Daniel 5:22
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Daniel 5:22
22 And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this;
Chapter Context
Daniel 5 is a apocalyptic and narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, righteousness, love. Written during the Babylonian and Persian periods (c. 605-530 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Demonstrates faithful living under foreign rule during the Babylonian and Persian empires.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Daniel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Daniel 5:22
22 And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this;
Analysis
Daniel confronts Belshazzar: 'And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this.' The accusation isn't ignorance but willful pride despite knowledge. The phrase 'though thou knewest all this' refers to Nebuchadnezzar's humiliation (v. 18-21). Belshazzar had example and warning but chose pride anyway. The verb 'humbled' (Aramaic: shephel) means to abase or bring low. His refusal to humble his heart despite knowing God's judgment on his predecessor constitutes willful rebellion. This principle appears throughout Scripture: greater knowledge brings greater accountability (Luke 12:47-48).
Historical Context
As Nebuchadnezzar's successor, Belshazzar would have known the previous king's testimony (Daniel 4). Whether 'son' means direct descendant or successor, the relationship meant Belshazzar understood what happened to prideful rulers. Ancient Near Eastern courts preserved royal records and stories. Belshazzar's sacrilegious use of temple vessels (v. 2-4) while knowing God's power over Nebuchadnezzar demonstrates contemptuous defiance. His feast during siege shows either ignorance of danger or reckless fatalism—both stemming from failure to humble himself before God.
Reflection
- How does Belshazzar's example warn that knowing truth about God's judgment without responding in humility brings greater condemnation?
- What does the accusation 'though thou knewest' teach about the danger of familiarity with spiritual truth producing presumption rather than repentance?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 10:3, 2 Chronicles 33:23, 36:12, James 4:6, 4:17