The prophet first reminded Belshazzar of Nebuchadnezzar’s sin and fall, of the divine judgment for his pride, and his subsequent acknowledgment of the power and mercy of the God of Israel. Then in bold, emphatic words he rebuked Belshazzar for his great wickedness and pointed out the lessons he might have learned but did not. Belshazzar had not heeded the warning of events so significant to himself. He was about to reap the consequence of his rebellion. RR 187.7
“You ..., Belshazzar, ... have lifted yourself up against the Lord of heaven. They have brought the vessels of His house before you, and you and your lords, your wives and your concubines, have drunk wine from them. And you have praised the gods of silver and gold, bronze and iron, wood and stone ...; and the God who holds your breath in his hand and owns all your ways, you have not glorified. Then the fingers of the hand were sent from Him, and this writing was written.” RR 188.1