Numbers 23:26

KJV

But Balaam answered and said unto Balak, Told not I thee, saying, All that the LORD speaketh, that I must do?

KJV (with Strong's)

But Balaam {H1109} answered {H6030} and said {H559} unto Balak {H1111}, Told {H1696} not I thee, saying {H559}, All that the LORD {H3068} speaketh {H1696}, that I must do {H6213}?

Complete Jewish Bible

However, Bil'am answered Balak, "Didn't I warn you that I must do everything ADONAI says?"

Berean Standard Bible

But Balaam replied, “Did I not tell you that whatever the LORD says, I must do?”

American Standard Version

But Balaam answered and said unto Balak, Told not I thee, saying, All that Jehovah speaketh, that I must do?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 23:26 captures a pivotal moment in the narrative of Balaam and Balak, where the pagan prophet Balaam, despite his personal desires and Balak's persistent demands, is compelled by divine authority to reiterate his inability to speak anything other than what the LORD has commanded. This verse powerfully underscores God's absolute sovereignty, demonstrating that His will cannot be manipulated or thwarted by human schemes, even through the agency of a renowned diviner. It highlights the unyielding nature of God's word and His ultimate control over all circumstances and individuals, ensuring His purposes for Israel remain inviolable.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is Balaam's third explicit declaration to Balak, following two previous attempts by the Moabite king to secure a curse against Israel. Balak, desperate to prevent the advancing Israelites from entering his territory, had hired Balaam, a prophet known for his potent blessings and curses. However, in [Numbers 23:1-12](/numbers/23-1-12 "Numbers 23:1-12 - Balaam's First Prophecy"), Balaam delivered a blessing rather than a curse, much to Balak's dismay. Balak then moved Balaam to a new vantage point, hoping a change of scenery might alter the divine message, but again, Balaam pronounced a blessing ([Numbers 23:13-24](/numbers/23-13-24 "Numbers 23:13-24 - Balaam's Second Prophecy")). In [Numbers 23:25](/numbers/23-25 "Numbers 23:25 - Balak's Frustration"), Balak, utterly frustrated, exclaims, "Neither curse them at all, nor bless them at all!" Numbers 23:26 is Balaam's direct and firm response to this outburst, reminding Balak of his consistent warning: he is merely a mouthpiece for the LORD. This repeated declaration serves to emphasize the irresistible nature of God's will, which transcends Balaam's own inclinations and Balak's political machinations.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the role of seers, diviners, and prophets was highly significant, with kings often employing them to gain divine favor or curse enemies. Balak's hiring of Balaam fits squarely within this cultural practice. Balaam himself was not an Israelite, but a diviner from Pethor, near the Euphrates ([Numbers 22:5](/numbers/22-5 "Numbers 22:5 - Balaam's Origin")), indicating his reputation extended beyond Israelite borders. The Moabites, like many surrounding nations, feared the burgeoning power of Israel, especially after their victories over the Amorites. The belief in the efficacy of curses and blessings was deeply ingrained, making Balak's desperation to hire Balaam understandable. However, the narrative subverts this expectation by demonstrating that Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel, is not merely one deity among many, but the supreme God who can even control the utterances of a pagan prophet, turning intended harm into blessing, thereby asserting His unique power and protecting His chosen people.

