Down to Earth But Heavenly Minded

What does Daniel Chapter 5 mean?

In discussions of biblical historical accuracy, this passage is among the most common addressed. Taken literally and directly, the progression of kings given here conflicts with commonly accepted history. The primary criticism of this passage is that Nebuchadnezzar did not have a son named Belshazzar. Nor was Belshazzar the last recorded king of Babylon prior to its fall. However, the biblical text is brief and subject to various interpretations. Also, ancient historical records of that era are often contradictory, vague, or incomplete. Untangling the various options could fill multiple books; many have been written for that purpose.

Among the more reasonable explanations involves regional names—building on the common occurrence of a person being known by different names in different times or places. “Belshazzar” might be used here as another name for Evilmerodach, clearly identified as Nebuchadnezzar’s son and successor, and who was murdered after a short rule. Another option is that this chapter refers to Belshazzar, son of Nabonidus. Nabonidus was the last king of Babylon; he left his son as co-regent of the capital city while he was on a journey, at which time the city was captured. Either of these implies Daniel 5:30–31 summarizes the events between the end of this particular Babylonian ruler’s life and the cementing of Darius the Mede’s control of Babylon.

Some time after Nebuchadnezzar’s period of insanity (Daniel 4:33–37), Belshazzar holds an enormous party for himself and other nobles. Daniel immediately notes the king’s consumption of wine, then specifies that it was after drinking that Belshazzar made a fateful choice. He orders the sacred objects captured by Nebuchadnezzar (Exodus 30:22–29; Daniel 1:1–2) to be brought to the party. There, they are used as props during further drinking and toasts to idols (Daniel 5:1–4).

Without warning, the king and others see disembodied fingers writing on the wall, in a spot brightly lit by a lamp. The ethereal fingers, the strange writing, the location on the wall, and the suddenness make it clear that this is a supernatural event. The king is terrified; Daniel’s description may mean that he collapsed from fright. Immediately, Belshazzar begs for an explanation. He offers great honor and a position of power. None of the advisors can explain the words. In fact, they cannot even read them, suggesting they were in a foreign script or code. This rekindles the king’s fear (Daniel 5:5–9).

The woman who speaks next does not seem to be one of Belshazzar’s wives or concubines. She is most likely the widow of a former king, or possibly the “queen mother.” She arrives at the banquet hall and suggests Belshazzar consult with Daniel. She refers to Daniel using phrases like those spoken by Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:8). She notes Daniel’s ability to explain such things and encourages the terrified king to call the captive Hebrew. When Daniel arrives, the king once again promises great rewards if Daniel can explain what has happened (Daniel 5:10–16).

Few characters in Scripture exhibit as much raw courage as Daniel. As a captive of Babylon, in a hall surrounded by nobles, facing the king, and likely nearing eighty years old, one might expect Daniel to cower and choose delicate words. Instead, he begins by rejecting Belshazzar’s offer of payment. Then he briefly explains the incident when Nebuchadnezzar was humbled by God (Daniel 4:28–33). Daniel ruthlessly proclaims that Belshazzar, Nebuchadnezzar’s descendant, has not learned the same lesson. Instead, he is rebellious, profane, and dishonorable (Daniel 5:17–23).

For that reason, says Daniel, God sent the hand to write a message for Belshazzar. This comes in the form of four words which are either Aramaic or derived from Aramaic language: mene mene tekel [and] parsin. Mene implies counting, tekel refers to weights, and parsin means separation or splitting. Daniel explains that these words are an omen. God has assessed Babylon, counted out its days, found it inferior, and planned to divide it. The nation will be conquered; Daniel subtly changes the last word from plural to singular to highlight how similar peres is to Paras, or Persia (Daniel 5:24–28).

Belshazzar makes good on his promise to give Daniel riches and honor. No other details of his reaction are given. Whatever he might have thought or said, the prophecy is fulfilled immediately. The king dies that very night; while the Bible does not say exactly how, it’s possible the city fell to a siege which had been ongoing. Daniel’s summary is extremely brief, skipping to the next important figure in his story (Daniel 5:29–31).

Chapter Context
The first four chapters of Daniel occur under the rule of Babylon’s king, Nebuchadnezzar. This chapter falls between his reign and when the Medo-Persians conquered in 539 BC. This chapter focuses on Belshazzar, who may have ruled Babylon concurrently with his father Nabonidus. This was probably from 553 BC until his death in 539 BC, when the city was captured. After this, Daniel serves under Darius and / or Cyrus.

Verse by Verse

Verse 1. King Belshazzar made a great feast for a thousand of his lords and drank wine in front of the thousand.

The identity of the king mentioned here is the subject of much debate and controversy. Archaeologists suggest that Babylon never had a king “Belshazzar,” and that Nabonidus was the final ruler of Babylon. Historical records of that era are complex, contradictory, and often vague. Untangling the threads of the debate has filled numerous books and studies.

Two main theories harmonize Scripture with secular observations. First is that Belshazzar was a regional name for Evilmerodach, son of Nebuchadnezzar, who would have ruled very briefly before being killed. This implies that the end of this chapter (Daniel 5:30–31) is a summary: glossing over other rulers to reach the king involved in chapter 6. A stronger possibility, derived from ancient records, is that Nabonidus was traveling when Babylon fell, having left his son Belshazzar as co-regent. This also makes sense of Belshazzar’s promise to make someone “third ruler” in the kingdom (Daniel 5:7). It would also imply the use of “father” in reference to Nebuchadnezzar to mean “ancestor” (Genesis 28:13; 1 Kings 2:10).

In a display of self-indulgent pride, Belshazzar hosted a massive, drunken party. It’s possible this was done to spite the forces of a Persian siege, against which the king felt invincible. Excavations of Babylon have included large rooms with plastered walls (Daniel 5:5). This was foolish enough, but the king’s celebration also included idolatry and desecrating Jewish religious artifacts (Daniel 5:2). He would soon learn the truth that excessive pride often leads directly to disaster (Proverbs 16:18).

