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Book of Daniel - Chapter 5 - Verse 1

5:1
Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand.

Meaning

The verse "Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand." from the Book of Daniel in the Bible, provides insight into the character of King Belshazzar and his lavish lifestyle. The feast mentioned in this verse was likely a grand event, with a thousand nobles in attendance, showcasing the opulence and extravagance of the Babylonian court. By specifically mentioning that the king drank wine in front of his guests, the verse emphasizes the king's indulgent behavior and disregard for the consequences of his actions.

This verse sets the stage for the events that follow in the Book of Daniel, including the famous story of the writing on the wall which ultimately leads to the downfall of King Belshazzar. It highlights the theme of arrogance and pride, as Belshazzar's actions during the feast reveal his arrogance and lack of respect for higher powers. The verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of excess and the importance of humility, as seen through the eventual consequences faced by King Belshazzar.

Theological Overview

The verse from the book of Daniel details a scene where Belshazzar, the king of Babylon, hosted a grand feast for a thousand of his lords. The mention of the king's lavish feast and his indulgence in wine before his guests not only serves as historical context but also holds theological significance. This event ultimately leads to the dramatic downfall of Belshazzar, as prophesied by Daniel later in the chapter. The excessive revelry and disregard for spiritual matters symbolize the king's arrogance and lack of reverence for God. Through this verse, readers are reminded of the consequences of pride and the importance of humble obedience to God. Word studies on terms like "feast" and "lords" further enrich our understanding of the text, shedding light on the cultural practices and societal norms of the time. By delving into the theological interpretation and word studies of this verse, readers can glean valuable insights into the themes of humility, faith, and divine judgment present in the passage.

American Standard Version

Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand.
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