What number verse is Numbers 24:14 in the Bible?

Numbers 24:14 is the 4,461st verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Numbers 24:14 sits at position 4,461.

24:1324:13

Numbers 24:14

Q: What is the significance of "the latter days" (_acharit hayyamim_) in this context?

"The latter days" (*acharit hayyamim*, H319 and H3117) is a crucial prophetic term in the Old Testament, referring not merely to the distant future but to a specific, decisive period when God's ultimate purposes for Israel and the nations will be fulfilled. It often carries strong eschatological implications, pointing to the culmination of redemptive history, including the coming of the Messiah, the final destiny of nations, and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. Balaam's use of this phrase here indicates that his prophecy is not just for the immediate future but has long-term, ultimate significance in God's unfolding plan for the world, foreshadowing the events detailed in Numbers 24:17-24.

24:1524:15

Translation

King James Version

And now, behold, I go unto my people: come therefore, and I will advertise thee what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days.

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KJV (with Strong's)

And now, behold, I go ^H1980 unto my people ^H5971: come ^H3212 therefore, and I will advertise ^H3289 thee what this people ^H5971 shall do ^H6213 to thy people ^H5971 in the latter ^H319 days ^H3117.

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Complete Jewish Bible

But now that I am going back to my own people, come, I will warn you what this people will do to your people in the acharit-hayamim.

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Berean Standard Bible

Now I am going back to my people, but come, let me warn you what this people will do to your people in the days to come.”

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American Standard Version

And now, behold, I go unto my people: come, and I will advertise thee what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days.

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World English Bible Messianic

Now, behold, I go to my people. Come, I will inform you what this people shall do to your people in the latter days.”

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And nowe behold, I goe vnto my people: come, I will aduertise thee what this people shall doe to thy folke in the later dayes.

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Young's Literal Translation

and, now, lo, I am going to my people; come, I counsel thee concerning that which this people doth to thy people, in the latter end of the days.'

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Numbers 24:14 serves as Balaam's final, divinely compelled declaration to Balak, King of Moab, marking a critical juncture before his departure. Despite Balak's persistent efforts to induce a curse upon Israel, Balaam is supernaturally constrained to prophesy Israel's future ascendancy and the decisive actions they will take against Moab and other nations "in the latter days." This verse powerfully encapsulates God's unyielding sovereignty, His absolute control over human and spiritual opposition, and the certain unfolding of His redemptive purposes throughout history, transforming an intended curse into a profound prophetic warning.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Numbers 24:14 functions as a pivotal transition within the extended Balaam narrative (Numbers 22-24). It follows Balaam's four previous divinely-imposed blessings upon Israel (Numbers 23:7-10, 23:18-24, 24:3-9, 24:15-19), delivered despite Balak's desperate attempts to procure a curse. Having exhausted Balak's patience and his own capacity to resist God's will, Balaam announces his intention to return home. However, before his departure, this verse introduces an unsolicited, yet profoundly significant, final oracle. It shifts from Balaam's direct blessings to a personal warning to Balak, setting the immediate stage for the climactic fifth oracle (Numbers 24:15-24). This final prophecy elaborates on Israel's future dominance over surrounding nations, culminating in the profound Messianic prophecy of the "Star out of Jacob" and "Scepter out of Israel" in Numbers 24:17, emphasizing the inescapable nature of God's revealed plan.
Historical & Cultural Context: The historical setting places the Israelites encamped on the plains of Moab, poised to enter the land of Canaan. Balak, the Moabite king, viewed the vast Israelite multitude as an existential threat, leading him to employ Balaam, a renowned diviner from Pethor in Mesopotamia, to ritually curse them. The practice of hiring foreign seers for spiritual warfare or to secure divine favor was a common cultural norm in the ancient Near East, reflecting a belief in the efficacy of such pronouncements. Balaam's reputation as one whose blessings or curses were effective (as noted in Numbers 22:6) made him a highly sought-after, though ultimately ineffective, instrument for Balak. This backdrop underscores the dramatic clash between human fear and political maneuvering on one hand, and God's absolute sovereign control over nations and individuals on the other. The phrase "latter days" (Hebrew: acharit hayyamim) was a recognized prophetic term, pointing to a decisive future period when divine purposes would culminate, often involving significant shifts in geopolitical power and the fulfillment of covenant promises.
Key Themes: Numbers 24:14 contributes profoundly to several overarching theological themes within the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is God's Unstoppable Sovereignty, powerfully demonstrating that no human scheme, political power, or spiritual opposition can ultimately thwart His divine will for His chosen people. Balaam, a pagan diviner, becomes an unwilling mouthpiece for the Lord, underscoring the theme of Divine Revelation Beyond Human Will, highlighting that God can use anyone, even unrighteous individuals, to accomplish His purposes and declare His truth. The declaration concerning "the latter days" introduces the crucial theme of Prophetic Foresight and Eschatology, emphasizing that God's plans extend far beyond immediate circumstances into a predetermined future, culminating in the establishment of His eternal kingdom. Finally, this verse powerfully reinforces the theme of God's Faithfulness to His Covenant Promises, as He actively protects Israel and ensures their future, turning intended curses into blessings, a truth vividly reiterated in Deuteronomy 23:5 and Nehemiah 13:2.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Go (Hebrew, hâlak' / yâlak', H1980): The KJV uses "go" for Balaam's declared departure. The Hebrew roots H1980 (hâlak) and H3212 (yâlak) are closely related, both meaning "to walk" or "to go" in a wide range of applications, literally and figuratively. In this context, it signifies Balaam's physical movement to return to his own people, marking the apparent end of his contractual obligation to Balak. However, the immediate continuation of the verse reveals that his prophetic compulsion has not ceased, indicating a deeper, divine "going" or movement of revelation through him.
Advertise (Hebrew, yâʻats', H3289): The King James Version's use of "advertise" here is an archaic rendering of the Hebrew root H3289 (yâʻats). This root primarily means "to advise," "to counsel," "to deliberate," or "to warn." In this context, it signifies Balaam's intention to impart crucial, divinely revealed information to Balak—a solemn warning or disclosure rather than a mere announcement. It underscores the weighty and authoritative nature of the message he is about to deliver, indicating that he is compelled to give counsel concerning future events.
Latter days (Hebrew, ʼachărîyth_ _yôwm', H319): This is a highly significant technical prophetic term, acharit hayyamim (H319 ʼachărîyth meaning "the last or end, hence, the future; also posterity," and H3117 yôwm meaning "a day" or "a space of time"). Used throughout the Old Testament (e.g., Genesis 49:1, Deuteronomy 4:30), it does not simply mean "the future" in a general sense, but rather a specific, decisive, and often eschatological period when God's ultimate purposes for Israel and the world will be fulfilled. It points to the culmination of redemptive history, often associated with the coming of the Messiah, the final destiny of nations, and the full establishment of God's kingdom.

Verse Breakdown

"And now, behold, I go unto my people": Balaam formally announces his intention to depart from Balak and return to his own land. This statement marks the apparent conclusion of his contractual obligation to Balak, signifying that the series of forced oracles is seemingly over. It is a declaration of his personal will and desire to end the uncomfortable situation. However, the subsequent clause immediately reveals that his prophetic compulsion has not yet ceased.
"come [therefore, and] I will advertise thee": Despite his declared departure, Balaam feels an undeniable, divine compulsion to deliver one final, unsolicited message. The archaic "advertise" here means "I will inform you" or "I will warn you." It indicates that Balaam is about to impart a critical, divinely-revealed piece of information, a solemn disclosure that Balak needs to hear, regardless of his desire. This highlights the irresistible nature of God's prophetic word.
"what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days": This is the core of Balaam's final, compelled prophecy. He, who was hired to curse Israel, now prophesies their future dominance and the actions they will take against Moab and other surrounding nations. The phrase "in the latter days" elevates this warning beyond immediate events, placing it within the broader sweep of God's sovereign plan for history, pointing to a climactic future period when Israel's destiny and God's redemptive purposes will be fully realized, often with eschatological implications.

Literary Devices

The passage is rich with Irony, as Balaam, hired by Balak specifically to curse Israel, is repeatedly compelled by God to bless them and then, in this verse, to deliver a solemn warning to their enemy about Israel's future triumph. This dramatic reversal highlights the futility of human opposition against divine will. The phrase "latter days" functions as powerful Foreshadowing, pointing to significant future events in Israel's history, including their conquests, their establishment as a kingdom, and ultimately, the coming of the Messiah. The entire narrative surrounding Balaam, and especially this verse, serves as a direct Prophecy, a divinely inspired declaration of future events, delivered through an unwilling and morally compromised prophet, thereby emphasizing God's absolute control over the message and its messenger, regardless of the instrument's character.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Numbers 24:14 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering sovereignty and the immutability of His divine plan. Despite human machinations and spiritual opposition, God's purposes for His people cannot be thwarted. Balaam, a pagan diviner, becomes an unwitting instrument in God's hands, demonstrating that God can use anyone, even those outside His covenant, to declare His truth. This verse sets the stage for the profound Messianic prophecy that immediately follows, underscoring that God's ultimate plan for Israel culminates in the coming of a King who will establish an eternal kingdom. It assures believers that God is actively working in history, guiding events towards His predetermined end, and that His word, once spoken, is utterly reliable and will come to pass, providing a bedrock of confidence in His faithfulness.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Numbers 24:14 offers profound comfort and challenge for believers today. It calls us to rest in the unshakeable truth of God's sovereignty, recognizing that no human scheme, political power, or spiritual adversary can ultimately thwart His perfect will. In a world often characterized by chaos, uncertainty, and seemingly insurmountable opposition, this verse reminds us that God is actively orchestrating history, moving all things toward His predetermined glorious conclusion. It encourages us to trust His foreknowledge and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem dire or when the forces arrayed against us appear overwhelming. Our confidence is not in human strength, strategic planning, or political alliances, but in the God who compels even His enemies to declare His truth and fulfill His purposes. This should inspire us to live with bold assurance, knowing that our God reigns, His kingdom will ultimately prevail, and His promises are eternally secure.

