Numbers 24:1-9 ▼

1 When Balaam noticed that the LORD was pleased that Balaam was blessing Israel, he didn't behave as he had time after time before, that is, to practice divination. Instead, he turned with his face to the wilderness,

2 looked up, and saw Israel encamped in their respective tribal order. Just then, the spirit of God came upon him.

3 Balaam uttered this prophetic statement: |A declaration by Beor's son Balaam, a declaration by the strong, blind man.

4 A declaration from one who hears what God has to say, who saw the vision that the Almighty revealed, who keeps stumbling with open eyes.

5 Jacob, your tents are so fine, as well as your dwelling places, O Israel!

6 They're spread out like valleys, like gardens along river banks, like aloe planted by the LORD, or like cedars beside water.

7 He will pour water from his buckets, and his descendants will stream forth like abundant water. His king will be more exalted than Agag when he exalts his own kingdom.

8 God is bringing them out of Egypt with the strength of an ox. He'll devour enemy nations, break their bones, and impale them with arrows.

9 He crouches, laying low like a lion. Who would awaken him? Those who bless you are blessed, and those who curse you are cursed.|