Context Summary
Daniel 5:1–9 portrays Babylon’s king, Belshazzar, as both proud and profane. During a wine-laden, idol-worshipping celebration, the king uses captured Jewish religious articles as drinking cups. A disembodied hand suddenly appears and writes on the wall. This terrifies Belshazzar, even more so when his wise men cannot explain what has happened. What follows is Daniel’s explanation, predicting God’s judgment of Belshazzar.

Verse 2. Belshazzar, when he tasted the wine, commanded that the vessels of gold and of silver that Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken out of the temple in Jerusalem be brought, that the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines might drink from them.

Daniel made a point of mentioning Belshazzar’s drinking when introducing this incident (Daniel 5:1). Here, he includes descriptions of blasphemy. Belshazzar disrespects captured Jewish artifacts (Daniel 1:2) by using them as drinking cups while committing idolatry (Daniel 5:4). He demonstrates a total lack of disregard for God, who had commanded the consecration of those objects (Exodus 30:22–29). Nebuchadnezzar, a prior king, had come to respect the One True God (Daniel 4:34). Later kings sought to strengthen Babylon’s commitment to their traditional deities. It’s possible Belshazzar’s choice was calculated: a way of desecrating and dismissing the Hebrew religion. However, the tone of the passage suggests this was simply a crude, alcohol-fueled act of ignorance.

Belshazzar’s desecration foreshadows what will happen in the tribulation period. Revelation 17:1–4 describes the final apostasy as featuring prostitution, sexual immorality, drunkenness, and blasphemy. A proximity exists between what characterized the early years of the “times of the Gentiles,” including the rule of nations such as Babylon, and what will mark history’s closing days.

Verse 3. Then they brought in the golden vessels that had been taken out of the temple, the house of God in Jerusalem, and the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines drank from them.

After Israel left Egypt, God commanded a set of vessels be consecrated (Exodus 30:22–29). Centuries later, those were taken as spoils of war by the Babylonians (Daniel 1:1–2). It’s possible Nebuchadnezzar, who was king when they were captured, simply kept them as trophies in storage. A succeeding king is hosting an alcohol-soaked celebration with Babylonian rulers (Daniel 5:1). Belshazzar’s sacrilegious act—including acts of idolatry (Daniel 5:4)—insulted God.

In many cultures, drinking games or contests have been popular entertainment. Perhaps Belshazzar would not have initiated this perverse event if he had been sober (Proverbs 20:1; 31:4). Daniel specifies that this decision was made after Belshazzar “tasted the wine,” suggesting he was intoxicated (Daniel 5:2). Later, Daniel would tell Belshazzar that bringing the sacred vessels into the banquet hall was an act of arrogance and rebellion against the Lord (Daniel 5:23).

Verse 4. They drank wine and praised the gods of gold and silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone.

King Belshazzar and his guests (Daniel 5:1) did more than desecrate sacred vessels (Daniel 5:2–3). They were also guilty of idolatry. The context here suggests the captured artifacts (Daniel 1:1–2) were being used as part of rites honoring false pagan deities. Daniel relates that various materials from which idols were carved to emphasize that these are not living deities: they are material things made by the same men who then worship them. Lifeless statues cannot hear, see, or help their worshipers. How different is the true God, the God Most High. He invites His people to call to Him and promises, “I will answer you” (Jeremiah 33:3).

The guests followed the example of their king. He appears to have drunk heavily, and so did they. Throughout history, people have tried to imitate their national leader or leaders. Therefore, the morals of a nation’s highest political official matter. Scripture warns against drunkenness in all cases (Ephesians 5:18; Proverbs 20:1), but notes that intoxication is especially inappropriate for those in power (Proverbs 31:4).

Verse 5. Immediately the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall of the king ‘s palace, opposite the lampstand. And the king saw the hand as it wrote.

This incident is the origin of expressions such as “I can read the writing on the wall” or “the writing is on the wall.” These refer to signs of a negative outcome or impending disaster. The man who sees these letters will learn that they predict a dire fate (Daniel 5:25–28), which comes to pass that same night (Daniel 5:30).

In modern speech, the word “immediately” usually means “happening with no delay before.” The ancient words from which the Bible was translated also use it this way, but the concept can also mean “suddenly.” In this case, the Babylonian king is holding a drunken party (Daniel 5:1). As part of the fun, guests desecrate sacred Israelite vessels (Exodus 30:22–29) which had been captured years before (Daniel 1:1–2). They use these for idolatry as well as entertainment (Daniel 5:3–4). Clearly, the carousing and blasphemy took place over some time. This supernatural sign, as the guests are wallowing in sin, happens without warning or foreshadowing.

Archaeologists have unearthed large banquet halls in Babylon, which had plastered walls. This would have been an ideal surface onto which letters could be carved. This verse notes that the writing occurs directly “opposite” a lampstand: where the wall is most brightly illuminated. Further, Scripture makes a point of noting that it was only the fingers which were seen: this makes the supernatural event clear, leaving no doubt that this is more than a prank.

Some Bible teachers believe this lampstand was the seven-branched lampstand that had been in the temple at Jerusalem. That is not impossible, but such a detail is not given, nor it is necessary for the purposes of Daniel’s record.

Verse 6. Then the king ‘s color changed, and his thoughts alarmed him; his limbs gave way, and his knees knocked together.

Belshazzar’s reaction to seeing disembodied fingers writing on the wall (Daniel 5:5) is dramatic. This makes sense, as this happens directly in front of a lampstand, without warning, in the middle of a drunken, blasphemous party (Daniel 5:1–4). What’s described here is sheer terror. His color changes—probably meaning he became pale—and he becomes weak and shaky. It’s possible he collapsed in fear. He will begin shouting for his advisors (Daniel 5:7). All of this happens before Belshazzar even knows what the writing means (Daniel 5:8, 25–28), though that mystery will trigger another bout of anxiety (Daniel 5:9).

