Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: The term "Tekel" is one of the mysterious words written on the wall during the feast of King Belshazzar of Babylon, as recorded in the Book of Daniel, chapter 5. The phrase "Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin" was interpreted by the prophet Daniel after the king's wise men failed to decipher its meaning. The word "Tekel" is of Aramaic origin and is part of a divine message that foretold the imminent downfall of Belshazzar's kingdom. Biblical Reference: In Daniel 5:25-28 , the passage reads: "This is the inscription that was written: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN. 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: The word "Tekel" specifically signifies that Belshazzar has been "weighed on the scales and found deficient." This metaphorical weighing indicates a divine judgment upon the king's character and reign. The imagery of scales suggests a standard of righteousness and justice that Belshazzar failed to meet. In the context of the narrative, it underscores the moral and spiritual bankruptcy of the Babylonian leadership at that time. Historical and Theological Significance: The event of the writing on the wall is a pivotal moment in the Book of Daniel, illustrating the sovereignty of God over earthly kingdoms. It serves as a reminder that human power and authority are subject to divine judgment. The fall of Babylon to the Medes and Persians, as prophesied by the interpretation of the writing, marks a significant shift in the ancient Near Eastern world and fulfills earlier prophetic declarations found in the Hebrew Scriptures. Application: The message of "Tekel" continues to resonate as a warning against pride, arrogance, and moral complacency. It calls individuals and nations to self-examination and accountability before God. The narrative encourages believers to live in a manner that aligns with divine standards, recognizing that all actions are ultimately weighed by God. Related Concepts: · Divine Judgment: The concept of God evaluating and judging human actions is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. The account of Belshazzar's feast serves as a dramatic illustration of this principle. · Prophetic Fulfillment: The fall of Babylon as interpreted by Daniel is an example of the fulfillment of prophecy, demonstrating the reliability and authority of God's word. · Moral Accountability: The idea that individuals and leaders are accountable to a higher moral standard is central to the biblical worldview, emphasizing the importance of integrity and righteousness. Concordance Tekeltekel (1 Occurrence)Daniel 5:25 Thesaurus Tekeltekel (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Tekeltekel (1 Occurrence). Daniel 5:25 And this is the writing which was recorded, Mene, tekel, peres. (See NAS). ... /t/tekeltekel.htm - 6k Tekel (2 Occurrences) Tekoa (12 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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