Who was Belteshazzar?

Belteshazzar was the Babylonian name given to Daniel, the Jewish prophet and statesman, during his exile in Babylon. The name change occurred under the rule of King Nebuchadnezzar as part of an effort to assimilate young Hebrew captives into Babylonian culture and religion. The name Belteshazzar (בֵּלְטְשַׁאצַּר, Belṭᵉshaʾṣar) likely means “Bel protect his life” or “Lady protect the king,” referencing the Babylonian god Bel (a title of Marduk). The name reflects the polytheistic and idolatrous influences of Babylon, in contrast to Daniel’s Hebrew name, which means “God is my Judge.”

Daniel’s Babylonian name appears numerous times in the book of Daniel, especially in the early chapters, as he serves in the royal court of Babylon. While the Babylonians attempted to redefine Daniel’s identity, the narrative repeatedly affirms Daniel’s unwavering loyalty to the God of Israel.

Biblical References

• Daniel 1:7 – Daniel is renamed Belteshazzar.

• Daniel 2:26 – Nebuchadnezzar addresses Daniel as Belteshazzar.

• Daniel 4:8-9, 18-19 – The name Belteshazzar is used during the king’s testimony of his dream and Daniel’s interpretation.

• Daniel 5:12 – Daniel is again called Belteshazzar when summoned to interpret the writing on the wall.

• Cross References: Daniel 1:3-20; Daniel 6:1-28; Daniel 9:1-27.

Daniel’s Faith in Exile

The renaming of Daniel as Belteshazzar was part of Babylon’s strategy to indoctrinate the Judean captives. Along with this, Daniel and his companions were enrolled in royal training, taught Babylonian literature and language, and offered food from the king’s table (Daniel 1:3–5). Despite these efforts, Daniel resolved not to defile himself (Daniel 1:8). The narrative shows that even though he bore a name honoring a pagan god, Daniel remained faithful to the Lord in both conviction and conduct.

Throughout the book of Daniel, even when addressed by his Babylonian name, Daniel is identified with the God of Israel. In Daniel 4:8–9, Nebuchadnezzar refers to “Belteshazzar” as one “in whom is the spirit of the holy gods,” acknowledging a divine quality distinct from Babylonian magic.

Daniel’s life is a model of integrity, courage, and faithfulness in a hostile environment. He refused to compromise his convictions, consistently trusted God in life-threatening situations (such as the lion’s den and interpreting dreams), and lived a life of prayer and dependence on God.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Belteshazzar reminds believers that earthly powers may attempt to redefine identity, impose ideologies, and lure with comfort or fear. Yet, like Daniel, Christians are called to remain faithful to their true identity in Christ. Names, titles, and roles may change, but God‘s people are defined by their relationship with Him.

Daniel’s story encourages Christians to be faithful in the workplace, in government, or in any cultural setting that may not share biblical values. It is possible to serve with excellence and integrity in secular environments while honoring God above all.

Moreover, Daniel’s refusal to adopt pagan practices under the name Belteshazzar teaches Christians to resist conforming to the world (Romans 12:2) and instead live as “aliens and strangers” whose citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20).

How Belteshazzar’s Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Daniel’s life, under the name Belteshazzar, foreshadows the life and ministry of Jesus Christ in several key ways:

1. Exile and Incarnation: Just as Daniel lived as a righteous man in exile among pagans, Jesus entered a world marred by sin. He came as light into darkness (John 1:9–10).

2. Wisdom and Revelation: Daniel was known for interpreting dreams and revealing hidden things. Jesus is the ultimate revealer of God’s will and the embodiment of divine wisdom (Colossians 2:3).

3. Faithful Witness: Daniel was a faithful witness before kings and nations. Jesus bore witness to the truth before Pilate and the religious leaders, even unto death (John 18:37).

4. Deliverance: Just as Daniel was delivered from death (e.g., the lion’s den), Jesus was delivered from death through resurrection, securing eternal salvation for all who trust in Him (Hebrews 7:25).

Broader Biblical Themes

Identity and Integrity

Daniel’s experience as Belteshazzar touches on the broader biblical theme of identity. Throughout Scripture, God’s people often find themselves living in foreign lands (Abraham, Joseph, Esther, the early church). Yet their true identity is rooted in God, not in worldly names or positions.

God’s Sovereignty

The book of Daniel emphasizes God’s control over nations and history. Even though Daniel bore the name of a pagan god, the narrative consistently shows that the Most High rules over all (Daniel 4:17).

Faithfulness in Exile

Daniel exemplifies how to live faithfully in exile, a theme echoed in 1 Peter 1:1 and throughout the New Testament. Believers today live as exiles in a world that is not their home.

God Honors Those Who Honor Him

Daniel’s unwavering commitment to God, even when addressed by a name honoring a false god, results in divine favor and elevation. This reflects God’s promise in 1 Samuel 2:30: “Those who honor me I will honor.”

Reflection Questions

1. How does Daniel’s life under the name Belteshazzar challenge you to stand firm in your faith when surrounded by opposing values?

2. In what ways are you tempted to let the world define your identity, and how can you reclaim your God-given identity?

3. What practices from Daniel’s life (such as prayer, integrity, and courage) can you apply in your current situation?

4. How does Daniel’s story increase your confidence in God’s sovereignty over world events and personal trials?

5. What does Daniel’s witness in Babylon teach you about being a light in your workplace, school, or community?

Belteshazzar is a name meant to erase Daniel’s heritage and faith—but it only serves to highlight his unshakable identity in God. His story reminds all believers that God’s people can thrive spiritually even when exiled, pressured, or renamed—because their identity is ultimately found not in what the world calls them, but in who God declares them to be.