Revelation 6:12–17 presents a terrifying scene in which God’s wrath will fall. The event is so alarming that everyone will attempt to escape God’s presence, but there is no place to hide from Him (Hebrews 4:13; Luke 12:2). Revelation 20:10–15 describes final judgment, and there is no escape. Those whose names are not written in the book of life are consigned to the lake of fire, which is also called the second death because it involves eternal separation from God. But none need endure this fate. God has provided a means of rescue—Jesus Christ (John 3:16–18, 36). All who put their faith in Him receive eternal life (Romans 6:23). We live in the time of God’s patient waiting; He has not yet poured out His righteous wrath on the earth. Instead, God prolongs the offer of His grace because He does not desire that any perish (2 Peter 3:9–13). Judgment for every individual will come (Hebrews 9:27). Those who are in Christ can trust that their debt has been paid and they have been judged as righteous before God on the basis of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection (2 Corinthians 5:17–21). If you have not already done so, fear God by turning to Him in trust; receive that which is truly life (John 10:10; Ephesians 2:1–10).

Verse 7. The king called loudly to bring in the enchanters, the Chaldeans, and the astrologers. The king declared to the wise men of Babylon, “Whoever reads this writing, and shows me its interpretation, shall be clothed with purple and have a chain of gold around his neck and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.”

Belshazzar has entertained a huge party, where he and others have desecrated sacred objects, become drunk, and committed idolatry (Daniel 5:1–4). Without warning, the king sees disembodied fingers writing on the wall on a spot clearly illuminated by a lamp (Daniel 5:5). This inspires abject terror, possibly even causing the king to collapse in fright (Daniel 5:6). His next act is to cry out for help: he seems to know this is a message but does not know what it means.

Frightened people faced with life’s mysteries often look for answers wherever they can be found. Not all such answers are true, however. Not all sources are reliable. Faced with the mystery of the handwriting on the wall, Belshazzar shouted for his so-called wise men: the enchanters, the Chaldeans, and the astrologers. These men were sorcerers, scholars, and magicians. It seems the king does not recognize the words written; perhaps they are in some other script. His wise men will also be stumped (Daniel 5:8).

Belshazzar promises that whoever untangles this mystery will be “next in line” in authority behind Belshazzar himself. The mention of being “third ruler” likely connects to Belshazzar’s role as interim king. It’s likely his father was Nabonidus, the “first ruler,” and that he was away and had left Belshazzar as a regent over Babylon. The highest authority to which he can appoint someone, then, would be third. In addition, the horrified king promises wealth and prestige for anyone who can explain this event.

Verse 8. Then all the king ‘s wise men came in, but they could not read the writing or make known to the king the interpretation.

The Babylonian King Belshazzar is terrified after seeing supernatural fingers writing a message on the wall during his drunken, profane party (Daniel 5:1–5). In abject panic, he calls for his advisors and promises incredible wealth and power to anyone who can explain what has happened (Daniel 5:6–7).

This part of the book of Daniel is written in Aramaic (Daniel 2:4—7:28), and the words turn out to be Aramaic, as well (Daniel 5:25). And yet, the great wisdom of Babylon’s scholars and occultists could neither read nor interpret the writing on the wall. That educated Babylonian men could not even read the words suggests they were written in some foreign language or script. Perhaps the words were in a cipher—a scramble or coded form—or some other disguise. The inability of pagan magicians to interpret a divine message echoes what happened when Nebuchadnezzar convened his wise men to interpret his first troubling dream (Daniel 2:1–2). In that case, as well, those advisors were hopeless (Daniel 2:10–11).

God makes much of His truth plain and obvious (Romans 1:18–21; Psalm 19:1). This is meant to encourage people to seek Him (Matthew 7:7–8). Yet some truths can only be grasped with the help of God’s Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:14). God’s plan in this supernatural event is not only to send a message to Belshazzar; it also emphasizes that only those who honor the Lord have access to ultimate understanding.

Verse 9. Then King Belshazzar was greatly alarmed, and his color changed, and his lords were perplexed.

It was terrifying enough for Belshazzar to see a ghostly hand writing on the wall in the middle of his party (Daniel 5:1–7). New panic sets in when the king realizes that his court advisors—educated men—cannot even read the words, let alone explain them (Daniel 5:8). The many guests are also shocked to see Babylonian magicians and astrologers unable to even decipher the text. The mysterious event filled the entire banquet hall with dread and astonishment. Just as pagan occultists were helpless to interpret Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams (Daniel 2:10–11; 4:7), Belshazzar’s men are powerless here. Eventually, Daniel will be summoned and will explain the dire meaning of these words (Daniel 5:25–28).

Haggai 2:7 anticipates an end-time event when God will “shake all nations.” Ezekiel 38:19–20 predicts a time when God will display wrath using an earthquake. All the power, glory, and wisdom of Babylon could not stop the mysterious hand from writing on the wall, and in the end time no unbelievers will escape God’s judgment (Revelation 6:12–17; 20:11–15).

Verse 10. The queen, because of the words of the king and his lords, came into the banqueting hall, and the queen declared, “O king, live forever! Let not your thoughts alarm you or your color change.

The “queen” noted here is not one of Belshazzar’s wives or concubines (Daniel 5:1–2). Nor was she present for the blasphemous, drunken party which had been occurring (Daniel 5:3–4). She arrives in response to the king’s abject horror (Daniel 5:5–6) and shouting (Daniel 5:7–8). She may have been Belshazzar’s mother, but that is unlikely. She may have been Nebuchadnezzar’s widow or one of Nebuchadnezzar’s wives since polygamy was common in ancient times. Since the term used can mean “queen” or “queen mother,” Scripture is not explicitly clear about who she is.

