Topical Encyclopedia Belshazzar, a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, is best known as the last king of Babylon, whose reign is marked by the dramatic events described in the Book of Daniel. His account is primarily found in Daniel 5, where he is depicted as a ruler who defied the God of Israel and faced divine judgment.Historical Context Belshazzar was the son of Nabonidus, the last king of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. While Nabonidus was the official king, he spent much of his reign away from Babylon, leaving Belshazzar to act as co-regent and de facto ruler of the city. This arrangement is supported by historical records, which indicate that Belshazzar held significant authority during his father's absence. The Feast and the Writing on the Wall The most notable biblical account of Belshazzar is found in Daniel 5. The chapter opens with Belshazzar hosting a great feast for a thousand of his nobles. During the feast, he orders the gold and silver vessels taken from the temple in Jerusalem to be brought in, so that he and his guests might drink from them. This act of sacrilege demonstrates his disregard for the God of Israel and his holy artifacts. As the revelry continues, a mysterious hand appears and writes a message on the wall of the banquet hall. The king is terrified and calls for his wise men to interpret the writing, but they are unable to do so. Finally, the queen suggests that Daniel, known for his wisdom and ability to interpret dreams, be summoned. Daniel's Interpretation Daniel is brought before Belshazzar and offers a stern rebuke, reminding the king of how God humbled Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar's predecessor, for his pride. Daniel then interprets the writing on the wall: "MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN." He explains that these words mean God has numbered the days of Belshazzar's kingdom and brought it to an end, that the king has been weighed and found wanting, and that his kingdom will be divided and given to the Medes and Persians (Daniel 5:26-28). The Fall of Babylon True to Daniel's prophecy, that very night, Belshazzar is slain, and Darius the Mede takes over the kingdom (Daniel 5:30-31). This event marks the end of the Babylonian Empire and the beginning of the Medo-Persian rule, fulfilling the divine judgment pronounced against Belshazzar. Theological Significance Belshazzar's account serves as a powerful reminder of the sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations and individuals. His downfall illustrates the biblical principle that pride and defiance against God lead to judgment. The narrative also highlights the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His word, as the fall of Babylon was prophesied by the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah long before it occurred. Legacy Belshazzar's legacy is one of caution against hubris and irreverence towards the divine. His account is a testament to the biblical truth that "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6). Through the account of Belshazzar, believers are encouraged to recognize the authority of God and to live in humility and reverence before Him. Nave's Topical Index Daniel 5:1-30Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand. Nave's Topical Index Library Belshazzar's Feast The Master of the Magicians. The Conquest of Babylon. Cyrus. The Scattering of the People The Unseen Watcher We Arrive Now at a Branch of Our Subject Upon which the Lord's ... Mene, Tekel, Peres Babylon. The Handwriting on the Wall Resources What is sacrilege? What does it mean to be sacrilegious? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the book of Susanna? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of the Medo-Persian Empire in biblical history? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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