Latest Commentaries

King Darius was distressed but was required by law to throw Daniel in the lion’s den.

Although Daniel knew the decree had been signed he continued praying, the rulers accused him before the king.

The other rulers convince the king to sign a decree that prohibits petitioning anyone besides the king.

The new king, Darius, reorganizes the kingdom with Daniel in a prominent position.

Belshazzar rewards Daniel for his interpretation, making him third ruler in the kingdom. That night, Belshazzar is killed—and Darius the Mede takes over rulership.

The meaning of the words, MENĒ, MENĒ, TEKĒL, UPHARSIN, is that God will bring Belshazzar’s kingdom to an end because He has judged Belshazzar as an unfit ruler. Therefore, God will give Babylon to the Medes and the Persians.

Daniel concludes by telling Belshazzar that he is not like Nebuchadnezzar. He, Belshazzar, has not humbled his heart before God, rather he has exalted himself against God by drinking from the Jerusalem cups and worshipping lifeless idols. The hand was sent by God in response.

Daniel further reminds Belshazzar that Nebuchadnezzar was humiliated by God because of his pride. For seven years, the king lived like a wild animal, until he acknowledged that God is the true ruler of mankind, and grants authority as He chooses.

Daniel rejects the promised reward but assures the king he will interpret the words on the wall. First, Daniel reminds Belshazzar that God gave Nebuchadnezzar power and majesty over all men.

Daniel is summoned to King Belshazzar. The King lists all of Daniel’s abilities and accomplishments, and promises great reward if Daniel can interpret the writing on the wall.

The Queen arrives and reminds Belshazzar of Daniel, who was famous for having insight and godly wisdom. Daniel can help in this situation, because he always accurately interpreted the dreams of Nebuchadnezzar.

A hand appears and carves words into the wall. King Belshazzar is terrified to see this strange sight. He calls all of his magicians and wisemen to interpret the message, but none can. Everyone is alarmed and confused.

At a great feast, King Belshazzar drunkenly calls for the Jerusalem temple cups to be brought from the treasury. He and his nobles, wives, and concubines drink from these sacred cups and then worship idols.

Again, as predicted, once seven years had passed, Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged that it is God who rules and he received his kingdom back.

All that Daniel predicted would happen to Nebuchadnezzar is fulfilled.

Daniel finishes interpreting the dream and implores the king to change his ways.

Daniel begins interpreting the king’s dream.

Daniel is hesitant to tell the king the interpretation of his dream.

The angel finishes telling Nebuchadnezzar what will happen. Here he tells him why it will happen.

Nebuchadnezzar continues recounting his dream, repeating what the angelic watcher told him.