Regardless of identity, the queen tried to comfort Belshazzar. She greeted him warmly, wishing him longevity and peace of mind. Obviously, she saw the pale panic in his face. The queen was likely highly regarded and respected. Apparently, she was allowed to enter the banquet hall without an invitation. The Gentile world, like Israel, venerated old age (Exodus 20:12). Her words were those of a mother or grandmother, designed to put Belshazzar in a more hopeful mood. She knows of someone who can resolve Belshazzar’s riddle (Daniel 5:11–12).

Context Summary
Daniel 5:10–16 records how Belshazzar summoned Daniel to interpret his terrifying experience (Daniel 5:5). The queen suggests consulting with Daniel, as he is known both for rare ability and his status as a captive who worships the God Belshazzar has been insulting (Daniel 5:1–4). Belshazzar admits he has no idea what the text says, or means, but he will do everything in his power to find out.

Verse 11. There is a man in your kingdom in whom is the spirit of the holy gods. In the days of your father, light and understanding and wisdom like the wisdom of the gods were found in him, and King Nebuchadnezzar, your father — your father the king — made him chief of the magicians, enchanters, Chaldeans, and astrologers,

The queen—perhaps the widow of a former ruler (Daniel 5:10)—tries to comfort the panicking Belshazzar (Daniel 5:5–8) by reminding him of another resource. She is describing Daniel, using phrases like those spoken by Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:8). She recalled for Belshazzar that Nebuchadnezzar had promoted Daniel to the position of chief of the wise men. The queen’s reference to Belshazzar’s father may identify Nebuchadnezzar as Belshazzar’s grandfather. Neither the Hebrew language nor the Chaldean language had a word for “grandfather” or “grandson.” The word “father” simply means “ancestor” or “forefather.”

This raises the question of why Daniel was not included with the wise men who assembled at Belshazzar’s first request. Though Daniel was called “chief” that does not necessarily mean he was “supervisor.” This may mean he was “best” or “greatest” of that group. In addition, it was common for a new king to dismiss wise men from a prior king. These possibilities suggest Daniel was semiretired, or not with the other advisors, when Belshazzar hosted his perverse feast (Daniel 5:1–4). It is crucial to notice that Daniel’s reputation remained unblemished through the years.

Verse 12. because an excellent spirit, knowledge, and understanding to interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve problems were found in this Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar. Now let Daniel be called, and he will show the interpretation.”

The somewhat anonymous “queen” continues to describe Daniel. She seeks to calm the horrified Belshazzar (Daniel 5:6–11) who was recently terrified by a supernatural experience (Daniel 5:5). This was prompted by his vulgar, disrespectful party which featured drinking and idolatry (Daniel 5:1–4). The queen reminds Belshazzar that even if his other advisors are stumped, Daniel is surely able to explain the mysterious writing on the wall.

Daniel is praised for his intellect, spirituality, and skill. An excellent spirit indicates a mind that excels. A person who could interpret dreams was considered inspired by the gods. The word for “problems” may be translated “knots” or “joints.” The queen’s description of Daniel must have impressed Belshazzar, who desperately wanted someone to read and interpret the handwriting on the wall. Daniel had a reputation for being able to untangle difficult riddles. She urged Belshazzar to bring in Daniel, promising that he would interpret the handwriting.

The first name the queen uses is “Daniel,” noting that his Babylonian name was given after his capture (Daniel 1:3–7). She then repeats his original name. The name Daniye’l literally means “God is my judge,” referring to the One True God of Israel. It’s probably no accident that the queen repeats his Hebrew name. Belshazzar’s entertainment included desecrating sacred Israelite objects (Exodus 30:22–29; Daniel 1:1–2). Not only is Daniel renowned for spiritual insight, but he also worships the God being disrespected during this party.

Verse 13. Then Daniel was brought in before the king. The king answered and said to Daniel, “You are that Daniel, one of the exiles of Judah, whom the king my father brought from Judah.

During a drunken, blasphemous party (Daniel 5:1–4), Belshazzar was terrified to see disembodied fingers writing on the wall (Daniel 5:5–9). The queen, or queen mother, suggested he consult with Daniel (Daniel 5:10–12). Belshazzar knows of Daniel as one of the exiles Nebuchadnezzar had taken from Judah.

Daniel had been captured by Babylon as a young man during the reign of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 1:3–7). When Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem, he also took some of the sacred objects from the temple (Daniel 1:1–2). It was these items which Belshazzar had desecrated during his carousing (Exodus 30:22–29). Not only was Daniel renowned for his ability to untangle mysteries, but he is also a faithful worshipper of the God whom Belshazzar has insulted. For this reason, it is no surprise that Belshazzar addresses him by his Hebrew name, just at the queen did—twice (Daniel 5:12).

Here, as in earlier verses, the word “father” refers to Belshazzar’s ancestor: King Nebuchadnezzar. Belshazzar’s faint knowledge of Daniel may suggest that Daniel was living in obscurity in Babylon when Belshazzar was king. However, God used the queen to put Daniel once again in the spotlight as His servant and prophet. God has a way of having His servants in the right place and at the right time (Esther 4:14).

Verse 14. I have heard of you that the spirit of the gods is in you, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom are found in you.

Belshazzar claims to have heard about Daniel’s skills, though he may be merely repeating what the queen had just told him (Daniel 5:10–12). Despite worshipping idols and blaspheming sacred objects (Exodus 30:22–29; Daniel 1:1–2) taken from Israel (Daniel 5:1–4), Belshazzar made a point of referring to Daniel using his Hebrew name (Daniel 5:13). It’s possible he suspected that his actions angered the God of Israel, triggering the supernatural sight of a hand writing on the wall (Daniel 5:5). This seems to have terrified the king enough that he will do anything to know what the words mean (Daniel 5:6–9). On the queen’s urging he had summoned Daniel.

Babylon’s so-called wise men had failed to interpret the text. In fact, they could not even read it—suggesting it was in some other language, code, or cipher. Yet Daniel had access to wisdom far superior to theirs (Daniel 1:17; 2:30). Knowledge of God and relationship with His Spirit are necessary to fully understand His will (Colossians 2:2–3; 1 Corinthians 2:14).