* **Key Themes:** Numbers 23:26 powerfully reinforces several core themes within the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is **Divine Sovereignty**, highlighting God's absolute control over all creation, including human speech and intentions. Despite Balak's significant political power and Balaam's initial willingness to profit, God's will unequivocally prevails, turning intended curses into blessings, as later affirmed in [Deuteronomy 23:5](/deuteronomy/23-5 "Deuteronomy 23:5 - God Turned the Curse into a Blessing") and [Nehemiah 13:2](/nehemiah/13-2 "Nehemiah 13:2 - God Turned the Curse into a Blessing"). This demonstrates that no human scheme, sorcery, or opposition can thwart God's plan for His people Israel. Another key theme is **Balaam's Limited Agency**, where Balaam, despite his prophetic gifts, is shown to be merely an instrument in God's hands, compelled to speak only what he is commanded. This contrasts human desires (Balak's wish to curse, Balaam's desire for reward) with divine decree. The verse also underscores **The Unthwartable Nature of God's Promises**, particularly His covenant with Abraham and his descendants. God's word, once spoken, cannot be undone or altered, ensuring the security and destiny of Israel against all opposition.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** The use of the divine covenant name, Yahweh, is highly significant. It is not a generic term for "god," but the personal, revealed name of the God of Israel, who made a covenant with Abraham and delivered His people from Egypt. Balaam, a non-Israelite diviner, is compelled to acknowledge and speak the name of this specific God, emphasizing Yahweh's supremacy not only over Israel but over all nations and even other spiritual powers. It underscores that the power behind Balaam's words is not some generic divine force, but the one true God who is actively involved in the destiny of His people.
* **speaketh (Hebrew, _dâbar'_):** This verb, from a primitive root, denotes a decisive, authoritative utterance. It implies not merely casual conversation but a declaration, a command, or a pronouncement. When applied to the LORD, it signifies that God's word is potent, effective, and carries inherent authority. Balaam is not interpreting vague signs or omens; he is relaying a direct, specific, and unalterable message from God. The active voice emphasizes that it is the LORD who is initiating and controlling the communication.
* **do (Hebrew, _ʻâsâh'_):** This verb, from a primitive root, means "to do," "to make," "to accomplish," or "to perform" in the broadest sense. In this context, it signifies Balaam's compelled execution or performance of the divine command. It's not a matter of choice or negotiation for Balaam; he is bound to utter precisely what the LORD has spoken. This highlights the irresistible nature of God's will and the fact that His word is not just spoken but also brought to fruition. Balaam's role is not to innovate or deviate, but simply to enact the divine decree.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But Balaam answered and said unto Balak":** This opening clause sets the scene for a direct confrontation and response. Balaam is not speaking to himself or to his servants, but directly addressing the king who has hired him and is now expressing extreme frustration. The "But" indicates a counter-statement, a firm rebuttal to Balak's desperate plea in the previous verse ([Numbers 23:25](/numbers/23-25 "Numbers 23:25 - Balak's Frustration")). It signals Balaam's unwavering stance, despite the pressure.
* **"Told not I thee, saying":** This rhetorical question serves as a powerful reminder, almost an "I told you so." Balaam is recalling his previous, consistent declarations to Balak, specifically in [Numbers 22:38](/numbers/22-38 "Numbers 22:38 - Balaam's Initial Declaration") and [Numbers 23:12](/numbers/23-12 "Numbers 23:12 - Balaam's First Prophecy to Balak"). He is emphasizing that his current predicament (delivering blessings instead of curses) is not a surprise or a change of heart, but a direct consequence of the limitation he had repeatedly communicated. This highlights Balak's stubborn refusal to accept the truth.
* **"All that the LORD speaketh":** This is the core of Balaam's defense and the theological heart of the verse. The phrase "All that" (כֹּל אֲשֶׁר, _kol asher_) signifies totality and exclusivity. It means *everything* the LORD speaks, and *only* what the LORD speaks. The emphasis is on the divine origin and complete content of the message. The specific mention of "the LORD" (YHWH) underscores the unique authority of the God of Israel, whom Balaam is compelled to obey, even as a non-Israelite prophet.
* **"that I must do?":** The concluding rhetorical question reinforces the absolute compulsion Balaam is under. The verb "do" (עָשָׂה, _asah_) here means to perform, to utter, or to execute. Balaam is not merely allowed to speak God's word; he is divinely constrained to do so. This highlights his lack of agency in altering the message, despite his personal desires for wealth or favor. It is a declaration of divine control over human will, particularly in the realm of prophetic utterance.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices. **Repetition** is a prominent feature, as Balaam reiterates his inability to speak anything but God's word multiple times throughout the narrative (e.g., [Numbers 22:38](/numbers/22-38 "Numbers 22:38 - Balaam's Initial Declaration"), [Numbers 23:12](/numbers/23-12 "Numbers 23:12 - Balaam's First Prophecy to Balak"), and here in Numbers 23:26). This repetition serves to emphasize the unyielding nature of God's control and Balaam's consistent, albeit forced, acknowledgment of it. There is also profound **Irony** at play: a pagan prophet, hired to curse God's people, is instead compelled by God Himself to bless them. This subverts the expectations of both Balak and the ancient Near Eastern audience, demonstrating God's supreme power over all spiritual forces and human intentions. The narrative also employs **Contrast**, setting Balak's desperate human will and desire to manipulate divine power against the immovable, sovereign will of the LORD. Finally, this episode serves as a form of **Foreshadowing**, illustrating God's ultimate victory over all opposition and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, a theme that resonates throughout biblical history.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 23:26 is a profound declaration of divine sovereignty, asserting that God's word is not merely a suggestion but an irresistible force that shapes reality and fulfills His purposes. It teaches us that God's plans for His people are unassailable, impervious to the machinations of human enemies or even the compromised intentions of those who might seek to profit from opposing Him. This verse underscores the truth that God is utterly faithful to His covenant promises, and no power, whether political, magical, or military, can thwart His will. It provides immense comfort and assurance, reminding believers that their ultimate security rests not in human strength or wisdom, but in the omnipotent and unwavering control of the LORD.

