The word Bêlṭᵉshaʼtstsar, represented by H1095, is of foreign derivation and is known as the Babylonian name given to Daniel. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, signifying a specific context within the life of the prophet.
In the biblical narrative, H1095 is introduced as part of an effort to assimilate Daniel and his companions into Babylonian culture. The prince of the eunuchs assigns this new name to Daniel, while also renaming Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah Daniel 1:7. Later, the name is used to identify the prophet in the context of divine revelation, where a vision is revealed "unto Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar" in the third year of king Cyrus Daniel 10:1.
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding the giving of this name:
- H1840 Dânîyêʼl (judge of God): This is the Hebrew name of the individual given the name Belteshazzar. The verse that introduces Belteshazzar explicitly states it was given "unto Daniel" Daniel 1:7.
- H8034 shêm (an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality): This word is central to the event, as the act of giving a new name was intended to mark a new identity. The prince of the eunuchs "gave names" to Daniel and his friends Daniel 1:7.
- H4332 Mîyshâʼêl (who (is) what God (is)?): One of Daniel's companions who was also renamed at the same time, receiving the name Meshach Daniel 1:7. This shows the renaming was a systematic process applied to the group.
- H5838 ʻĂzaryâh (Jah has helped): Another of the companions renamed alongside Daniel, who was given the name Abed-nego Daniel 1:7.
The significance of H1095 is found in the context of identity and faithfulness under pressure.
- Imposed Identity: The assignment of the name Belteshazzar was an attempt by a foreign power to supplant Daniel's Hebrew identity, which was rooted in his God Daniel 1:7.
- Unchanged Character: Immediately following the renaming, Daniel "purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself" with the king's provisions Daniel 1:8. This demonstrates that while his name was changed, his core character and devotion to God remained steadfast.
- Divine Acknowledgment: God continued to communicate with the prophet regardless of the name men used for him. A significant revelation was given to Daniel under his Babylonian name, showing that God's connection to His servant transcends earthly labels Daniel 10:1.
In summary, H1095 is not merely a foreign name but a symbol of the tension between worldly assimilation and divine faithfulness. It was given to Dânîyêʼl H1840 by his captors Daniel 1:7, yet it did not redefine him. His steadfast character and his reception of divine truth while being called Belteshazzar Daniel 10:1 prove that a person's true identity is found in their relationship with God, not in the names or titles assigned by the world.
TRV