Introduction:
Balaam's First Oracle is a significant event recorded in the Book of Numbers, specifically in Numbers 23:7-10. This oracle is part of a series of prophecies delivered by Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, who was summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. Instead, Balaam's oracles pronounce blessings upon Israel, demonstrating God's sovereign will and protection over His chosen people.

Context:
The narrative of Balaam unfolds as the Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, are encamped on the plains of Moab, near the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. Balak, fearing the might and numbers of the Israelites, seeks to employ Balaam to curse them, hoping to weaken them and secure victory. Despite Balak's intentions, God intervenes, instructing Balaam to speak only the words He puts in Balaam's mouth.

The Oracle:
Balaam's First Oracle begins with him taking up his discourse, as recorded in Numbers 23:7-10 :

"Then Balaam uttered his oracle, saying:
'Balak brought me from Aram,
the king of Moab from the mountains of the east.
“Come,” he said, “put a curse on Jacob for me;
come, denounce Israel!”
How can I curse what God has not cursed?
How can I denounce what the LORD has not denounced?
For I see them from the top of the cliffs,
and I watch them from the hills.
Behold, a people who dwell apart,
who will not be reckoned among the nations.
Who can count the dust of Jacob
or number even a fourth of Israel?
Let me die the death of the righteous,
and may my end be like theirs!'"

Analysis:
1. Divine Sovereignty: Balaam's oracle underscores the sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations. Despite Balak's desire for a curse, Balaam acknowledges that he cannot curse those whom God has blessed. This highlights the futility of opposing God's will and the protection He affords His people.

2. Israel's Distinctiveness: The oracle emphasizes the unique status of Israel as a nation set apart by God. Balaam observes that Israel "will not be reckoned among the nations," indicating their special covenant relationship with God. This distinctiveness is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where Israel is called to be a holy nation and a kingdom of priests (Exodus 19:6).

3. Numerical Growth: Balaam marvels at the vastness of Israel, likening them to the dust of the earth. This imagery recalls God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore (Genesis 22:17). The oracle thus reaffirms God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.

4. Righteousness and Hope: Balaam's desire to "die the death of the righteous" reflects an acknowledgment of the blessed state of those who are aligned with God's purposes. It suggests a recognition of the ultimate hope and destiny of the righteous, contrasting with the fate of those who oppose God.

Theological Implications:
Balaam's First Oracle serves as a testament to God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His people. It illustrates the principle that God's purposes cannot be thwarted by human schemes. The oracle also foreshadows the ultimate blessing that would come through Israel, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ, through whom all nations would be blessed (Galatians 3:8).

Conclusion:
While Balaam's First Oracle is just the beginning of his prophetic declarations, it sets the tone for the subsequent oracles, each reinforcing the theme of divine blessing and protection over Israel. The narrative invites readers to reflect on the power and faithfulness of God, who remains true to His word and His people.