Understanding Daniel 5:6

Context of the Verse: Daniel 5:6 occurs during the feast of Belshazzar, the king of Babylon, where he witnesses a mysterious hand writing on the wall. The king’s reaction is one of fear and anxiety, as his countenance changes and his thoughts trouble him, illustrating an immediate sense of dread in response to an ominous event. This verse sets the stage for a significant revelation concerning divine judgment.

Summary of Interpretations: Commentaries shed light on the profound implications of Belshazzar's reaction. Here we present insights from notable public domain commentaries, including those by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke:

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the psychological turmoil experienced by Belshazzar. He highlights that the writings on the wall signify a divine warning—a message from God meant to reveal the impending doom before him. The distress of the king reflects humanity's natural response to divine judgment, exposing the futility of relying on earthly power in the face of God's authority.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes notes the frightful transformation in Belshazzar’s demeanor, interpreting it as an illustration of the fear of the Lord confronting those who oppose Him. He points out that the king’s heart was gripped by fear, highlighting the importance of recognizing the power of God over human affairs. The peculiar manifestation serves as both a divine message and a reminder of accountability before God.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke delves into the significance of the king's reaction, describing it as one of the strongest possible forms of dread. He connects this emotion to the broader narrative of judgment, underscoring that God's intervention is intentional and impactful. Clarke sees this moment as a critical turning point that emphasizes God’s sovereignty over earthly kingdoms.

Cross-References: To understand Daniel 5:6 more deeply, it is beneficial to explore related biblical passages that emphasize themes of divine authority, judgment, and human response:

• Isaiah 14:27 - Illustrates God’s ultimate power over nations and leaders.
• Proverbs 21:1 - Highlights how the heart of a king is in the Lord's hand, which can reflect God’s control over earthly rulers.
• Jeremiah 25:17-29 - Discusses judgment against nations, aligning with the themes of warning and accountability.
• Revelation 18:2 - Depicts the fall of Babylon, creating a direct thematic connection to Belshazzar’s fate.
• Luke 12:5 - Teaches to fear Him who has the power to cast into hell, resembling Belshazzar's fear of divine judgment.
• Matthew 10:28 - Reinforces the concept of fearing God over men, reflecting the distress shown by Belshazzar.
• Philippians 2:10-11 - Speaks of every knee bowing at the name of Jesus, pointing towards the authority of God to which Belshazzar is ultimately accountable.

Thematic Connections: Daniel 5:6 serves as a reminder of God's omnipotent presence and the sober reality of divine judgment. Through cross-referencing biblical texts, we can draw parallels with biblical themes such as:

• Human folly in the face of divine authority.
• The immediate fear elicited by divine messages.
• Consequences of pride and disobedience to God’s commandments.
• The importance of recognizing God's sovereignty in all aspects of life.

Conclusion: Daniel 5:6 is a potent reminder of the fear of the Lord and serves as an elemental warning against the disregard for divine authority. By studying related verses and considering the insights of esteemed commentators, we gain a clearer picture of how this event fits into the overarching narrative of God's dominion and the human condition. The connections between Bible verses deepen our understanding and allow for a comprehensive study of scripture that informs our faith and encourages us to remain mindful of God's presence and judgment.