Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash – Belshazzar

Please scroll down for the music video. It is at the end of the article! 👇👇

About The Song

Johnny Cash is renowned for his ability to craft powerful narratives through his music, often drawing inspiration from biblical stories. One such song that showcases his storytelling prowess is “Belshazzar”. This haunting ballad, found on his album Man in Black, retells the biblical tale of the Babylonian king, Belshazzar, who met his doom after defying God.

Cash’s deep, resonant voice lends a sense of gravitas to the story, emphasizing the consequences of pride and arrogance. The lyrics vividly describe the lavish feast held by Belshazzar, during which a mysterious hand appears and writes on the wall. Unable to decipher the writing, Belshazzar calls upon Daniel, the prophet, who interprets the message as a divine warning of the king’s impending doom.

“Belshazzar” is a prime example of Cash’s ability to evoke a sense of drama and suspense. Through his powerful storytelling, he invites us to consider the consequences of our actions and the importance of humility. The song’s simple yet evocative melody, combined with Cash’s heartfelt performance, creates a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the final note.

Beyond its biblical themes, “Belshazzar” also offers a commentary on the cyclical nature of history and the inevitable downfall of those who abuse their power. The song’s references to the Babylonian Empire and its ultimate demise serve as a cautionary tale for all time.

“Belshazzar” is more than just a song; it’s a powerful meditation on the themes of pride, humility, and divine judgment. Cash’s ability to transform a biblical story into a timeless piece of music is a testament to his skill as a songwriter and performer.

“Belshazzar” is a haunting and evocative ballad that showcases Johnny Cash’s ability to tell a compelling story. It is a song that will stay with you long after you’ve finished listening.

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqdbJrkW5OA

Lyric

Well the Bible tells us about a manWho ruled Babylon and all it’s land‘Round the city he built a wallAnd declared that Babylon would never fall
He had concubines and wivesHe called his Babylon “Paradise”‘Pon his throne he drank and ateBut for Belshazzer it was gettin’ late
For he was weighed in the balance and found wantingHis kingdom was divided, it couldn’t standHe was weighed in the balance and found wantingHis houses were built upon the sand
Well the people feast and drank their wineAnd praised the false gods of his timeAll holy things were scorned and mockedBut suddenly all their mocking stopped
For on the wall there appeared a handNothing else, there was no manAnd in blood the hand began to writeAnd Belshazzar couldn’t hide his fright
For he was weighed in the balance and found wantingHis kingdom was divided, it couldn’t standHe was weighed in the balance and found wantingHis houses were built upon the sand
Well no one around could understandWhat was written by the mystic handBelshazzar tried but couldn’t findA man who could give him peace of mind
But Daniel the prophet, a man of GodHe saw the writing on the wall in bloodBelshazzar asked him what it saidAnd Daniel turned to the wall and read
“My friend you’re weighed in the balance and found wantingYour kingdom is divided, it can’t standYou’re weighed in the balance and found wantingYour houses are built upon the sand”
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