What is the meaning of Daniel 5:24?

Therefore

- “Therefore” ties the handwriting on the wall directly to Belshazzar’s arrogance (Daniel 5:22-23). God’s judgments always flow from righteous cause (Genesis 6:5-7; Proverbs 1:24-26; Romans 1:24).

- He had warned through Nebuchadnezzar’s humbling; Belshazzar ignored the lesson, so consequence follows.

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He sent

- “He” is the Most High God (Daniel 5:18). The Lord Himself initiates this intervention (Isaiah 37:35-36).

- Scripture often notes God’s sending action—whether sending His word (Psalm 107:20) or His Son (John 3:17)—showing His active rule.

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the hand

- A disembodied hand—the same “finger of God” that etched the Law (Exodus 31:18; Deuteronomy 9:10; Luke 11:20)—now appears in Babylon’s palace.

- The hand illustrates God’s nearness and power; “the hand of the Lord” also judges (Acts 13:11) and delivers (Isaiah 59:1).

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that wrote

- God communicates in writing so the message is permanent and undeniable (Habakkuk 2:2; Revelation 20:12).

- Written words fix responsibility: Belshazzar cannot claim ignorance, echoing Job’s longing for words “engraved in rock” (Job 19:23-24).

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the inscription

- Verse 25 reveals it: “MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN.” Each term weighs and divides the kingdom, fulfilled that very night (Daniel 5:30).

- Prophets had foretold Babylon’s fall to the Medes (Isaiah 13:17-19; Jeremiah 51:29-31). God’s word stands literal and sure.

• Every ruler and nation is measured by God’s standard.

• Once His verdict is written, the outcome is certain.

• Reverence for what is holy guards us from similar judgment.

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summary

Belshazzar’s contempt for the holy brought an immediate, personal response from God. The Lord sent His own hand to inscribe a non-negotiable verdict, proving that His written word is final, His justice exact, and His sovereignty unchallenged.