Verse 15. Now the wise men, the enchanters, have been brought in before me to read this writing and make known to me its interpretation, but they could not show the interpretation of the matter.

During a profane, drunken celebration, Babylon’s king, Belshazzar, saw a supernatural hand writing on the wall (Daniel 5:1–5). In terror, he tried to learn what this meant, eventually summoning Daniel at the urging of the queen (Daniel 5:6–13). Belshazzar admitted that his wise men had failed to read the handwriting on the wall and had not been able to interpret it. In fact, they had not even been able to read it (Daniel 5:8).

The king’s admission comments on the emptiness of Babylon’s wisdom. As it pertains to spiritual truth, worldly wisdom is woefully lacking. Just as Babylon’s wise men could not discern the message God sent (Daniel 5:23–24) to Belshazzar, so the wisdom of even the best educated men and women today fails to discern the message God has written in the Bible. Intellect is important, but to truly grasp spiritual truth, a person must know God’s Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:14). The apostle Paul declares in 2 Corinthian 4:3–4: “And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case [the Devil] has blinded the minds of unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”

Verse 16. But I have heard that you can give interpretations and solve problems. Now if you can read the writing and make known to me its interpretation, you shall be clothed with purple and have a chain of gold around your neck and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.”

As with his prior comments (Daniel 5:14), it’s possible Belshazzar is merely repeating what he heard from the queen mother (Daniel 5:10–13). Whether he knew much about Daniel, or not, he is desperate to learn what the supernatural writing on the wall of his banquet hall means (Daniel 5:5–9). He promises Daniel the significant rewards he promised his wise men (Daniel 5:7).

If Daniel reads and interprets the handwriting, Belshazzar will adorn him with royal clothes, drape a gold chain around his neck, and make him the third ruler in Babylon. This corresponds to the theory that Nabonidus was the “first ruler,” meaning the actual king, and his son Belshazzar was the “second ruler” or regent. Apparently, Nabonidus has married one of Nebuchadnezzar’s daughters, therefore Belshazzar was Nebuchadnezzar’s grandson from his mother’s side of the family. The rewards Belshazzar promised Daniel in return for the reading and interpretation of the mysterious handwriting show how desperate Belshazzar was for an answer. These were the highest rewards he could confer on Daniel.

Verse 17. Then Daniel answered and said before the king, “Let your gifts be for yourself, and give your rewards to another. Nevertheless, I will read the writing to the king and make known to him the interpretation.

Depending on how one interprets the dates involved, Daniel may have been eighty years old when he was called before Belshazzar (Daniel 5:11–12). That makes his words even more impressive. Such fearlessness can be attributed only to Daniel’s confidence in God’s power to protect him.

Daniel’s nerve is demonstrated, first, by refusing the king’s offer of reward. While this might be taken as a sign of loyalty and love, it was more likely seen as an act of separation. Centuries earlier, Abraham rescued his nephew Lot and others from Sodom who had been taken captive. When the king of Sodom offered to reward Abram, Abram flatly refused the offer. In fact, he made a point of saying he wanted no one to say he’d become rich thanks to a man like the king of Sodom (Genesis 14:22–24). Afterwards, the Lord appeared to Abram in a vision, and promised him a reward for his great faith (Genesis 15:1).

Courage is also shown in Daniel’s firm confidence that he can explain the disturbing vision (Daniel 5:5). He shows no doubt in God’s readiness to reveal the meaning of the handwriting. In fact, he speaks as someone who already knows what the incident means. Daniel’s nerve will extend to what comes next: a direct, thorough criticism of Belshazzar’s arrogance and dishonor (Daniel 5:23).

Context Summary
Daniel 5:17–28 reveals Daniel’s humility, his loyalty to the Most High God, and his courage. Daniel read and interpreted the handwriting. God is judging Babylon: the empire will be defeated and split among the Medes and Persians. Though Daniel said he wanted no payment, his interpretation prompts the rewards from Belshazzar, which were likely as short-lived as he was (Daniel 5:29–30).

Verse 18. O king, the Most High God gave Nebuchadnezzar your father kingship and greatness and glory and majesty.

Daniel was summoned to interpret a terrifying incident where King Belshazzar saw disembodied fingers writing on the wall (Daniel 5:1–5). Daniel’s first comments are to dismiss the king’s offer of reward and express confidence that he can explain what has happened (Daniel 5:17). Yet he speaks as if he already knows the answer. Here, he begins speaking about a prior king, Nebuchadnezzar. This is meant to set up Daniel’s scathing criticism of Belshazzar as an unrepentant, profane, arrogant man (Daniel 5:23).

Nebuchadnezzar’s fame was known far and wide. His glory was unprecedented. He beautified Babylon and his palace. He launched many building projects and commanded a powerful army. No one could doubt his authority over all his subjects. But he owed his greatness, glory, and majesty to God. Near the end of his life, he was humbled by the Lord and forced to admit his own need (Daniel 4:34–37).

This passage clearly shows that Belshazzar rejected the Most High God and refused to acknowledge His Lordship. Belshazzar praised heathen deities. His faith was placed in idols who did not see, hear, or do him any good. Romans 1:22–23 indicts the unbeliever who acts like Belshazzar: “claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.”

Verse 19. And because of the greatness that he gave him, all peoples, nations, and languages trembled and feared before him. Whom he would, he killed, and whom he would, he kept alive; whom he would, he raised up, and whom he would, he humbled.

This history lesson involves Nebuchadnezzar, a prior king of Babylon. It was Nebuchadnezzar who conquered Israel and took captives, including Daniel (Daniel 1:1–7). It was Nebuchadnezzar whom the Lord depicted in a dream as the golden head of a symbolic statue (Daniel 2:36–38). Nebuchadnezzar held the authority to decide who would be executed and who would be allowed to live. He threatened advisors with horrible death if they failed him (Daniel 2:5). His pride is also seen in his order to have executed whoever refused to worship his golden image (Daniel 3:5–6). He also had the authority to remove men from high positions in Babylon and replace them with others (Daniel 2:48–49; 3:30).

