Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context:The term "Tekel" is one of the Aramaic words found in the biblical account of the writing on the wall in the Book of Daniel. It is part of the mysterious inscription that appeared during King Belshazzar's feast, as recorded in Daniel 5. The word "Tekel" is interpreted by Daniel as a divine message of judgment against the Babylonian king. Scriptural Reference: · Daniel 5:25-28 : "Now this is the inscription that was written: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN. This is the interpretation of the message: MENE means that God has numbered the days of your reign and brought it to an end. TEKEL means that you have been weighed on the scales and found deficient. PERES means that your kingdom has been divided and given over to the Medes and Persians." Interpretation: In the context of Daniel 5, "Tekel" is interpreted by Daniel to mean that Belshazzar has been "weighed on the scales and found deficient." This indicates a divine evaluation of the king's moral and spiritual state, suggesting that he has failed to meet God's standards. The use of the term "Tekel" underscores the theme of divine judgment and accountability. Historical and Theological Significance: The appearance of the word "Tekel" in the narrative serves as a pivotal moment in the Book of Daniel, highlighting the sovereignty of God over earthly kingdoms. It emphasizes the belief that God holds rulers accountable for their actions and that divine justice will ultimately prevail. The message conveyed through "Tekel" is a reminder of the transient nature of human power and the enduring authority of God. Related Themes: · Divine Judgment: The concept of being "weighed" by God is a recurring theme in Scripture, reflecting the idea that God evaluates the hearts and actions of individuals and nations. · Accountability: The account of Belshazzar and the writing on the wall illustrates the principle that leaders are accountable to God for their governance and moral conduct. · Sovereignty of God: The narrative reinforces the belief in God's ultimate control over history and the fate of nations, as seen in the transfer of power from Babylon to the Medes and Persians. Cross-References: · Job 31:6 : "let God weigh me with honest scales, and He will know my integrity." · Proverbs 16:2 : "All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but his motives are weighed by the LORD." · 1 Samuel 2:3 : "Do not boast so proudly, or let arrogance come from your mouth, for the LORD is a God who knows, and by Him actions are weighed." The account of "Tekel" in the Book of Daniel serves as a powerful reminder of the divine oversight and the moral responsibilities of leaders, as well as the ultimate justice that God administers in the affairs of humanity. Nave's Topical Index Daniel 5:25,27And this is the writing that was written, MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN. Nave's Topical Index Library The Unseen Watcher Self-Examination The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources Why did Nebuchadnezzar change Daniel's name to Belteshazzar? | GotQuestions.orgWas Daniel made a eunuch in Babylon? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of “mene mene tekel upharsin”? What is the meaning of the handwriting on the wall? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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