Belshazzar's feast

Belshazzar's Feast refers to a story from the Book of Daniel in the Hebrew Bible, which recounts an event in the life of Belshazzar, the regent of Babylon who was ruling in the absence of his father, King Nabonidus. The feast and the mysterious writing that appeared on the wall during the event have been subjects of various interpretations and have inspired numerous works of art and literature over the centuries.

Background

Belshazzar, according to biblical narrative, hosted a grand feast for his thousand nobles, during which they drank wine from the vessels that had been looted from the Temple in Jerusalem. This act of desecration was said to have provoked a divine judgment.

The Writing on the Wall

As the feast progressed, a disembodied hand appeared and wrote a message on the palace wall. The text, written in Aramaic, consisted of the words "MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN." Belshazzar was terrified and called for his wise men and enchanters to interpret the writing, but none could.

Daniel, a Jewish captive who had gained favor with the king for his wisdom, was brought in to interpret the message. Daniel explained that the words meant that God had numbered the days of Belshazzar's reign, found it wanting, and that his kingdom would be divided between the Medes and Persians.

Historical Context

The historical accuracy of the story has been debated among scholars. While Belshazzar is mentioned in other historical sources, his position and the circumstances of the fall of Babylon differ from the biblical account. Nonetheless, the story of Belshazzar's Feast remains an important cultural and religious narrative.

Cultural Impact

Belshazzar's Feast has inspired numerous artistic and literary works, including paintings by Rembrandt and John Martin, and music such as William Walton's oratorio "Belshazzar's Feast." The phrase "the writing on the wall" has entered common language, used to indicate an impending doom or the end of an endeavor.

Gallery

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  Belshazzar's Feast by Rembrandt

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  Belshazzar's Feast by John Martin

See Also

• Book of Daniel
• Babylon
• Nabonidus
• Medes
• Persians

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