Yet it was also Nebuchadnezzar whom God degraded with madness to teach him humility (Daniel 4:24–25; 5:20). Belshazzar—the profane, drunken king (Daniel 5:1–4)—has not learned from that example. The terrifying vision he saw (Daniel 5:5) is a sign of judgment (Daniel 5:23–28).

Verse 20. But when his heart was lifted up and his spirit was hardened so that he dealt proudly, he was brought down from his kingly throne, and his glory was taken from him.

Belshazzar’s blasphemous, drunken party (Daniel 5:1–4) was interrupted by a terrifying event (Daniel 5:5). This led to Daniel being summoned to explain the disembodied fingers writing on the wall (Daniel 5:16). Daniel begins by dismissing the king’s offer of reward (Daniel 5:17) and launching into a history lesson. This is no accident: Daniel is contrasting Belshazzar with a prior king, Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 1:1–7). Nebuchadnezzar was incredibly powerful, but God humbled him (Daniel 4:24–37).

As promised in a prophetic dream, Nebuchadnezzar was confronted with God’s judgment (Daniel 4:28–33). Immediately, God’s punishment fell, and soon Nebuchadnezzar’s ego was completely deflated. The Bible states that God hates “haughty eyes” (Proverbs 6:16–17) and warns that pride and arrogance lead to self-destruction (Proverbs 16:18). The apostle James writes that “God opposes the proud” (James 4:6). He counsels: “Submit yourselves therefore to God” (James 4:7). Nebuchadnezzar learned the hard way that it is wise to discard pride and submit to God.

Belshazzar, however, did not learn the same lesson. Showing incredible grit, Daniel is setting up a scathing criticism of the current king, contrasting Belshazzar’s foolishness with the example of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 5:22–23).

Verse 21. He was driven from among the children of mankind, and his mind was made like that of a beast, and his dwelling was with the wild donkeys. He was fed grass like an ox, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, until he knew that the Most High God rules the kingdom of mankind and sets over it whom he will.

This summarizes the punishment which God sent on Babylon’s prior king, Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:28–33). To humble the arrogant ruler, the Lord drove him into insanity and an animal-like state. He no longer thought like a man, instead he thought like an animal. He no longer ate like a human being, instead he ate like an animal. While living and eating like an animal, with animals, his body was exposed to the elements. This debased condition continued until he recognized that the Most High God rules the world and gives power to whomever He chooses (Daniel 4:34–37). The prior chapter explained how God’s humbling of Nebuchadnezzar accomplished His purpose.

Daniel is reiterating this history (Daniel 5:18–20) for a reason. The current king, Belshazzar, summoned Daniel in panic after seeing a frightening event. In the middle of a drunken, profane celebration (Daniel 5:1–4), he saw ethereal fingers writing on the wall (Daniel 5:5). Daniel was summoned to explain this (Daniel 5:16). Daniel refuses any reward then begins this history lesson, leading up to an incredibly blunt—and very courageous—rebuke of Belshazzar’s foolishness (Daniel 5:23). What makes the current king’s actions so absurd is that he knows what happened to Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 5:22) and should have learned, accordingly (Proverbs 19:25; 21:11).

Verse 22. And you his son, Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart, though you knew all this,

True to his calling as a prophet of God, Daniel delivered God’s message faithfully and fearlessly—one might even say ruthlessly. King Belshazzar summoned Daniel to explain a supernatural sign which interrupted his blasphemous, drunken party (Daniel 5:1–5). Daniel immediately dismissed the king’s offer for payment (Daniel 5:17) and began describing the experience of a prior king, Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:28–33; 5:18–21).

That history lesson now rises to a direct accusation: Belshazzar, a descendant of Nebuchadnezzar, knows about these events already. Yet he has learned nothing from them. Instead, he is arrogant. Belshazzar’s defiance of God demonstrates how the human heart “is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick” (Jeremiah 17:9). Despite having more than enough knowledge (Romans 1:18–20; John 5:39–40), he rejected God anyway.

Daniel will not stop there, however. He will continue to rebuke the king’s blasphemy (Daniel 5:23) and explain that the sign predicts dire judgment (Daniel 5:24–28). A preacher today should strive to be as courageous as Daniel, delivering God’s Word in truth and love to people as they are. The apostle Paul charged young Pastor Timothy with the responsibility to “preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching” (2 Timothy 4:2).

Verse 23. but you have lifted up yourself against the Lord of heaven. And the vessels of his house have been brought in before you, and you and your lords, your wives, and your concubines have drunk wine from them. And you have praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood, and stone, which do not see or hear or know, but the God in whose hand is your breath, and whose are all your ways, you have not honored.

Daniel’s courageous, scathing indictment of Belshazzar continues (Daniel 5:22). After reminding the king about the experience of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:28–33; 5:18–21), Daniel now addresses the event which God’s supernatural sign interrupted (Daniel 5:1–5).

Belshazzar’s inebriated, blasphemous actions are described as direct rebellion against “the Lord of heaven.” Though he knew about Nebuchadnezzar’s encounter with the God of Israel, Belshazzar still chose to use Jewish holy objects (Daniel 5:1–2) as toys for drinking, and tools for idolatry. Failure to learn from Nebuchadnezzar’s example was one thing, but to actively desecrate the name of Israel’s God and use His objects (Exodus 30:22–29) to worship idols was even worse.

A deep contrast can be seen in the reaction of New Testament converts in Thessalonica. When they heard the gospel, they “turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God” (1 Thessalonians 1:9). Belshazzar’s refusal to see what God made clear (Romans 1:18–20; John 5:39–40) displayed his arrogance. Only when that brutally direct rebuke has been made does Daniel explain why it inspired God to send a sign, and what that sign means (Daniel 5:24–28).

Verse 24. “Then from his presence the hand was sent, and this writing was inscribed.

