A common misinterpretation of Daniel 5:20 is to apply it directly to Belshazzar rather than recognizing it as Daniel's reference to Nebuchadnezzar's historical humbling, leading some to overlook the passage's purpose in warning the current king through past precedent; others erroneously view it as a blanket endorsement of deposing any proud leader without considering God's mercy and restoration potential, as seen later in Nebuchadnezzar's repentance, or reduce it to mere moralism detached from God's overarching redemptive plan.
Daniel 5:20
King James Version (1769)
20 But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him:
Daniel 5:20 recounts God's judgment on Nebuchadnezzar, illustrating the core truth that pride leads to downfall as divine sovereignty humbles the arrogant; when his heart was lifted up and hardened in pride, he lost his throne and glory, emphasizing that God actively opposes haughtiness to enforce humility and acknowledge His supreme authority over human rulers and achievements.