Topical Encyclopedia Upharsin is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Daniel, and is part of the mysterious writing on the wall during the feast of King Belshazzar of Babylon. The term is integral to the narrative that describes the fall of Babylon and the divine judgment pronounced upon the king and his kingdom.Biblical Context The account of Upharsin is located in Daniel 5. During a lavish banquet hosted by King Belshazzar, a hand appears and writes a message on the wall, which none of the king's wise men can interpret. The king, greatly troubled, calls for Daniel, a Jewish exile known for his wisdom and ability to interpret dreams and visions. Daniel is brought before the king to interpret the writing. The inscription on the wall reads: "MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN" (Daniel 5:25). Daniel provides the interpretation of each term: · MENE: "God has numbered the days of your reign and brought it to an end" (Daniel 5:26). · TEKEL: "You have been weighed on the scales and found deficient" (Daniel 5:27). · PERES: "Your kingdom has been divided and given to the Medes and Persians" (Daniel 5:28). The term "Upharsin" is the plural form of "Peres," which means "divided." It signifies the division and subsequent end of Belshazzar's kingdom, as it would be conquered by the Medes and Persians. The use of the plural form may emphasize the completeness and certainty of the division and judgment. Theological Significance Upharsin, as part of the divine message, underscores the sovereignty of God over the kingdoms of men. It serves as a reminder that earthly powers are subject to divine authority and judgment. The fall of Babylon, as foretold by the writing on the wall, illustrates the biblical theme that pride and impiety lead to downfall. Belshazzar's use of the sacred vessels from the Jerusalem temple during his feast is seen as an act of sacrilege, further justifying the divine judgment. The narrative of Upharsin also highlights the role of Daniel as a faithful servant of God, who stands as a witness to God's power and justice. His ability to interpret the writing demonstrates the wisdom granted to him by God, contrasting with the impotence of the Babylonian wise men. Historical Context The historical context of the term Upharsin is rooted in the fall of Babylon in 539 B.C. to the Medo-Persian Empire under Cyrus the Great. This event marked a significant shift in the ancient Near Eastern world and fulfilled the prophecy of Babylon's downfall as recorded in the writings of the prophets, including Isaiah and Jeremiah. Linguistic Notes The Aramaic term "Upharsin" is derived from the root "prs," meaning "to divide." The use of Aramaic in this passage is notable, as it reflects the language commonly used in the Babylonian court and administration during the time of Daniel. In summary, Upharsin is a key term in the biblical narrative of Daniel 5, symbolizing the divine judgment and division of Belshazzar's kingdom. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's ultimate authority over human affairs and the inevitable consequences of pride and impiety. Nave's Topical Index Daniel 5:25,28And this is the writing that was written, MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN. Nave's Topical Index Library Mene, Tekel, Peres Weighed in the Balances The Unseen Watcher 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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