In this verse Daniel finally addresses the subject for which King Belshazzar summoned him (Daniel 5:16). Babylonian royalty were enjoying an alcohol-soaked party, including the use of sacred Jewish religious vessels (Exodus 30:22–29; Daniel 1:1–2) for drinking toasts to idols (Daniel 5:1–4). This was interrupted by disembodied fingers making letters on the wall (Daniel 5:5). This horrified the king and baffled his other advisors (Daniel 5:6–9). Yet when Daniel first arrived, he did not immediately explain the words. Instead, he describes the humbling experience of a prior king, Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:28–33; 5:18–21). Daniel, likely eighty years old and still a captive under the empire of Babylon, uses that history as a foundation to upbraid Belshazzar for arrogance and blasphemy (Daniel 5:22–23).

Now, Daniel explains that the sign is from his God: the Most High God of Israel. The Lord delivered this message, in part, because of Belshazzar’s recent sins. But the writing on the wall has more to do with God’s perfect timing than a single act of idolatry driving Him into action. Daniel’s speech makes it clear that Belshazzar hadn’t followed God prior to this event. The idolatry and disrespect of the evening were just the latest effects of his rejection of the Lord.

Sometimes, God chooses to let an unbeliever’s pride and blasphemy build up to a peak before He unleashes judgment. In the New Testament, King Herod was already known for wickedness and unbelief. When he delivered a speech and accepted praise as a god, the Lord struck him with a horrific and fatal disease (Acts 12:20–23). Belshazzar’s fate is being announced in a moment where he has no excuse—to the Lord or even to other men—about the depths of his sin.

Verse 25. And this is the writing that was inscribed: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, and PARSIN.

Disembodied fingers wrote these words in the hall where Babylon’s King Belshazzar was drunkenly defiling sacred Jewish objects (Daniel 5:1–5). Only Daniel can explain what this means (Daniel 5:6–17). He began by making it clear that Belshazzar was an arrogant, idolatrous man who had spit in the face of the Most High God (Daniel 5:22–24).

The words described here are Aramaic, the language in which Daniel recorded this entire section (Daniel 2:4—7:28). The fact that the other wise men cannot even read them (Daniel 5:8) implies the words were written in some kind of code, or foreign script. Translators sometimes decide to translate only one of the words, leaving the others in their original form. Others note that the word “and” was also recorded in Aramaic, and in those cases the last word is recorded as uparsin or upharsin, rather than “and parsin.”

Mene refers to a particular weight; the term comes from a root word meaning “to number” or “to gauge.” It leans more towards the idea of a quantity—a number—than other terms. That this is repeated suggests a careful, thorough examination.

Similarly, tekel represents measurement, but is more closely tied to weight. Weights were often used to check the purity of substances: ensuring they were made of the correct material. Failing this test implied that something inferior had been found.

Peres was also used for counting, since the root word suggests something being split or separated into smaller parts.

One possible rendering of these words might be, “a counting, a counting…a weighing and divisions!” As Daniel will explain, these terms combine to proclaim that God has assessed Babylon, found it lacking, and will split it apart (Daniel 5:26–28).

Verse 26. This is the interpretation of the matter: MENE, God has numbered the days of your kingdom and brought it to an end;

Daniel is giving a more detailed explanation of the mysterious writing (Daniel 5:25) which appeared on the wall during Belshazzar’s party (Daniel 1:1–5). Before the interpretation, Daniel made a point of criticizing Belshazzar for being foolish and profane (Daniel 5:17–23). The words—possibly written in some cipher or foreign script (Daniel 5:8)—are either Aramaic or words closely resembling it: mene, mene, tekel, and parsin.

The term mene refers to counting and measuring, especially in the sense of numbering something. That the term is repeated suggests exhaustive investigation. The word can also imply “reckoning,” which fits with the theme of God’s judgment. Another possible reason for the repetition is to use the idea of “counting” in more than one way: that God is aware of the number of days allotted to Babylon, and also that He has “counted” as those days were exhausted.

A century before the Babylonian kingdom fell, God had said, “Now I have given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, my servant, and I have given him also the beasts of the field to serve him. All the nations shall serve him and his son and his grandson, until the time of his own land comes. Then many nations and great kings shall make him their slave” (Jeremiah 27:6–7). God has numbered the days of every nation, and He is fully capable of ending one and bringing another to prominence. No human being can guarantee themselves any length of life: only God knows what the future holds. It is wise, therefore, to live every day in obedience to will (James 4:13¬–15).

Verse 27. TEKEL, you have been weighed in the balances and found wanting;

Daniel continues the interpretation of the mysterious handwriting on the palace wall (Daniel 5:5, 24–25).

Tekel suggests a weight, such as those used to assess precious metals or money. Quantities of coins not weighing the right amount were suspect—and probably corrupted with counterfeits or impurities. A balance was often used for this purpose. Some dishonest merchants would use false weights to cheat (Proverbs 11:1; 20:23). When the payment didn’t match an honest weight, it was rejected. God had weighed Belshazzar’s moral and spiritual character and determined that it fell short of the standard of His righteousness. Therefore, God rejected Belshazzar. Very soon, he would lose his kingdom. Belshazzar’s sinful character showed in his pride, his drunken feast, his promiscuity, his blasphemy, his desecration of the temple vessels, and his idolatry (Daniel 5:1–4).

While Belshazzar’s example was extreme, Romans 3:23 teaches that every person fails to meet God’s perfect standard. Everyone falls short of God’s glory. A self-righteous person may think his morality parallels God’s, but the Bible compares every human’s righteous deeds to “a polluted garment” (Isaiah 64:6). Romans 3:10 says, “None is righteous, no, not one.” The only remedy is to be cleansed by Jesus’ blood (Romans 5:8–9).

