Numbers 22:28

Then 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?"

Study Bible

Then the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey
This phrase marks a miraculous intervention by God, where He enables an animal to speak. The Hebrew word for "opened" is "פָּתַח" (pathach), which implies a divine action of granting ability or permission. In the ancient Near Eastern context, animals were often seen as mere beasts of burden, yet here, God uses a donkey to convey His message, demonstrating His sovereignty over all creation. This act serves as a reminder that God can use the most unexpected means to fulfill His purposes and communicate His will.

and she said to Balaam
The donkey, a humble and lowly creature, becomes the mouthpiece of God, speaking directly to Balaam. The Hebrew verb "אָמַר" (amar) is used here, which is a common term for speaking or saying. This highlights the irony and the divine humor in the situation, as Balaam, a renowned seer, is unable to perceive the angel of the LORD, while his donkey can. This serves as a humbling lesson that human wisdom and status are insignificant compared to divine insight and revelation.

What have I done to you
The donkey's question is both simple and profound, inviting Balaam to reflect on his actions. The phrase underscores the innocence of the donkey and the irrationality of Balaam's anger. In a broader theological sense, it prompts readers to consider their own actions and attitudes, especially when they act out of frustration or anger without understanding the full picture. It is a call to self-examination and humility before God.

to make you beat me
The act of beating the donkey is a reflection of Balaam's frustration and lack of control. The Hebrew word "הִכִּיתַנִי" (hikithani) implies a physical act of striking, which in this context, is unjust and unwarranted. This phrase serves as a metaphor for how people often react harshly to situations they do not understand, rather than seeking God's guidance and wisdom. It is a reminder of the importance of patience and seeking divine perspective in times of confusion or anger.

these three times?
The repetition of the beating "three times" emphasizes Balaam's persistent blindness and stubbornness. In biblical numerology, the number three often signifies completeness or emphasis. This detail highlights the extent of Balaam's spiritual blindness and the need for divine intervention to open his eyes. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ignoring God's signs and persisting in one's own way without seeking His guidance. The repetition also underscores God's patience and mercy, as He provides multiple opportunities for Balaam to recognize his error and repent.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet or diviner 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 Donkey
Balaam's donkey, which becomes a key figure in this account. God opens the donkey's mouth to speak to Balaam, highlighting the miraculous nature of the event.

3. The Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who stands in the path of Balaam and his donkey, unseen by Balaam but visible to the donkey. The angel's presence is a critical element in the unfolding of God's will.

4. Moab
The region ruled by King Balak, who is fearful of the Israelites and seeks Balaam's help to curse them.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who intervenes in Balaam's journey, demonstrating His sovereignty and control over the situation.

Teaching Points

Divine Intervention
God can use any means, even a donkey, to accomplish His purposes and communicate His will. We should remain open to unexpected ways God might speak to us.

Spiritual Blindness
Balaam's inability to see the angel initially highlights the danger of spiritual blindness. We must seek God's guidance to see His work in our lives.

Obedience to God
Balaam's account reminds us of the importance of aligning our actions with God's will, even when it contradicts our desires or plans.

Humility and Repentance
Balaam's encounter with the speaking donkey is a call to humility and repentance. We should be willing to admit when we are wrong and change our course.

God's Sovereignty
The account underscores God's ultimate control over all situations, reassuring us that His plans will prevail despite human intentions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Balaam and his donkey challenge our understanding of how God can communicate with us today?

2. In what ways can spiritual blindness affect our ability to discern God's will, and how can we guard against it?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced an unexpected intervention in your life. How did it shape your understanding of God's sovereignty?

4. How can Balaam's account encourage us to remain humble and open to correction in our spiritual journey?

5. What other biblical accounts illustrate God's use of unexpected means to fulfill His purposes, and what can we learn from them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham and Isaac, where God intervenes in a significant moment, parallels the divine intervention seen in Balaam's account.

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

Psalm 32:8-9
These verses speak of God's guidance and the importance of not being stubborn like a horse or mule, which can be related to Balaam's initial resistance to God's will.