◄ Numbers 22 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Balak Summons Balaam 1Then the Israelites traveled on and camped in the plains of Moab near the Jordan, across from Jericho. 2Now Balak son of Zippor saw all that Israel had done to the Amorites, 3and Moab was terrified of the people because they were numerous. Indeed, Moab dreaded the Israelites. 4So the Moabites said to the elders of Midian, “This horde will devour everything around us, as an ox licks up the grass of the field.” Since Balak son of Zippor was king of Moab at that time, 5he sent messengers to summon Balaam son of Beor at Pethor, which is by the Euphratesa in the land of his people. “Behold, a people has come out of Egypt,” said Balak. “They cover the face of the land and have settled next to me. 6So please come now and put a curse on this people, because they are too mighty for me. Perhaps I may be able to defeat them and drive them out of the land; for I know that those you bless are blessed, and those you curse are cursed.” 7The elders of Moab and Midian departed with the fees for divination in hand. They came to Balaam and relayed to him the words of Balak. 8“Spend the night here,” Balaam replied, “and I will give you the answer that the LORD speaks to me.” So the princes of Moab stayed with Balaam. 9Then God came to Balaam and asked, “Who are these men with you?” 10And Balaam said to God, “Balak son of Zippor, king of Moab, sent me this message: 11‘Behold, a people has come out of Egypt, and they cover the face of the land. Now come and put a curse on them for me. Perhaps I may be able to fight against them and drive them away.’” 12But God said to Balaam, “Do not go with them. You are not to curse this people, for they are blessed.” 13So Balaam got up the next morning and said to Balak’s princes, “Go back to your homeland, because the LORD has refused to let me go with you.” 14And the princes of Moab arose, returned to Balak, and said, “Balaam refused to come with us.” 15Then Balak sent other princes, more numerous and more distinguished than the first messengers. 16They came to Balaam and said, “This is what Balak son of Zippor says: ‘Please let nothing hinder you from coming to me, 17for I will honor you richly and do whatever you say. So please come and put a curse on this people for me!’” 18But Balaam replied to the servants of Balak, “If Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not do anything small or great to go beyond the command of the LORD my God. 19So now, please stay here overnight as the others did, that I may find out what else the LORD has to tell me.” 20That night God came to Balaam and said, “Since these men have come to summon you, get up and go with them, but you must only do what I tell you.” 21So in the morning Balaam got up, saddled his donkey, and went with the princes of Moab. The Angel and Balaam’s Donkey 22Then God’s anger was kindled because Balaam was going along, and the angelb of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. Balaam was riding his donkey, and his two servants were with him. 23When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with a drawn sword in his hand, she turned off the path and went into a field. So Balaam beat her to return her to the path. 24Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow passage between two vineyards, with walls on either side. 25And the donkey saw the angel of the LORD and pressed herself against the wall, crushing Balaam’s foot against it. So he beat her once again. 26And the angel of the LORD moved on ahead and stood in a narrow place where there was no room to turn to the right or left. 27When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she lay down under Balaam, and he became furious and beat her with his staff. 28Then the LORD opened the donkey’s mouth, and she said to Balaam, “What have I done to you that you have beaten me these three times?” 29Balaam answered the donkey, “You have made a fool of me! If I had a sword in my hand, I would kill you right now!” 30But the donkey said to Balaam, “Am I not the donkey you have ridden all your life until today? Have I ever treated you this way before?” “No,” he replied. 31Then the LORD opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with a drawn sword in his hand. And Balaam bowed low and fell facedown. 