The answer is: Belshazzar

Daniel 5:2-3

What a scene unfurls in Daniel 5! Belshazzar, the last king of Babylon, decides to throw a lavish feast and, in a grand act of hubris, opts to use the sacred gold and silver vessels taken from the Jerusalem temple. Imagine the audacity! These weren't just any old goblets — they were instruments once rich with religious significance now used for revelry.

In the biblical narrative, Belshazzar’s decision reflects a broader theme throughout scripture: the deep respect that sacred objects and places commanded. His disregard highlights a rule of thumb in ancient literature; mocking sacred entities usually leads to dire consequences! This profound lesson culminates chaoticly, with God's hand appearing to write on the wall, proclaiming the fall of Belshazzar’s reign ("Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin").

Interesting trivia: Belshazzar isn't mentioned as king in the broader historical record but rather as a co-regent, with Nebonidus serving as king. This little twist offers a peek into the complexities of Babylonian rule and reinforces an important biblical takeaway - history can often be wrapped in layers of power dynamics.

What about those vessels? They weren't just shiny relics; they penned a narrative of faith, resilience, and the covenant between the Hebrew people and their God. Many scholars view their desecration and the subsequent divine intervention as pivotal in the arc of Israel’s story, underscoring the mighty belief that acts of sacrilege are not invisible to a loving and just power in the universe. So next time you read Daniel, marvel not just at the drama but at the rich tapestry of history, ethics, and divine influence running through!