Numbers 22:25

And 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.

Study Bible

And the donkey saw the angel of the LORD
In this passage, the donkey perceives the divine presence, which Balaam, a renowned prophet, fails to see. This highlights the theme of spiritual blindness and the irony of a prophet being less perceptive than an animal. The "angel of the LORD" often represents God's direct intervention, as seen in other biblical narratives such as Genesis 16:7-13 and Judges 6:11-24, where the angel acts as a divine messenger or even a theophany, a visible manifestation of God.

and pressed herself against the wall
The setting involves a narrow path with walls on either side, likely a vineyard or a rocky terrain common in the region of Moab. The donkey's action is a response to the divine presence, indicating an instinctual reverence or fear. This physical reaction underscores the seriousness of the divine encounter and the urgency of the message being conveyed.

crushing Balaam’s foot against it
This physical injury serves as a tangible consequence of Balaam's spiritual obstinacy. It symbolizes the pain and hindrance that result from resisting God's will. In a broader biblical context, physical afflictions often accompany spiritual lessons, as seen in Jacob's wrestling with God in Genesis 32:24-31, where he is left with a limp as a reminder of his encounter with the divine.

So he beat her once again
Balaam's reaction reflects his frustration and lack of understanding of the situation. His repeated beating of the donkey shows his anger and impatience, traits that contrast with the patience and mercy often associated with God's character. This action also foreshadows Balaam's eventual realization and repentance, as God uses the donkey to open his eyes to the spiritual reality. The narrative emphasizes the theme of divine patience and the lengths to which God will go to communicate His will, even using unexpected means.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet who is summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. Balaam is known for his interactions with God and his eventual blessing of Israel instead of cursing them.

2. The Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who stands in the path of Balaam's donkey, causing the donkey to turn aside. This angel represents God's intervention and guidance.

3. Balaam's Donkey
The animal that Balaam rides, which sees the Angel of the LORD and turns aside, pressing Balaam's foot against a wall. The donkey's actions are pivotal in the account, highlighting divine intervention.

4. Balak
The king of Moab who fears the Israelites and seeks Balaam's help to curse them. His actions set the stage for the events involving Balaam and the donkey.

5. Moab
The region ruled by Balak, where the Israelites are encamped. It serves as the backdrop for the unfolding events between Balaam, Balak, and the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Divine Intervention
God often intervenes in unexpected ways to guide and correct us. Balaam's experience reminds us to be attentive to God's direction, even when it comes through unusual means.

Spiritual Blindness
Balaam's inability to see the Angel of the LORD contrasts with the donkey's perception. This serves as a reminder to seek spiritual discernment and be open to God's guidance.

Obedience to God
Despite external pressures, like those from Balak, we must remain obedient to God's will. Balaam's account encourages us to prioritize God's commands over human desires.

Humility and Repentance
Balaam's encounter with the Angel of the LORD calls for humility and repentance when we realize our errors. We should be quick to acknowledge our mistakes and seek God's forgiveness.

God's Sovereignty
The account underscores God's control over all situations. Even when others intend harm, God can turn circumstances for His purposes and our good.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Balaam's interaction with his donkey challenge us to be more aware of God's guidance in our lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not spiritually blind to God's interventions, as Balaam was initially?

3. How can Balaam's account encourage us to remain obedient to God when faced with external pressures or temptations?

4. What steps can we take to cultivate humility and a willingness to repent when we recognize our mistakes?

5. How does the account of Balaam and his donkey illustrate God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our trust in Him during difficult situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham and Isaac, where God intervenes through an angel, parallels the divine intervention seen with Balaam and his donkey.

2 Peter 2:15-16
This passage references Balaam's error and the speaking donkey, emphasizing the theme of divine intervention and correction.

Revelation 2:14
Balaam is mentioned in the context of leading others into sin, highlighting the consequences of straying from God's path.