32The angel of the LORD asked him, “Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? Behold, I have come out to oppose you, because your way is perversec before me. 33The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If she had not turned away, then by now I would surely have killed you and let her live.” 34“I have sinned,” Balaam said to the angel of the LORD, “for I did not realize that you were standing in the road to confront me. And now, if this is displeasing in your sight, I will go back home.” 35But the angel of the LORD said to Balaam, “Go with the men, but you are to speak only what I tell you.” So Balaam went with the princes of Balak. 36When Balak heard that Balaam was coming, he went out to meet him at the Moabite city on the Arnon border, at the edge of his territory. 37And he said to Balaam, “Did I not send you an urgent summons? Why did you not come to me? Am I really not able to reward you richly?” 38“See, I have come to you,” Balaam replied, “but can I say just anything? I must speak only the word that God puts in my mouth.” 39So Balaam accompanied Balak, and they came to Kiriath-huzoth. 40Balak sacrificed cattle and sheep, and he gave portions to Balaam and the princes who were with him. 41The next morning, Balak took Balaam and brought him up to Bamoth-baal. From there he could see the outskirts of the camp of the people. Footnotes: 5 a Hebrew the River 22 b Or Angel; here through the rest of chapter 22; corresponding pronouns may also be capitalized. 32 c Or reckless or contrary Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Numbers 22 Summary The Angel and Balaam's Donkey Verses 1–4 – Israel on the Plains of Moab After defeating Sihon and Og, the Israelites camp “in the plains of Moab, beyond the Jordan opposite Jericho.” Seeing the vast encampment, Moab panics and dreads what Israel might do to the land and its people. Verses 5–14 – Balak Sends for Balaam Balak, king of Moab, allies with Midianite leaders and dispatches messengers to Balaam son of Beor in Pethor (near the Euphrates). He asks Balaam to curse Israel so that Moab might defeat them. Balaam seeks God overnight, and the LORD replies, “You are not to curse this people, for they are blessed” (v. 12). Balaam refuses the first delegation. Verses 15–21 – A Second Embassy and Balaam’s Departure A more prestigious group arrives with richer promises. Balaam insists he can speak only what God allows, yet he entertains the offer. God permits him to go but warns: “Only the word I speak to you—that you shall do” (v. 20). Balaam saddles his donkey and sets out. Verses 22–35 – The Angel, the Donkey, and Balaam’s Awakening God’s anger burns because Balaam’s heart leans toward gain. The Angel of the LORD blocks the path three times; the donkey sees Him, Balaam does not. After Balaam beats the animal, “the LORD opened the donkey’s mouth” (v. 28), and she speaks. Balaam’s eyes are then opened to the sword-bearing Angel, who reaffirms that Balaam may go, but must utter only what God declares. Verses 36–41 – Balaam Meets Balak and Prepares to Speak Balak greets Balaam at the Moabite border city of Ar (Kirjath-huzoth). They offer sacrifices, then ascend to Bamoth-baal, from where Balaam sees a portion of Israel’s camp—setting the stage for the oracles in chapters 23–24. Numbers 22 depicts an intriguing narrative featuring a Moabite King, a prophet, his donkey, and an angel. King Balak, fearing the Israelites, seeks the prophecy of Balaam, a man renowned for his blessings and curses. A account full of divine interventions, complex characters, and miraculous events unfolds that challenges our understanding of obedience, perception, and morality. Historical Setting and Geography • Timeframe: Near the end of Israel’s 40-year wilderness journey, ca. 1406 BC. • Location: The “plains of Moab” lie east of the Jordan River, across from Jericho, a fertile plateau bordered by the Arnon River to the south. • Political climate: Moab and Midian, long-standing neighbors, unite out of fear. Israel has just defeated Amorite powers, shifting the regional balance. Key Characters • Balak son of Zippor: A leader driven by fear, reliant on spiritual manipulation rather than diplomacy. • Balaam son of Beor: A well-known diviner from Mesopotamia. His name appears in an 8th-century BC inscription at Deir ʿAlla, reading “Balaam son of Beor”—a striking extra-biblical link. • The Angel of the LORD: A visible Messenger who speaks with divine authority, reminding Balaam who truly controls blessing and curse. • The Donkey: An unlikely prophetic witness, exposing the blindness of a man renowned for “seeing” the unseen. The LORD’s Control of Blessing and Curse Numbers 22 showcases God’s unilateral right to bless Israel (Genesis 12:3). Balak believes curses can be bought; Balaam believes prophecy can be negotiated; both discover that God’s word is unchangeable (Isaiah 14:27). Greed and Compromise New Testament writers warn against “the way of Balaam” (2 Peter 2:15; Jude 11; Revelation 2:14). Balaam’s fee-seeking heart contrasts with Moses’ disinterest in reward (Numbers 16:15). His readiness to accompany Balak, despite God’s initial refusal, reveals a divided loyalty. Spiritual Sight vs. Spiritual Blindness • Three times the donkey sees the Angel; Balaam, famed for visions (24:3-4), sees nothing until God opens his eyes. • Similar reversal motifs: the serpent speaks in Eden (Genesis 3), a donkey speaks here—both times exposing human folly. • Paul echoes the theme when he prays that believers’ eyes be enlightened (Ephesians 1:18). Archaeological Notes • Deir ʿAlla Inscription (Jordan Valley): References “Balaam son of Beor, a seer of the gods,” confirming the historic memory of a non-Israelite prophet. • Moabite terrain: Steep wadis cut the plateau, explaining the narrow passages where the Angel confronts Balaam. Literary Structure 1. Fear of Moab (22:1-4) 2. Two embassies to Balaam (22:5-21) 3. Donkey narrative (22:22-35) 4. Meeting with Balak (22:36-41) The structure alternates between human schemes and divine interventions, underscoring that heaven, not earth, directs the storyline. Connections to Other Scriptures • Deuteronomy 23:4-5 remembers that God “turned the curse into a blessing.” • Joshua 24:9-10 recounts the episode to highlight God’s past faithfulness. • Micah 6:5 lists Balaam alongside the Exodus as proof of God’s righteous acts. • Revelation 2:14 warns the church in Pergamum about Balaam’s later counsel, showing the lasting impact of compromise. Foreshadowing Christ • Like Israel, Jesus is God’s blessed One whom no curse can harm (Galatians 3:13-14). • Balaam’s eventual oracles will foresee “a Star… a Scepter” rising from Israel (24:17), pointing forward to Messiah. • The Angel with a sword may prefigure Christ as Judge (Revelation 19:15). Practical Lessons • God’s promises stand, regardless of opposition. • Spiritual gifts never replace obedience; Balaam prophesies truly yet lives falsely. • Material gain can cloud discernment; believers must guard the heart (1 Timothy 6:10). • Even animals—and unexpected people—can be God’s mouthpieces; humility keeps ears open. Connections to Additional Scriptures God’s Protection Psalm 91:11 - For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. Obedience to God 1 Samuel 15:22 - Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice. God’s Sovereignty Proverbs 19:21 - Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail. Teaching Points The Fear of Israel Balak, the king of Moab, is terrified of the Israelites because of their numbers and their recent victories. He seeks to curse them through Balaam, a renowned prophet. This highlights how the presence and power of God’s people can instill fear in those who oppose them (Numbers 22:3-6). God’s Sovereignty Despite Balak’s intentions, God is in control. He instructs Balaam not to curse the Israelites because they are blessed. This demonstrates that God’s blessings cannot be overturned by human schemes (Numbers 22:12). Balaam’s Dilemma Balaam is caught between obeying God and the temptation of wealth and honor offered by Balak. His struggle reflects the tension between divine obedience and worldly desires (Numbers 22:16-18). The Talking Donkey God opens the mouth of Balaam’s donkey to speak, revealing Balaam’s spiritual blindness. This miraculous event underscores God’s ability to use any means to communicate His message (Numbers 22:28-30). God’s Message through Balaam Despite Balaam’s initial intentions, God uses him to bless Israel instead of cursing them. This illustrates that God’s purposes will prevail, regardless of human intentions (Numbers 22:38). Practical Applications Trust in God’s Protection Just as God protected Israel from Balak’s schemes, we can trust that He will protect us from the plans of those who seek to harm us. Obedience Over Worldly Gain Balaam’s account reminds us to prioritize obedience to God over the pursuit of wealth or honor. Awareness of Spiritual Blindness We should be vigilant against spiritual blindness and remain open to God’s guidance, even if it comes from unexpected sources. God’s Sovereignty in Our Lives Recognize that God can use any situation or person to fulfill His purposes in our lives, even when it seems unlikely. People 1. Balak Balak is the son of Zippor and the king of Moab. He is concerned about the Israelites' presence and seeks to curse them through Balaam. The Hebrew root for his name, בָּלָק (Balaq), means "devastator" or "waster." 2. Balaam Balaam is the son of Beor, a prophet or diviner from Pethor. He is summoned by Balak to curse the Israelites but ultimately blesses them instead. His name in Hebrew, בִּלְעָם (Bil'am), can mean "not of the people" or "devourer." 3. The Elders of Moab and Midian These are the representatives sent by Balak to Balaam with the request to curse the Israelites. They play a role in conveying Balak's message and offer payment for Balaam's services. 4. The Angel of the LORD This divine messenger appears to Balaam on his journey to Moab, standing in his path with a drawn sword. The Hebrew term for "angel" is מַלְאָךְ (mal'akh), meaning "messenger." 5. Balaam's Donkey Although not a person, the donkey is a significant character in the narrative. It sees the Angel of the LORD and speaks to Balaam after being struck by him. The Hebrew word for donkey is אָתוֹן (aton). Places 1. Moab Moab is the region where Balak, the son of Zippor, is king. The Israelites camped in the plains of Moab, beyond the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. Moab is significant as the setting for the events involving Balaam and Balak. The Hebrew root for Moab is מוֹאָב (Mo'av), which is often associated with the descendants of Lot. 2. Pethor Pethor is the place where Balaam resides. It is described as being by the Euphrates River in the land of the people of his kin. The Hebrew text refers to it as פְּתוֹר (Pethor), indicating its location in Mesopotamia, which is significant as it shows Balaam's origins and the distance Balak was willing to go to seek his services. 3. River The "River" mentioned in the context of Pethor is the Euphrates River. This is a major river in the region, and its mention helps to geographically situate Pethor. The Hebrew term used is נָהָר (nahar), which is a general term for a river but contextually refers to the Euphrates. Events 1. Balak's Fear of Israel Balak, the king of Moab, sees the Israelites encamped on the plains of Moab and becomes fearful because of their numbers and their recent victories over the Amorites. He sends messengers to Balaam, a diviner, to curse the Israelites. (Numbers 22:1-6) 2. Balaam's Initial Response The elders of Moab and Midian deliver Balak's message to Balaam, along with payment for divination. Balaam instructs them to stay overnight as he seeks the LORD's guidance. God speaks to Balaam, asking, "Who are these men with you?" (Numbers 22:7-9) 3. God's Command to Balaam God tells Balaam not to go with the men and not to curse the Israelites, for they are blessed. Balaam relays this message to Balak's messengers, refusing to go with them. (Numbers 22:10-13) 4. Balak's Persistence Balak sends more numerous and distinguished officials to Balaam, offering him great honor and rewards if he curses the Israelites. Balaam responds that even if Balak gave him his house full of silver and gold, he could not go beyond the word of the LORD. (Numbers 22:14-18) 5. God's Conditional Permission God permits Balaam to go with the men, but only if they call him, and instructs him to do only what He commands. Balaam rises in the morning and saddles his donkey to go with the Moabite officials. (Numbers 22:19-21) 6. The Angel of the LORD Opposes Balaam God's anger is kindled because Balaam goes, and the Angel of the LORD stands in the road to oppose him. Balaam's donkey sees the Angel and turns aside, but Balaam strikes the donkey to get it back on the path. (Numbers 22:22-23) 7. The Donkey Speaks After the donkey sees the Angel of the LORD three times and turns aside, Balaam strikes it each time. The LORD opens the