belteshaz'zar, 'Are you able to tell me what I saw in my dream and interpret it?'" Daniel's interpretation of dreams, such as Nebuchadnezzar's dream of the statue (Daniel 2) and the writing on the wall during Belshazzar's feast (Daniel 5), demonstrated God's sovereignty over earthly kingdoms. Despite his Babylonian name, Daniel's actions consistently pointed to the power and authority of the God of Israel. Faithfulness and Integrity: Throughout his life, Daniel, known as Belteshaz'zar in the Babylonian court, exemplified faithfulness and integrity. He refused to defile himself with the king's food and wine (Daniel 1:8) and continued to pray to God despite the threat of persecution (Daniel 6:10). His commitment to God was unwavering, even when faced with the lion's den, where God miraculously delivered him (Daniel 6:22). Prophetic Ministry: Daniel's prophetic visions, recorded in the latter chapters of the Book of Daniel, reveal God's plan for the future and the coming of His eternal kingdom. These visions include the four beasts (Daniel 7), the ram and the goat (Daniel 8), and the seventy weeks (Daniel 9). Daniel's prophecies have been the subject of much study and interpretation, particularly concerning eschatology and the end times. Conclusion: The name Belteshaz'zar serves as a reminder of the cultural challenges Daniel faced while maintaining his identity and faith. His life and ministry continue to inspire believers to remain faithful to God amidst adversity and to trust in His sovereign plan. Concordance Belteshaz'zar (8 Occurrences)Daniel 1:7 Daniel 2:26 Daniel 4:8 Daniel 4:9 Daniel 4:18 Daniel 4:19 Daniel 5:12 Daniel 10:1 Thesaurus Belteshaz'zar (8 Occurrences)Belteshaz'zar. Belteshazzar, Belteshaz'zar. Belts . Multi-Version Concordance Belteshaz'zar (8 Occurrences). Daniel 1:7 and the ... /b/belteshaz'zar.htm - 9k Belteshazzar (8 Occurrences) Belts (6 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |