The term "Third Highest Ruler" is primarily associated with the biblical account found in the Book of Daniel, specifically in Daniel 5. This title is significant within the context of the narrative involving King Belshazzar of Babylon and the mysterious writing on the wall.

Biblical Context

In Daniel 5, King Belshazzar, the son of Nabonidus and co-regent of Babylon, holds a great feast for a thousand of his nobles. During this feast, he orders the gold and silver vessels taken from the temple in Jerusalem to be brought so that he and his guests might drink from them, thus profaning sacred items dedicated to the God of Israel. As they drink and praise the gods of gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone, a mysterious hand appears and writes a message on the wall of the king's palace.

Terrified, Belshazzar calls for the enchanters, astrologers, and diviners to interpret the writing, promising that whoever can read and explain it will be clothed in purple, have a gold chain placed around their neck, and be made the third highest ruler in the kingdom (Daniel 5:7). The promise of being the "third highest ruler" is significant because Belshazzar himself was the second ruler, serving under his father Nabonidus, the first ruler.

Daniel's Interpretation

None of the king's wise men can interpret the writing, so the queen suggests calling Daniel, known for his wisdom and ability to interpret dreams and visions. Daniel is brought before the king, and after refusing the king's gifts, he proceeds to interpret the writing. The inscription reads "MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN," and Daniel explains that it signifies God's judgment on Belshazzar's reign: "MENE" means God has numbered the days of the kingdom and brought it to an end; "TEKEL" means the king has been weighed and found wanting; "PARSIN" (or "PERES") means the kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians (Daniel 5:25-28).

Despite the ominous interpretation, Belshazzar fulfills his promise to Daniel, clothing him in purple, placing a gold chain around his neck, and proclaiming him the third highest ruler in the kingdom (Daniel 5:29). However, that very night, Belshazzar is slain, and Darius the Mede takes over the kingdom, fulfilling the prophecy.

Theological Significance

The account of the third highest ruler underscores several theological themes. It highlights the sovereignty of God over earthly kingdoms and rulers, demonstrating that God holds the ultimate authority to raise and depose kings. The narrative also serves as a warning against pride and sacrilege, as Belshazzar's arrogance and disrespect for the sacred vessels lead to his downfall. Furthermore, Daniel's role as the interpreter of divine messages emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and integrity in serving God, even in a foreign and hostile environment.

The account of the third highest ruler in Daniel 5 is a powerful reminder of the transient nature of human power and the enduring sovereignty of God, who judges the hearts and actions of all people.