donkey's mouth, and it speaks to Balaam, questioning why it has been beaten. Balaam converses with the donkey, unaware of the Angel's presence. (Numbers 22:24-30) 8. Balaam's Eyes Opened The LORD opens Balaam's eyes, and he sees the Angel of the LORD standing in the road with a drawn sword. Balaam bows low and falls facedown. The Angel questions Balaam's actions and reiterates that the donkey saved his life. (Numbers 22:31-33) 9. Balaam's Repentance Balaam acknowledges his sin, stating he did not realize the Angel was opposing him. He offers to return home if his journey displeases the LORD. The Angel instructs Balaam to continue but to speak only what he is told. (Numbers 22:34-35) 10. Balaam Meets Balak Balaam arrives in Moab, and Balak goes out to meet him at the city of Moab's border. Balak questions why Balaam did not come sooner, and Balaam reiterates that he can only speak the words God puts in his mouth. (Numbers 22:36-38) 11. Preparations for the Curse Balak sacrifices cattle and sheep, and he and Balaam feast together. The next day, Balak takes Balaam to the high places of Baal to view the Israelites, setting the stage for the attempted curse. (Numbers 22:39-41) Lessons from Numbers 22 1. God’s Sovereignty Over All Nations In Numbers 22, we see that God is not just the God of Israel but has authority over all nations. Balak, the king of Moab, fears the Israelites and seeks to curse them through Balaam. Yet, God’s plans cannot be thwarted by human schemes. As it is written, “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind” (Numbers 23:19). This reminds us that God’s will prevails over all earthly powers. 2. The Danger of Greed Balaam’s story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed. Despite knowing God’s will, Balaam is tempted by the riches offered by Balak. This serves as a reminder that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). We must guard our hearts against the allure of wealth and remain steadfast in our faith. 3. God Speaks Through Unexpected Means In a surprising turn of events, God uses Balaam’s donkey to deliver a message. When Balaam’s eyes are opened, he realizes the angel of the Lord was blocking his path. This teaches us that God can use any means to communicate with us, even the most unexpected ones. As we read, “Then the LORD opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the Angel of the LORD standing in the road” (Numbers 22:31). 4. The Importance of Obedience Balaam’s initial reluctance to follow God’s command highlights the importance of obedience. God’s instructions are clear, and our response should be immediate and unwavering. “But Balaam replied, ‘Must I not speak what the LORD puts in my mouth?’” (Numbers 22:38). Obedience to God’s word is paramount in our walk of faith. 5. God’s Protection Over His People Despite Balak’s attempts to curse Israel, God’s protection over His people is evident. The Israelites are blessed, not cursed, because they are under God’s care. “How can I curse whom God has not cursed? How can I denounce whom the LORD has not denounced?” (Numbers 23:8). This reassures us of God’s unwavering protection over those who trust in Him. 6. The Power of Blessing Balaam’s story illustrates the power of blessing. Instead of curses, blessings are pronounced over Israel, demonstrating that God’s blessings are more powerful than any curse. “The LORD their God is with them, and the shout of the King is among them” (Numbers 23:21). We are reminded to speak blessings over others, knowing their profound impact. 7. God’s Unchanging Nature Throughout the narrative, God’s unchanging nature is emphasized. His promises and purposes remain steadfast. “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind” (Numbers 23:19). This assures us that we can rely on God’s faithfulness in every circumstance. 8. The Futility of Opposing God’s Will Balak’s repeated attempts to curse Israel highlight the futility of opposing God’s will. No matter how determined we are, God’s plans will always prevail. “I have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot change it” (Numbers 23:20). This encourages us to align our desires with God’s purposes. 