Daniel 5:27 (KJV)

What does Daniel 5:27 mean?

Daniel 5:27 means that King Belshazzar has been judged by God, weighed on God’s scales, and found lacking in what was required of him. The verse is a direct message that Belshazzar does not measure up to God’s standard and will face consequences.

In this scene, Daniel is interpreting mysterious writing on the wall for King Belshazzar of Babylon during a royal feast. The word “TEKEL” is explained as a judgment: Belshazzar’s actions and character have been evaluated and found insufficient. This is part of a larger warning that his reign is about to end.

The Aramaic behind Daniel 5:27

• תְּקֵל (teqel): This word means “weighed.” In this context, it refers to the act of measuring or evaluating someone’s worth or deeds, much like weighing something on a scale to see if it meets a standard.
• מְאזָנִין (me’zanin): This is the word for “balances” or “scales.” The image is of a set of scales used to measure value or integrity, highlighting the idea of being held to a standard.
• הִשְׁתְּכַחַת (hisht’kachat): This word means “found.” It emphasizes that the evaluation is complete—Belshazzar has been examined.
• חַסִּיר (chasir): This means “wanting” or “lacking.” It shows that Belshazzar falls short; he does not have what is needed in God’s eyes.

Why Daniel 5:27 matters

• Daniel 5:27 clarifies that God’s judgment is based on a careful evaluation, not on impulse or favoritism; Belshazzar’s reign is ending because he truly does not measure up.
• The verse connects to the larger story, where the mysterious writing is revealed to be a direct verdict from God, not just a random omen or riddle.
• Understanding the specific words used helps readers see the seriousness of the judgment—Belshazzar is not just criticized, but officially weighed and found lacking, which leads directly to the fall of Babylon that night.