Numbers 22:31

Then 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.

Study Bible

Then the LORD opened Balaam’s eyes
In this phrase, the Hebrew word for "opened" is "פָּקַח" (paqach), which implies a divine intervention that allows Balaam to perceive spiritual realities previously hidden from him. This act of God opening Balaam's eyes signifies a moment of revelation and understanding, emphasizing that true spiritual insight comes from God alone. In a broader biblical context, this mirrors other instances where God grants vision or understanding, such as Elisha's servant in 2 Kings 6:17. It serves as a reminder that human perception is limited without divine enlightenment.

and he saw the Angel of the LORD
The "Angel of the LORD" is a significant figure in the Old Testament, often considered a theophany, or a manifestation of God Himself. The Hebrew term "מַלְאַךְ יְהוָה" (mal'akh YHWH) suggests a messenger with divine authority. This encounter underscores the seriousness of Balaam's mission and the divine oversight involved. Historically, the Angel of the LORD appears at critical moments, guiding, protecting, or correcting God's people, as seen with Hagar in Genesis 16 and Joshua in Joshua 5. This highlights God's active involvement in the affairs of humanity.

standing in the road with a drawn sword in His hand
The imagery of the "drawn sword" is a powerful symbol of judgment and authority. In Hebrew, "חֶרֶב שְׁלוּפָה" (cherev shluphah) conveys readiness for action, often associated with divine judgment or protection. This scene echoes other biblical moments, such as the cherubim guarding Eden (Genesis 3:24) and the commander of the LORD's army confronting Joshua (Joshua 5:13-15). It serves as a stark reminder of God's power and the seriousness of opposing His will.

and he bowed low and fell facedown
Balaam's response of bowing and falling facedown is an act of worship and submission, recognizing the divine presence and authority before him. The Hebrew "וַיִּקֹּד וַיִּשְׁתַּחוּ" (vayikod vayishtachav) indicates a deep reverence and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. This posture is consistent with other biblical figures who encounter the divine, such as Abraham (Genesis 17:3) and Moses (Exodus 34:8). It reflects the appropriate human response to God's holiness and majesty, inspiring believers to approach God with humility and reverence.

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 Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who appears to Balaam on the road. The Angel of the LORD is often seen as a theophany, a visible manifestation of God Himself, which is significant in this encounter.

3. The Road to Moab
The setting of this encounter, where Balaam is traveling to meet Balak. The road symbolizes Balaam's journey and the spiritual crossroads he faces.

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

5. The Donkey
Balaam's donkey, which sees the Angel of the LORD before Balaam does, and attempts to avoid the angel, leading to Balaam's eyes being opened by God.

Teaching Points

Divine Intervention
God intervenes in our lives, often in unexpected ways, to guide us back to His path. We must be open to recognizing His presence and direction.

Spiritual Blindness
Like Balaam, we can be spiritually blind to God's work around us. We should pray for God to open our eyes to His truth and guidance.

Humility Before God
Balaam's response of bowing low and falling facedown is a model of humility and reverence before God. We should approach God with the same attitude of submission.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human intentions, God's will prevails. Balaam's account reminds us that God's plans cannot be thwarted by human actions.

Listening to God's Voice
Balaam's encounter teaches us the importance of listening to God's voice, even when it contradicts our own desires or plans.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Balaam's encounter with the Angel of the LORD challenge our understanding of spiritual awareness in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are spiritually open to seeing God's interventions in our lives, similar to Balaam's experience?

3. How does Balaam's response to the Angel of the LORD inform our own posture and attitude in worship and prayer?

4. What are some modern-day "roads" we travel that might require divine intervention, and how can we be attentive to God's guidance?

5. How do the accounts of divine encounters in the Bible, such as Balaam's, encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty and ultimate plan for our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 16:7-13
The Angel of the LORD appears to Hagar, showing the recurring theme of divine intervention and guidance.

2 Kings 6:17
Elisha prays for his servant's eyes to be opened to see the heavenly army, paralleling Balaam's eyes being opened to see the Angel of the LORD.

Acts 9:3-8
Saul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, where his spiritual eyes are opened, similar to Balaam's experience.