Daniel 5:5

At that moment the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. As the king watched the hand that was writing,

Study Bible

At that moment
This phrase signifies the immediacy and suddenness of the divine intervention. In the context of the narrative, it underscores the abruptness with which God can act, often when least expected. The Hebrew word for "moment" can imply a specific, divinely appointed time, reminding us that God's timing is perfect and sovereign over all human affairs.

the fingers of a human hand appeared
The appearance of the fingers is a supernatural event, emphasizing the direct intervention of God in human history. The imagery of a "human hand" is significant, as it conveys the personal nature of God's message. In the Hebrew context, the hand often symbolizes power and action. This manifestation serves as a tangible reminder of God's authority and His ability to communicate directly with humanity.

and began writing
The act of writing is crucial, as it represents the communication of a divine message. In ancient times, writing was a means of recording important decrees and laws. Here, it signifies the gravity and permanence of God's judgment. The Hebrew root for "writing" is often associated with inscribing or engraving, suggesting that God's words are enduring and unchangeable.

on the plaster of the wall
The mention of "plaster" indicates the setting within the opulent Babylonian palace, where walls were often coated with a white plaster to enhance their grandeur. This detail highlights the contrast between the transient splendor of human kingdoms and the eternal nature of God's word. Archaeological findings have confirmed the use of plaster in Babylonian architecture, lending historical credibility to the account.

near the lampstand
The placement "near the lampstand" is symbolic, as lampstands in biblical literature often represent illumination and revelation. The proximity to the lampstand suggests that the message was meant to be seen clearly, shedding light on the king's impending judgment. In the temple, lampstands were used to signify God's presence, further emphasizing the divine origin of the message.

in the royal palace
The setting of the "royal palace" underscores the reach of God's sovereignty, extending even into the heart of earthly power. The palace, a symbol of human authority and pride, becomes the backdrop for God's intervention. This serves as a reminder that no place is beyond God's reach and that His authority surpasses all human rule.

As the king watched
The king's observation of the event highlights his helplessness and vulnerability in the face of divine power. The Hebrew verb for "watched" implies a sense of awe and fear, as the king is confronted with a reality beyond his control. This moment serves as a humbling reminder of the limitations of human power when confronted with the divine.

the hand that was writing
The focus on "the hand" reiterates the personal nature of God's communication. It is not an abstract force but a deliberate act by a personal God. The continuous action of "writing" suggests that God's message is ongoing and active, calling for a response. This serves as an invitation for reflection on how we respond to God's revelations in our own lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Belshazzar
The king of Babylon who held a great feast and used the sacred vessels from the Jerusalem temple, showing disrespect for God.

2. The Hand
A divine manifestation that wrote on the wall, symbolizing God's direct intervention and judgment.

3. The Wall
The location in the royal palace where the writing appeared, emphasizing the public and undeniable nature of God's message.

4. The Lampstand
Positioned near the writing, it highlights the visibility and clarity of God's message to all present.

5. The Royal Palace
The setting of the event, representing the center of Babylonian power and authority, which is being challenged by God's sovereignty.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
The event underscores God's ultimate authority over earthly kingdoms and rulers. No power is beyond His reach.

Divine Judgment
The writing on the wall serves as a reminder that God holds individuals and nations accountable for their actions.

Reverence for the Sacred
Belshazzar's misuse of the temple vessels highlights the importance of respecting what is holy and dedicated to God.

Visibility of God's Message
The placement of the writing near the lampstand signifies that God's messages are meant to be seen and understood.

Urgency of Repentance
Belshazzar's immediate judgment calls believers to live in a state of readiness and repentance, acknowledging that life is fleeting.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the appearance of the hand writing on the wall demonstrate God's sovereignty over human affairs?

2. In what ways does the misuse of the temple vessels by Belshazzar serve as a warning against disrespecting what is sacred?

3. How can we apply the lesson of divine judgment in Daniel 5:5 to our personal lives and decision-making?

4. What are some modern-day "walls" where God might be writing messages for us to see and heed?

5. How do the events of Daniel 5:5 encourage us to live with a sense of urgency and readiness for God's intervention in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:18
The writing by the finger of God on the tablets of stone connects to the divine writing on the wall, both signifying God's authority and law.

Psalm 75:7
This verse speaks of God as the judge who brings down one and exalts another, paralleling the judgment pronounced on Belshazzar.

Luke 12:20
The parable of the rich fool, where God demands the man's life, mirrors the sudden judgment on Belshazzar.

Revelation 20:12
The books being opened in judgment relate to the writing on the wall as a record of divine judgment.

Isaiah 47:10-11
The prophecy against Babylon's pride and impending downfall connects to the events of Daniel 5.