9. The Role of Divine Intervention God’s intervention in Balaam’s journey underscores His active role in guiding and protecting His people. The angel of the Lord stands as a barrier, ensuring Balaam’s actions align with God’s will. “The Angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path through the vineyards” (Numbers 22:24). We are reminded that God intervenes in our lives to direct our paths. 10. The Call to Faithfulness Ultimately, Numbers 22 calls us to faithfulness. Balaam’s story is a reminder to remain true to God’s word, regardless of external pressures. “Even if Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the command of the LORD my God to do anything small or great” (Numbers 22:18). Let us commit to living faithfully, trusting in God’s perfect plan for our lives. These lessons from Numbers 22 encourage us to trust in God’s sovereignty, remain obedient, and embrace His blessings, knowing that His plans are always for our good. Topics 1. Balak's Fear of Israel (Numbers 22:1-4) The Israelites camp in the plains of Moab, and Balak, the king of Moab, becomes fearful of their numbers and potential threat. The Hebrew root for "fear" (יָרֵא, yare) indicates a deep-seated dread or terror, reflecting Balak's anxiety over Israel's presence. 2. Balak Sends for Balaam (Numbers 22:5-7) Balak sends messengers to Balaam, a diviner, asking him to curse Israel. The term "curse" (אָרַר, arar) in Hebrew implies invoking harm or misfortune, highlighting Balak's desire to weaken Israel through spiritual means. 3. God's Initial Response to Balaam (Numbers 22:8-12) God instructs Balaam not to go with the Moabite messengers and not to curse Israel, for they are blessed. The Hebrew word for "blessed" (בָּרַךְ, barak) signifies divine favor and protection, underscoring Israel's covenant relationship with God. 4. Balak's Persistence (Numbers 22:13-17) Balak sends more distinguished officials with greater rewards to persuade Balaam. This persistence reflects Balak's desperation and belief in Balaam's power to influence spiritual outcomes. 5. Balaam's Second Encounter with God (Numbers 22:18-21) Balaam seeks God's permission again, and God allows him to go but only to speak what He commands. This highlights the sovereignty of God over human intentions and the limitations placed on Balaam's actions. 6. The Angel of the LORD Opposes Balaam (Numbers 22:22-27) As Balaam travels, the Angel of the LORD stands in his path, causing Balaam's donkey to stop. The Hebrew term for "angel" (מַלְאָךְ, malak) can mean messenger, indicating a divine intervention to prevent Balaam from acting against God's will. 7. Balaam's Donkey Speaks (Numbers 22:28-30) God opens the donkey's mouth, and it speaks to Balaam, questioning his treatment. This miraculous event emphasizes God's control over creation and serves as a rebuke to Balaam's spiritual blindness. 8. Balaam's Eyes Opened (Numbers 22:31-35) Balaam's eyes are opened to see the Angel of the LORD, who warns him to speak only God's words. This encounter reinforces the theme of divine authority and the necessity of obedience to God's commands. 9. Balaam Meets Balak (Numbers 22:36-41) Balaam finally meets Balak, who takes him to view the Israelites. Despite Balak's expectations, the narrative sets the stage for Balaam's eventual blessing of Israel, contrary to Balak's desires. Themes 1. Divine Sovereignty and Control In Numbers 22, God's sovereignty is evident as He controls the events surrounding Balaam and Balak. Despite Balak's attempts to curse Israel, God intervenes, demonstrating His ultimate authority over nations and individuals. The Hebrew root for "God" (אֱלֹהִים, Elohim) emphasizes His power and majesty. 2. The Danger of Greed and Corruption Balaam's account highlights the peril of greed and the temptation to compromise one's integrity for material gain. Despite knowing God's will, Balaam is swayed by the promise of wealth and honor from Balak. The Hebrew word for "reward" (שָׂכָר, sakar) underscores the material enticement that leads Balaam astray. 3. God's Communication and Guidance God communicates His will to Balaam through various means, including direct speech and the miraculous event with the donkey. This theme underscores the importance of seeking and heeding divine guidance. The Hebrew term for "word" (דָּבָר, dabar) signifies the authoritative and purposeful nature of God's communication. 