What did the writing on the wall "Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin" mean?

In Daniel 5, the mysterious phrase “Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin” appears during a dazzling feast hosted by King Belshazzar of Babylon. The king is deep into drinking from sacred vessels taken from the Jerusalem temple when a disembodied hand delivers this divine message. Unnerving, right? It’s a dramatic moment showcasing the clash between human arrogance and divine authority.

The phrases decoded by Daniel have a profound meaning, each reflecting the judgment against Belshazzar’s reckless disregard for God's commandments. “Mene” signifies a counting, indicating that God has taken measure of his kingdom. “Tekel” translates to being weighed, suggesting Belshazzar has fallen short. “Upharsin” (or “Peres” when split) indicates his kingdom is divided and will be given to the Medes and Persians. Thus, distilled into finality, God is levelling the scales on a proud king.

This story also echoes the themes of divine sovereignty and the transitory nature of earthly power. Curious fact: Babylon's fall occurred just a night later, traditionally linked to an unexpected, rapid conquest, demonstrating how quickly fortunes can change.

The tale emphasizes the connection between morality and rulership; a kingdom founded on pride and blasphemy stands on shaky grounds. Belshazzar's actions contrast starkly with those of real leaders seen later in the Old Testament, showcasing that wisdom and reverence for the divine intertwined with leadership can maintain stability and peace within a community.