Context Summary
Daniel 5:17–28 reveals Daniel’s humility, his loyalty to the Most High God, and his courage. Daniel read and interpreted the handwriting. God is judging Babylon: the empire will be defeated and split among the Medes and Persians. Though Daniel said he wanted no payment, his interpretation prompts the rewards from Belshazzar, which were likely as short-lived as he was (Daniel 5:29–30).

Verse 28. PERES, your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians.”

This is the last part of Daniel’s interpretation of the strange writing (Daniel 5:5) which appeared during Belshazzar’s blasphemous feast (Daniel 5:1–4). The phrase “mene mene tekel and parsin” was formed by disembodied fingers. The first three words meant King Belshazzar, and Babylon, had been measured and found lacking, according to God (Daniel 5:25–27).

The root word for parsin implies a division, a split, or a separation. This was used as the name of a half-coin. The writing on the wall used a plural noun, but Daniel subtly changes it here to a singular: peres, which sounds very much like the name for Persia, which was Paras. When Daniel interpreted Nebuchadnezzar’s dream many years prior, he predicted that a “lesser” nation would come after Babylon (Daniel 2:39), characterized as a chest and arms of silver (Daniel 2:32). This echoes the nature of the Medo-Persian Empire which came when Babylon fell. Cyrus the Great was associated with Persia, and Darius with the Medes. The Persians were the most powerful part of the Medo-Persian empire, although Darius the Mede was the first to become the ruler of Babylon.

Nebuchadnezzar learned the hard way to acknowledge that God rules and gives power to whomever He chooses (Daniel 4:32, 34–35). Belshazzar had felt secure; historians suggest this wild party may have happened during a siege of the well-defended and fortified capital city. Belshazzar did not realize that God’s hand of judgment would tear apart his false sense of security. His kingdom was about to fall to the Medes and Persians.

Verse 29. Then Belshazzar gave the command, and Daniel was clothed with purple, a chain of gold was put around his neck, and a proclamation was made about him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom.

When Belshazzar first sought an explanation for his terrifying encounter (Daniel 5:5), he promised great power and wealth to anyone who could give him an answer (Daniel 5:7). In an example of tremendous nerve, Daniel not only dismissed the offer (Daniel 5:17), but he then scolded King Belshazzar for his blasphemy and hard-headed sin (Daniel 5:18–23). Daniel explained that the writing was an omen, predicting that the Babylonian kingdom would be defeated and divided (Daniel 5:24–28).

Scripture does not record how Belshazzar took this news. It simply notes that the king made good on his promise. Daniel is immediately dressed in finery and proclaimed the “third ruler.” Scholars believe this is because Belshazzar was acting as a regent—second-in-command—while his father, Nabonidus, the “first ruler” and true king, was away. It is remarkable that a pagan Gentile ruler would elevate Daniel, a Hebrew and captive exile (Daniel 1:3–7), to such a prominent position. However, God was working in the situation to make this happen. It’s possible the king was trying to appeal to Daniel for forgiveness. He may have thought he could appease the Lord…but it was too late. As the next verse notes, Belshazzar met his death that very night (Daniel 5:30).

Babylon had conquered Jerusalem and taken Daniel and others captive, but God moved Belshazzar to honor one of those captives, and very soon He would use the Persians to conquer Babylon. God works in wondrous ways to accomplish His will.

Context Summary
Daniel 5:29–31 is the abrupt conclusion to this supernatural incident. The same night that Belshazzar saw ethereal fingers writing on the wall (Daniel 5:5), he consulted with Daniel. Daniel proclaimed doom, and what he predicted came to pass within hours. This ending, while brief, transitions the story from Belshazzar’s Babylon to Daniel’s time serving under the Medo-Persian empire.

Verse 30. That very night Belshazzar the Chaldean king was killed.

The night Daniel interpreted the handwriting on the wall (Daniel 5:1–5) was the very night Belshazzar drew his last breath. In the strictest sense, we are not sure exactly what happened to Belshazzar. The only two details we’re given are that he died and this occurred the very same night. Likewise, the following verse might well have skipped over political events to reach the background of Daniel’s next story (Daniel 6:1–3).

At one time, a Persian siege cleverly got around Babylon’s defenses by diverting a river and entering under a sluice gate. That might have occurred when Belshazzar was minding the city on behalf of Nabonidus, his father, who was away at the time. It’s also possible the king died that night from some other cause—the point of the story is not so much “how” the prophecy was fulfilled as the fact that it came true.

In the historical event regarding the river, the Persian army invaded through the wall’s river openings and the city surrendered without a fight. Historians date Babylon’s fall as the 16th of Tishri, or October 12, 539 BC. Isaiah 13:20, 47:1–5, and Jeremiah 51:43 prophesy a complete devastation of Babylon, but that did not happen when the Persians conquered Babylon. This prophesied event awaits the tribulation. The final overthrow of Babylon and her corrupt allies is previewed in Psalm 2:4–6 and fulfilled in Revelation 19:15–16, when Jesus returns to earth.

Verse 31. And Darius the Mede received the kingdom, being about sixty-two years old.

This verse records that fact that Darius the Mede took over the kingdom of Babylon. It’s possible Daniel skipped over some political developments between the death of Belshazzar and the rule of Darius. Historians struggle with this passage and how best to harmonize it with archaeology. It’s possible Darius and Cyrus (Daniel 6:28) are different names for the same person. It’s also possible that one was “appointed” to power over the city of Babylon while the other ruled the entire kingdom. The details given in Scripture are limited, leaving room for options which are subject to debate.

Darius, the son of Hystaspes, was apparently the rightful heir to the throne of Persia, having descended along with Cyrus from the royal line of Persia. He abolished local kingdoms and principalities; he divided the empire into satrapies, with each satrap overseen by a Persian with supreme authority over civil affairs. The Persian official also commanded a division of the army. Judges were appointed with assigned circuits, royal roads stretched everywhere, and Susa and Persepolis were Darius’s capital cities. With the transfer of power from Belshazzar to Darius the truth is apparent that the Lord puts down one king and raises up another (Psalm 75:7).

End of Daniel Chapter 5

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