lemma בֵּלְשַׁאצּר missing vowel, corrected to בֵּלְשַׁאצַּר; (Aramaic) corresponding to בֵּלְשַׁאצַּר; {Belshatstsar, a Babylonian king}; Belshazzar.
Transliteration:Bêlshaʼtstsar
Pronunciation:bale-shats-tsar'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The entry H1113, בֵּלְשַׁאצַּר (Bêlshaʼtstsar), is an Aramaic proper noun referring to a specific historical figure: Belshazzar, a Babylonian king. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to the individual it designates. The name itself is of Babylonian origin, commonly understood to mean "Bel protect the king" or "Bel's prince," with "Bel" being a prominent Babylonian deity, often identified with Marduk, the chief god of Babylon. Thus, the name carries an inherent theological significance rooted in Babylonian polytheism, contrasting sharply with the monotheism of the God of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Belshazzar appears exclusively in the Book of Daniel, playing a pivotal role in the narrative concerning the fall of Babylon. His most significant appearance is in [[Daniel 5:1-31]], which recounts his infamous feast, the mysterious writing on the wall, Daniel's interpretation, and Belshazzar's subsequent death. This chapter depicts him as the reigning king of Babylon, holding a great feast where he sacrilegiously uses the gold and silver vessels plundered from the temple in Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. This act of profanation directly precedes the divine judgment inscribed on the wall.
He is also mentioned in [[Daniel 7:1]], where Daniel has a vision "in the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon," and in [[Daniel 8:1]], where Daniel has another vision "in the third year of the reign of King Belshazzar." These references establish his reign as a specific historical period during which Daniel received prophetic revelations. Historically, Belshazzar is understood to have been the son and co-regent of Nabonidus, the last Neo-Babylonian king, and his reign culminated in the city's capture by the Medes and Persians. The biblical account in Daniel 5 aligns with the historical reality of Babylon's sudden fall.
### Related Words & Concepts
Belshazzar's story is intertwined with several key words and concepts. The deity "Bel" (often associated with `{{H1167}}` Ba'al or Marduk) is intrinsically linked to his name, highlighting the pagan context of his rule. His father, Nabonidus (though not directly named in Daniel, his historical connection is vital for understanding Belshazzar's role), represents the lineage of the Babylonian kings. The conquering powers, "Media" (`{{H4074}}`) and "Persia" (`{{H6539}}`), are directly responsible for his downfall and the end of the Babylonian Empire.
The narrative also heavily involves the prophet Daniel (`{{H1847}}`), who serves as God's messenger and interpreter of divine judgment. Concepts such as "kingdom" (`{{H4438}}`), "idolatry," "sacrilege," "pride," "judgment," and "prophecy" are central to understanding Belshazzar's role in salvation history. His actions directly contrast with the reverence due to the God of Israel, embodying human arrogance and rebellion against divine authority.
### Theological Significance
Belshazzar's narrative serves as a profound theological statement on divine sovereignty, human accountability, and the consequences of pride and blasphemy. His sacrilegious use of the temple vessels, consecrated to Yahweh, was not merely an act of disrespect but a direct challenge to the God of Israel. This act of profanation, committed in a state of revelry and arrogance, brought about immediate divine judgment.
The "writing on the wall" (Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin) is a vivid demonstration of God's direct intervention in human affairs, specifically in the rise and fall of empires. It underscores the truth that "the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of mortals and gives them to whom he will" ([[Daniel 4:17]]). Belshazzar's failure to humble himself, despite knowing the fate of his predecessor Nebuchadnezzar, highlights the danger of spiritual blindness and unrepentant pride. His story is a powerful warning that no earthly power, however mighty, can defy the will of the Almighty without facing ultimate consequences. It affirms God's justice and His faithfulness in defending His holiness and His people, even amidst foreign domination.
### Summary
Belshazzar (H1113) is the Aramaic proper name of the last Chaldean king of Babylon, whose reign and dramatic downfall are recounted in the Book of Daniel. His story primarily appears in [[Daniel 5]], where his act of sacrilege—using vessels from the Jerusalem temple for a pagan feast—provokes direct divine judgment. The mysterious writing on the wall, interpreted by Daniel, seals his fate and signifies the immediate fall of Babylon to the Medes and Persians. Theologically, Belshazzar serves as a stark example of human pride, blasphemy, and the inevitable consequences of defying God's sovereignty. His narrative powerfully illustrates God's ultimate control over history, the rise and fall of kingdoms, and the unwavering truth that all earthly powers are accountable to the Most High.
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