Old Testament
Daniel 5:30
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, we see the dramatic end of Belshazzar, the king of Babylon.
- Author
- Daniel the prophet
- Written
- Around 530 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Exiled Jews and future generations
That very night, Belshazzar, king of the Chaldeans, was killed.
In that night was Belshazzar the king of the Chaldeans slain.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, we see the dramatic end of Belshazzar, the king of Babylon. His reign was marked by arrogance and disregard for the warnings given to him. During a lavish feast, he used sacred items from the Jewish temple, showing his contempt for God. That very night, the writing on the wall foretold his doom, and the prophecy came true. Belshazzar's life ended abruptly, illustrating the consequences of pride and disobedience. This event serves as a powerful reminder that no one is above accountability. The suddenness of his death emphasizes the importance of being aware of our actions and their potential repercussions. Ultimately, it highlights the reality that our choices can lead to significant outcomes, both in this life and beyond. Belshazzar's story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of ignoring wisdom and living without respect for higher principles. It challenges us to reflect on our own lives and the legacies we are building, urging us to choose wisely.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Daniel 5:30 to your life
Reflect on your own life and consider the choices you make daily. Are you living with respect for the values that matter? This story encourages us to be mindful of our actions and their impact on ourselves and others. Choose wisely and live with purpose, avoiding the pitfalls of arrogance and neglecting wisdom. Your legacy matters, so make it count for good.
Curated for this public verse page. Daniel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Daniel 5:30 mean?
Daniel 5:30 describes the sudden death of Belshazzar, the king of Babylon, on the night of a feast where he disrespected sacred items. This verse highlights the consequences of his arrogance and disregard for divine warnings.
What is the significance of Belshazzar's death in Daniel 5:30?
Belshazzar's death signifies the abrupt end of his reign and serves as a warning about the dangers of pride and disobedience. It illustrates that actions have consequences, especially when one ignores wisdom and higher principles.
How does Daniel 5:30 relate to the theme of accountability?
Daniel 5:30 illustrates accountability by showing that Belshazzar faced immediate consequences for his actions, particularly his arrogance and disrespect for God. It serves as a reminder that everyone is responsible for their choices.
What lessons can we learn from Daniel 5:30?
From Daniel 5:30, we learn the importance of being mindful of our actions and the potential repercussions they carry. It encourages us to live with respect for values and to consider the legacy we are building through our choices.

The Book of Daniel
Daniel 1: Daniel and His Friends in Babylon
In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon comes unto Jerusalem and besieges it. The Lord gives Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God, which he carries into the land of Shinar to the house of his god. The king speaks unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes; children in whom is no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as have ability in them to stand in the king's palace, whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. The king appoints them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank, so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king. Among these are of the children of Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The prince of the eunuchs gives them names: unto Daniel he gives the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.
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