4. The Supernatural and Miraculous The account of Balaam's donkey speaking is a clear demonstration of the supernatural. This event serves as a reminder of God's ability to use extraordinary means to fulfill His purposes and convey His messages. The Hebrew word for "opened" (פָּתַח, pathach) in reference to the donkey's mouth highlights the miraculous intervention by God. 5. Obedience and Disobedience Balaam's internal struggle between obedience to God and his own desires is a central theme. His initial disobedience is met with divine correction, illustrating the importance of aligning one's actions with God's commands. The Hebrew root for "obey" (שָׁמַע, shama) emphasizes the act of listening and responding to God's voice. 6. God's Protection of His People Throughout the narrative, God's protection over Israel is evident as He prevents Balaam from cursing them. This theme reflects God's covenant faithfulness and His commitment to safeguarding His chosen people. The Hebrew word for "bless" (בָּרַךְ, barak) contrasts with the intended curse, highlighting God's protective blessing. 7. The Futility of Opposing God's Will Balak's repeated attempts to manipulate Balaam into cursing Israel demonstrate the futility of opposing God's will. Despite human efforts, God's purposes prevail, reinforcing the theme of His unassailable plan. The Hebrew term for "curse" (אָרַר, arar) is rendered powerless in the face of God's sovereign will. Prayer Points Pray for trust in God’s protection and sovereignty over our lives. Ask for strength to prioritize obedience to God over worldly temptations. Seek God’s guidance to remain spiritually aware and open to His messages. Thank God for His faithfulness in using all circumstances for His glory and our good. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can a donkey speak in Numbers 22:28–30 without contradicting the known biological limitations of animals? 2. If God permitted Balaam to go (Numbers 22:20), why did He become angry with him later (Numbers 22:22)? 3. Why does the angel appear to the donkey first rather than Balaam in Numbers 22:23–25, suggesting the animal has greater insight than the prophet? 4. How does God’s change from forbidding Balaam to go (Numbers 22:12) to eventually permitting him (Numbers 22:20) align with the concept of divine consistency? 5. Is there any historical or archaeological evidence supporting the existence of Balaam and the events of Numbers 22? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Why did Balak feel threatened by the Israelites? How do you respond when you feel threatened? 2. What does Balak's act of reaching out to Balaam suggest about his belief system? 3. How did Balaam respond to the messengers initially? What does this tell us about his character? 4. Discuss the significance of Balaam seeking God’s counsel before making a decision. 5. How does God's reaction to Balaam's decision to go with Balak's men explore the tension between free will and divine will? 6. In what ways does Balaam's donkey demonstrate wisdom and insight that Balaam lacks? 7. What is the significance of the donkey speaking? What does this teach us about divine intervention? 8. How does the angel’s rebuke of Balaam explore themes of justice and humility? 9. Why does God eventually allow Balaam to go with Balak's men? How does this relate to our understanding of God's plans? 10. How does Balaam's interaction with the angel shift his perception of his journey? 11. Discuss the role of divine intervention in Balaam's journey. How does God intervene in our lives today? 12. How does the story of Balaam teach us to discern between our desires and God's will? 13. What does Balaam's experience teach us about the power of our words and blessings? 14. How can we apply the lesson of only speaking God's words in our daily lives? 15. What lessons about repentance and humility can we learn from Balaam's encounter with the angel? 16. In modern times, how can we identify when we are like Balaam, more focused on our desires than on God's plan? 17. In what ways are we sometimes like Balaam's donkey, seeing God's message when others don't? 18. How can we ensure our actions align with God's will, as opposed to our personal desires or the expectations of others? 19. In what ways does the story of Balaam resonate with you personally? 20. How can you apply the lessons from this story to your current life circumstances? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions