Context and Background:
Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, is a central figure in the narrative found in the Book of Numbers, chapters 22-24. He is summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites who are encamped on the plains of Moab, near the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. Despite Balak's insistence and the promise of great reward, Balaam is constrained by God to speak only what God commands.

The Setting of the Second Oracle:
Balaam's second oracle occurs after the initial attempt to curse Israel is thwarted by God, resulting in a blessing instead. Balak, undeterred, takes Balaam to another location, the field of Zophim on the top of Pisgah, hoping that a change of scenery might influence the outcome (Numbers 23:14). Here, seven altars are again built, and sacrifices are offered.

Content of the Second Oracle:
In Numbers 23:18-24, Balaam delivers his second oracle. The Berean Standard Bible records:

"Then Balaam lifted up an oracle, saying: 'Rise up, Balak, and hear; give ear to me, O son of Zippor. God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill? Behold, I have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot change it. No misfortune is found in Jacob, and no misery is seen in Israel. The LORD their God is with them, and the shout of the King is among them. God brought them out of Egypt with strength like a wild ox. For there is no spell against Jacob, nor any divination against Israel. It will now be said of Jacob and Israel, ‘See what God has done!’ The people rise like a lioness; they rouse themselves like a lion. They will not lie down until they devour their prey and drink the blood of the slain.'"

Theological Significance:
Balaam's second oracle underscores several key theological themes:

1. Immutability of God: The oracle begins with a profound declaration of God's unchanging nature. Unlike humans, God does not lie or change His mind. This affirms the reliability and faithfulness of God's promises to Israel.

2. Divine Blessing: Despite Balak's desire for a curse, Balaam emphasizes that he has received a command to bless Israel, and this divine blessing is irrevocable. The oracle highlights the futility of opposing God's will.

3. God's Presence and Protection: The oracle affirms that God is with Israel, and His presence is likened to the "shout of the King." This signifies divine protection and the assurance of victory over their enemies.

4. Deliverance and Strength: The imagery of God bringing Israel out of Egypt with the strength of a wild ox reflects God's mighty acts of deliverance and His empowering presence among His people.

5. Inviolability of Israel: The oracle declares that no sorcery or divination can succeed against Israel, emphasizing the nation's unique status and divine protection.

6. Future Triumph: The imagery of Israel rising like a lioness and not resting until they have devoured their prey speaks to the future triumph and dominance of Israel over their adversaries.

Implications for Israel and Balak:
For Israel, Balaam's second oracle is a reaffirmation of God's covenantal promises and His unwavering commitment to their welfare. For Balak, it is a clear message that his efforts to curse Israel are in vain, as God's purposes cannot be thwarted by human schemes or desires. The oracle serves as a testament to the sovereignty of God over the nations and His special relationship with Israel.