* [Proverbs 19:21](/proverbs/19-21 "Proverbs 19:21 - Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.")
* [Isaiah 46:10](/isaiah/46-10 "Isaiah 46:10 - Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,'")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God works all things for good for those who love Him.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 23:26 offers a powerful anchor for faith in a world often characterized by uncertainty and opposition. It reminds us that even when powerful forces seem arrayed against God's purposes or against us personally, His ultimate will cannot be thwarted. We are called to trust in His sovereign hand, knowing that He can turn even the most malicious intentions into instruments for His glory and our good. This truth should instill courage when facing adversity, peace when confronted with the unknown, and humility in recognizing that our plans must always yield to His. It challenges us to align our desires and actions with God's revealed will, understanding that true freedom and blessing come from submitting to the One who controls all things.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Balaam's compelled declaration of God's sovereignty encourage you when facing seemingly insurmountable opposition?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to surrender control and trust more fully in "All that the LORD speaketh"?**
* **How does this passage affirm God's faithfulness to His promises, even when His people are unaware of the spiritual battles being fought on their behalf?**
* **What does it mean for your daily walk to live in light of God's unthwartable will?**

### FAQ
**Why did God use Balaam, a pagan prophet, to deliver His message?**

Answer: God's use of Balaam, a non-Israelite diviner, powerfully demonstrates His absolute sovereignty and His ability to work through anyone, even those outside His covenant people, to accomplish His purposes. It underscores that God is not limited by human categories or religious affiliations. By compelling a renowned pagan prophet to bless Israel against his own will and the will of the Moabite king, God unequivocally asserts His unique power and authority over all other deities and human schemes. This also serves as a public declaration to surrounding nations that the God of Israel is supreme, as seen in the later accounts of Israel's history where the nations acknowledge Yahweh's power (e.g., [Joshua 2:9-11](/joshua/2-9-11 "Joshua 2:9-11 - Rahab's Confession of God's Power")).

**Does Balaam's compelled speech mean that humans have no free will?**

Answer: While Balaam is clearly compelled by God in this instance to speak only what the LORD commands, it does not negate human free will entirely. The narrative shows Balaam's initial willingness to go with Balak for gain ([Numbers 22:7](/numbers/22-7 "Numbers 22:7 - Balaam's Initial Temptation")), his later attempts to advise Balak on how to corrupt Israel ([Numbers 31:16](/numbers/31-16 "Numbers 31:16 - Balaam's Deceptive Counsel")), and his ultimate demise. God's sovereignty often works *through* human choices, even sinful ones, or *overrides* them for specific, divine purposes, especially when His covenant promises are at stake. In Numbers 23:26, God supernaturally intervenes to ensure His word is spoken, not to eliminate Balaam's free will in general, but to control a specific prophetic utterance critical to Israel's protection. This demonstrates that while humans possess free will, God's ultimate will is supreme and cannot be thwarted.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The compelled declaration of Balaam in Numbers 23:26, "All that the LORD speaketh, that I must do," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the very Word of God made flesh ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), the one through whom God's will is perfectly and completely accomplished. Unlike Balaam, who was a reluctant and ultimately compromised prophet, Jesus perfectly embodied and executed the will of the Father, declaring, "For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me" ([John 6:38](/john/6-38 "John 6:38 - Jesus Does the Father's Will")). Every word Jesus spoke, every miracle He performed, and every act of obedience, culminating in His sacrificial death and resurrection, was the direct fulfillment of "all that the LORD speaketh." Through Christ, God's promises to bless His people, first seen in the Abrahamic covenant and foreshadowed in Balaam's blessings, are made "Yes" and "Amen" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are Yes in Christ")). He is the ultimate Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), turning the curse of sin into the blessing of eternal life, triumphing over all principalities and powers ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). Thus, the unthwartable will of God, so powerfully displayed in Balaam's compelled prophecy, finds its perfect and redemptive expression in the person and mission of Jesus, the Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 5:29

Then Peter and the [other] apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

Numbers 22:18

And Balaam answered and said unto the servants of Balak, If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the word of the LORD my God, to do less or more.

2 Chronicles 18:13

And Micaiah said, [As] the LORD liveth, even what my God saith, that will I speak.

Acts 4:19

But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.

Acts 4:20

For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.

Numbers 22:38

And Balaam said unto Balak, Lo, I am come unto thee: have I now any power at all to say any thing? the word that God putteth in my mouth, that shall I speak.

1 Kings 22:14

And Micaiah said, [As] the LORD liveth, what the LORD saith unto me, that will I speak.