Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary on Daniel 5:30

Daniel 5:30: "In that night was Belshazzar the king of the Chaldeans slain."

Overview of the Verse

Daniel 5:30 recounts the sudden demise of Belshazzar, the last king of Babylon, marking a crucial moment in Biblical history. This verse symbolizes the immediate judgment of God upon a leader who disregards divine authority and sacredness. The context reflects the culmination of Belshazzar's profane actions during a feast where sacred objects were misused, contrasting earthly kingship with divine sovereignty.

Commentary Insights

This verse is steeped in rich meanings, with interpretations stemming from key commentaries:

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy, linking Belshazzar's fall to the divine judgment pronounced on nations that oppose God's will. His commentary highlights the moral lesson that pride and sacrilege lead to downfall. Belshazzar's disregard for the consecrated vessels from the temple, in the context of a drunken feast, serves as a reminder of the consequences of irreverence towards God.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes elaborates on the historical context, outlining that the empire's collapse occurred as foreseen by Daniel. The night of the feast was marked by divine retribution, illustrating that the kingdom was taken away as a direct result of Belshazzar's blasphemous acts. Barnes underlines the finality of God's judgment and the transition from human pride to divine sovereignty.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke's discourse on the verse delves into the implications of the suddenness of Belshazzar's death. He notes that the verse serves as an example of how quickly circumstances can change under divine providence. His analysis points to the responsibility of leaders and the weight of spiritual accountability within governance, emphasizing that God's will prevails despite human arrogance.

Spiritual and Theological Significance

The pivotal moment captured in Daniel 5:30 serves to convey that God ultimately governs the affairs of humanity. Belshazzar's fate is a stark reminder for all leaders and people about the reverence owed to God. It demonstrates:

• The Sovereignty of God:

  God's control over kingdoms and rulers ensures that justice is served. Belshazzar's downfall signifies the end of Babylonian empire, illustrating that no earthly power can withstand divine will.

• The Consequences of Sin:

  The verse serves to highlight the severe consequences of sin, especially for those in power. In ignoring God’s statutes, Belshazzar invited inevitable ruin, reinforcing the need for humility and respect for the holy.

• Immediate Judgment:

  God’s judgment can be immediate and without warning. This thought underlines the importance of maintaining a righteous and faithful life.

Application for Today

This verse prompts readers to reflect on:

• How one honors sacred things in life and the consequences of taking them lightly.
• The importance of being accountable for actions, particularly in positions of influence.
• Recognizing the transient nature of power and the need for moral integrity.

Related Bible Cross References

• Isaiah 47:1-5 - Prophecies against Babylon.
• Jeremiah 50:1-3 - Judgment against Babylon.
• Revelation 18:1-2 - The fall of Babylon as a symbol of sin.

Final Thoughts

Daniel 5:30 serves not just as a historical account but as a profound teaching moment for readers. The finality of Belshazzar's judgment encourages understanding the weight of actions and the gravity of one's choices, both in personal belief and leadership.

Conclusion

In studying this verse, individuals can deepen their understanding of scripture and appreciate the timeless truths found within God's Word. As you explore further through Bible study resources and tools, remember the significance of divine authority and the attributes of God's judgment being both just and inevitable.