Background
In chapter 2, Daniel had informed Nebuchadnezzar that his kingdom was the first of four kingdoms to precede the coming of the Messiah. His was the kingdom of gold, to be followed by a lesser kingdom of silver.
The kingdom of silver emerges in chapter 5, when Darius captures Babylon and Belshazzar is put to death. The Medo-Persian Kingdom is born, fulfilling the first part of the prophecy revealed through Daniel. The events in chapter 5 happen about 20 years after the events described in chapter 4. Approximately 70 years had passed since Nebuchadnezzar initially besieged Jerusalem and brought the Israelites captive to Babylon. Daniel probably would have been in his mid-eighties.
We are introduced to Babylon’s last monarch, Belshazzar, described as a corrupt, self-absorbed, and abusive ruler. Daniel records for us what happened during the last night of their existence before it was overthrown by the Medo-Persian Empire.
Memory Verse
“…You praised the gods of silver, gold, bronze, iron, wood, and stone—gods that cannot see or hear or comprehend. But you have not glorified the God who has in His control your very breath and all your ways!” (Daniel 5:23b, NET)
Study Guide Available
For the corresponding study guide, please contact Melissa Renner at melissar@stonebriar.org.
