Commentary on Daniel 5:20

Daniel 5:20 states, "But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him."

Contextual Background

This verse is situated within the larger narrative of Belshazzar's feast, a critical moment that illustrates the hubris of Babylon and serves as a turning point that leads to the fall of the empire. Belshazzar, the king, in his arrogance, disregards the lessons taught by his predecessor, Nebuchadnezzar. This commentary draws upon multiple public domain sources to explore the theological and moral implications of this passage.

Pride and Its Consequences

Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes that pride is the root of many evils. He suggests that Belshazzar's pride typifies the downfall of many who refuse to recognize their subordinate place before God. Henry notes:

• "Pride is a killer of integrity and wisdom; when a person's heart is exalted, they often forget the source of their power and authority."
• "Belshazzar believed himself untouchable, yet his arrogance leads to his undoing, which serves as a divine warning against the intoxicating nature of pride."

The Hardening of the Heart

Albert Barnes’ Notes comment on the hardening of Belshazzar's heart, noting that this supernatural phenomenon often reflects a willful rebellion against divine authority. Barnes interprets the hardening not just as a personal flaw but as an act of defiance against the God of Heaven:

• "The heart that hardens in pride becomes blind to its own fallibility, leading to a lack of wisdom and awareness of reality."
• "His refusal to heed the warnings of God signifies a profound spiritual blindness that culminates in judgment."

The Deposition and Loss of Glory

Adam Clarke's Commentary dives deeper into the implications of being deposed from his throne. Clarke argues that the king's loss of glory is not merely a political event but a profound theological statement about the sovereignty of God:

• "The glory taken from Belshazzar signifies not only a physical loss of power but also a spiritual impoverishment, as he is stripped of any divine favor that sustains authority."
• "Spiritual truths embedded in the loss of position serve to remind leaders of the fleeting nature of honor and power compared to God's eternal nature."

Lessons for Contemporary Readers

This verse and its commentary invite modern readers, including pastors and theologians, to reflect on their own attitudes towards power and authority. Key lessons include:

• Acknowledge Divine Sovereignty: Each person in a position of authority must recognize that power is granted by God and can be taken away at any moment.
• The Dangers of Pride: Like Belshazzar, many may be led astray by pride, forgetting the fragility of their circumstances.
• Heed Warnings: Belshazzar's downfall is a call to action—that God's warnings should never be ignored, and humility must prevail over arrogance.

Theological Reflections

This passage offers profound implications about the nature of human pride and divine judgment. It provides a mirror through which leaders can examine their own hearts and practices:

• "Just as Nebuchadnezzar was humbled before being restored, so too must all leaders be willing to acknowledge their limits and dependence on God."
• "The fall of Belshazzar serves as an eternal truth that righteousness exalts a nation, while sin is a reproach to any people (Proverbs 14:34)."

Conclusion

Daniel 5:20 encapsulates a powerful warning against the perils of pride and the critical importance of humility. By drawing from the insights of esteemed commentators like Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, readers are encouraged to take heed of their circumstances and relationships with God seriously. As they reflect on the narrative of Belshazzar, may they be inspired to cultivate hearts attuned to God's sovereignty, ever mindful of the fleeting nature of human glory.