Translations
Modern
‘Behold, a people has come out of Egypt, and they cover the face of the land. Now come and put a curse on them for me. Perhaps I may be able to fight against them and drive them away.’”
Traditional
Behold, there is a people come out of Egypt, which covereth the face of the earth: come now, curse me them; peradventure I shall be able to overcome them, and drive them out.
Literal
‘Behold, a people has come out of Egypt, and have covered the eye of the land. Now come, curse them for me. Perhaps I will be able to overpower them and drive them out.’”
Latin
…dicens: Ecce populus qui egressus est de Ægypto, operuit superficiem terræ: veni, et maledic ei, si quomodo possim pugnans abigere eum.
Original
Hebrew
English
‘Behold, a people has come out of Egypt, and they cover the face of the land. Now come and put a curse on them for me. Perhaps I may be able to fight against them and drive them away.’”
Notes
God commanded Balaam not to go with Balak's messengers.
The story of Balak and Balaam marks an important turning point in Israel’s history. It includes humor, drama, and deep teaching about God.
The story makes one main point clear. The Lord’s will must be carried out. No one could stop his plan for Israel.
Theme notes and profiles
Places
Egypt: Ancient nation; Israelites enslaved there; plagues and Exodus
Glossary
Ammon, Ammonites Balaam Balak Curse, Cursed Deuteronomy, Book of False Prophets Jannes and Jambres Moab, Moabites Moses Numbers, Book of Prophets, False Shittim (Place) Zippor
Topics
Journey of Israel Through The Desert: Return to the Plains of Moab: Balaam not Permitted to Curse Israel Prayer: Imprecatory