Numbers 22:33

The 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."

Study Bible

The donkey saw me
In this phrase, the donkey's ability to perceive the angel of the LORD is highlighted. The Hebrew word for "saw" is "ra'ah," which means to see, perceive, or have vision. This emphasizes the spiritual insight granted to the donkey, which Balaam, a prophet, lacked at that moment. The donkey's vision contrasts with Balaam's spiritual blindness, reminding us that God can use the most unexpected means to reveal His presence and will. This serves as a humbling reminder that human wisdom and status do not guarantee spiritual insight.

and turned away from me
The phrase "turned away" comes from the Hebrew "natah," meaning to turn aside or deviate. The donkey's action of turning away from the angel signifies obedience and reverence for God's messenger. This act of turning away is a physical manifestation of repentance or changing direction, which is a central theme in the Bible. It illustrates the importance of responding to God's warnings and guidance, even when it requires altering our course.

these three times
The repetition of "three times" is significant in biblical literature, often symbolizing completeness or emphasis. In this context, it underscores the persistent efforts of the donkey to protect Balaam from danger. The number three is frequently used in Scripture to denote a complete cycle or a significant event, such as Jesus' resurrection on the third day. Here, it highlights the thoroughness of God's intervention and the patience He extends to Balaam, giving him multiple opportunities to recognize the divine warning.

If she had not turned away
This conditional statement introduces a hypothetical scenario, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. The phrase "had not turned away" suggests the potential consequences of ignoring divine intervention. It serves as a warning about the dangers of stubbornness and disobedience. The donkey's actions prevented Balaam from facing immediate judgment, illustrating God's mercy and the importance of heeding His warnings.

I would have surely killed you
The phrase "I would have surely killed you" is a direct and sobering declaration of the consequences Balaam faced. The Hebrew construction here is emphatic, underscoring the certainty of the judgment that would have occurred. This highlights God's justice and the seriousness of sin. It serves as a reminder that God's patience has limits and that persistent disobedience can lead to severe consequences.

but let her live
The mercy shown to the donkey, "but let her live," contrasts with the judgment Balaam would have faced. This phrase underscores God's compassion and the value He places on all His creation. The donkey's life is spared as a testament to God's grace and as a symbol of His willingness to use humble and unexpected means to accomplish His purposes. It serves as an encouragement that God values obedience and faithfulness, regardless of one's status or role.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet who is summoned by Balak, 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 Balaam's path to oppose him. The Angel's presence signifies God's intervention and protection over Israel.

3. The Donkey
Balaam's donkey, which sees the Angel of the LORD and turns aside three times to avoid Him. The donkey's actions are pivotal in revealing God's will to Balaam.

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 in this chapter.

5. Moab
The region where Balak rules and where the Israelites are encamped, causing fear among the Moabites.

Teaching Points

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

Spiritual Blindness
Balaam's inability to see the Angel of the LORD contrasts with the donkey's spiritual perception. We must seek spiritual discernment to recognize God's presence and guidance in our lives.

Obedience and Repentance
Balaam's account reminds us of the importance of aligning our actions with God's will. When confronted with our errors, we should be quick to repent and obey.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human intentions, God's purposes will prevail. We can trust in His sovereign plan, even when circumstances seem contrary.

Moral Integrity
Balaam's initial willingness to curse Israel for gain warns us against compromising our integrity for personal benefit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Balaam and his donkey challenge us to be more attentive to God's guidance in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we cultivate spiritual discernment to avoid the kind of blindness Balaam experienced?

3. Reflect on a time when God used an unexpected person or situation to communicate His will to you. How did you respond?

4. How does Balaam's account illustrate the dangers of prioritizing personal gain over obedience to God?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our actions align with God's sovereign purposes, even when faced with external pressures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham and Isaac, where God intervenes through an angel to prevent harm, similar to how the Angel of the LORD intervenes in Balaam's journey.

2 Peter 2:15-16
Peter references Balaam's account, highlighting his error and the donkey's role in restraining Balaam's madness.

Revelation 2:14
Balaam is mentioned in the context of leading others into sin, showing the long-term impact of his actions.