Keraia
Numbers 22

Numbers 22:40

The Angel and Balaam’s Donkey · Numbers 22:22–41
Read Numbers 22

Translations

Modern
Balak sacrificed cattle and sheep, and he gave portions to Balaam and the princes who were with him.
Traditional
And Balak offered oxen and sheep, and sent to Balaam, and to the princes that were with him.
Literal
And Balak offered oxen and sheep, and he sent some to Balaam and to the princes who were with him.
Latin
Cumque occidisset Balac boves et oves, misit ad Balaam, et principes qui cum eo erant, munera.

Original

Hebrew
English
Balak sacrificed cattle and sheep, and he gave portions to Balaam and the princes who were with him.

Notes

Numbers 22:39–41

  • Balak tried to get Balaam to curse Israel. First, he used a ceremonial offering and meal to summon the gods and Balaam. Then, he took Balaam to view the Israelite camp.

  • Kiriath-huzoth is an unknown location.

Numbers 22:21–41

This passage clearly uses humor to make fun of Balaam, the professional diviner. The story shows that his spiritual understanding and obedience to God were less than those of his own donkey.

Numbers 22:2–24:25

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

Balaam Moab and Ammon

People

Balaam: A prophet hired to curse Israel but blessed them instead Balak: King of Moab who hired Balaam to curse Israel

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)

Topics

Idolatry: Objects of, Worshipped with Sacrifices Journey of Israel Through The Desert: Return to the Plains of Moab: Balaam not Permitted to Curse Israel