In the biblical narrative, the term "heathen" often refers to those who are outside the covenant community of Israel, typically worshipping other gods and following practices contrary to the worship of Yahweh. One of the most striking instances of divine revelation given to a heathen ruler is found in the account of Belshazzar, the last king of Babylon, as recorded in the Book of Daniel.

Belshazzar's Feast and the Writing on the Wall

Belshazzar, identified as the son of Nabonidus and co-regent of Babylon, is best known for the dramatic event during a lavish feast he hosted. The account is detailed in Daniel 5, where Belshazzar, in a display of arrogance and sacrilege, used the gold and silver vessels taken from the Jerusalem temple to drink wine and praise the gods of gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone (Daniel 5:1-4).

In the midst of this revelry, a mysterious and divine revelation occurred. A disembodied hand appeared and wrote a message on the plaster of the wall of the king's palace. The king was visibly shaken, and his wise men were unable to interpret the writing (Daniel 5:5-8). This event underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and judgment over heathen nations and their rulers.

Daniel's Interpretation

The queen, likely the queen mother, advised Belshazzar to summon Daniel, known for his wisdom and ability to interpret dreams and signs. Daniel was brought before the king, and he reminded Belshazzar of the fate of his predecessor, Nebuchadnezzar, who was humbled by God for his pride (Daniel 5:18-21). Daniel rebuked Belshazzar for not humbling his heart despite knowing all this and for exalting himself against the Lord of heaven (Daniel 5:22-23).

Daniel then interpreted the writing: "MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN." He explained that "MENE" meant God had numbered the days of Belshazzar's reign and brought it to an end; "TEKEL" meant he had been weighed on the scales and found deficient; and "PARSIN" (or "PERES") meant his kingdom was divided and given to the Medes and Persians (Daniel 5:25-28).

The Fulfillment of the Revelation

That very night, the divine revelation was fulfilled. Belshazzar was slain, and Darius the Mede received the kingdom (Daniel 5:30-31). This swift fulfillment of the prophecy serves as a powerful testament to the sovereignty of God over all nations and rulers, regardless of their acknowledgment of Him.

Theological Implications

The account of Belshazzar's feast and the divine revelation he received highlights several key theological themes. First, it demonstrates God's authority and power to communicate His will and execute judgment, even among those who do not recognize Him. Second, it serves as a warning against pride and idolatry, illustrating the consequences of defying the true God. Lastly, it affirms the role of God's chosen servants, like Daniel, in conveying His messages and interpreting His will to the world.

In summary, the divine revelations given to Belshazzar illustrate the biblical principle that God is sovereign over all nations and rulers, and His purposes will be accomplished, often using unexpected means and messengers.Daniel 5:5,24-29
In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand, and wrote over against the candlestick on the plaster of the wall of the king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote.
Nave's Topical Index

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The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
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/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
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