Questions for Reflection

How does Balaam's compelled prophecy affirm God's ultimate control over all circumstances, even those orchestrated by evil intent?
What comfort can we draw from the understanding that God's plans for His people are unthwartable, extending even into "the latter days"?
In what ways might we be tempted to doubt God's sovereignty when faced with opposition, and how does this passage encourage steadfast faith?

FAQ

What does "advertise" mean in Numbers 24:14?

Answer: In the King James Version, "advertise" is an archaic term that can be misleading to modern readers. In this context, it does not mean to promote or publicize. Instead, the Hebrew word (H3289, yâʻats) means "to inform," "to warn," "to advise," or "to give notice." Balaam is not placing an advertisement; rather, he is delivering a solemn, divinely-revealed warning or disclosure to Balak about Israel's future actions and destiny. It signifies a crucial, compelled piece of information that Balak is forced to hear, emphasizing the authoritative and weighty nature of the prophecy.

What is the significance of "the latter days" (acharit hayyamim) in this context?

Answer: "The latter days" (acharit hayyamim, H319 and H3117) is a crucial prophetic term in the Old Testament, referring not merely to the distant future but to a specific, decisive period when God's ultimate purposes for Israel and the nations will be fulfilled. It often carries strong eschatological implications, pointing to the culmination of redemptive history, including the coming of the Messiah, the final destiny of nations, and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. Balaam's use of this phrase here indicates that his prophecy is not just for the immediate future but has long-term, ultimate significance in God's unfolding plan for the world, foreshadowing the events detailed in Numbers 24:17-24.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Numbers 24:14, with its declaration of Israel's future dominance "in the latter days," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Balaam's unwilling prophecy, particularly the subsequent vision of the "Star out of Jacob" and the "Scepter out of Israel" (Numbers 24:17), is a direct Messianic prediction. Jesus is the true Star who arose from Jacob, signifying His divine origin and kingly authority, as recognized by the Magi who followed His star in Matthew 2:2 and affirmed by Christ Himself as "the bright and morning star" in Revelation 22:16. He is the Scepter, the rightful King who establishes God's eternal kingdom, fulfilling all prophecies concerning Israel's ultimate triumph and God's universal reign. His first coming inaugurated these "latter days" or "last days" (Hebrews 1:1-2, Acts 2:17), bringing salvation and judgment, and His second coming will bring them to glorious consummation. Thus, Balaam's compelled "advertisement" of Israel's future is, in essence, a divinely orchestrated foreshadowing of the coming of the Messiah, Jesus, through whom God's redemptive plan for all humanity is perfectly realized and His kingdom eternally established.

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Commentary on Numbers 24 verses 10–14

10 ¶ And Balak's anger was kindled against Balaam, and he smote his hands together: and Balak said unto Balaam, I called thee to curse mine enemies, and, behold, thou hast altogether blessed them these three times.

11 Therefore now flee thou to thy place: I thought to promote thee unto great honour; but, lo, the LORD hath kept thee back from honour.

12 And Balaam said unto Balak, Spake I not also to thy messengers which thou sentest unto me, saying,

13 If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the commandment of the LORD, to do either good or bad of mine own mind; but what the LORD saith, that will I speak?

14 And now, behold, I go unto my people: come therefore, and I will advertise thee what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days.

We have here the conclusion of this vain attempt to curse Israel, and the total abandonment of it. 1. Balak made the worst of it. He broke out into a rage against Balaam (Num 24:10), expressed both in words and gesture the highest degree of vexation at the disappointment; he smote his hands together, for indignation, to see all his measures thus broken, and his project baffled. He charged Balaam with putting upon him the basest affront and cheat imaginable: "I called thee to curse my enemies, and thou hast shown thyself in league with them, and in their interests, for thou hast blessed them these three times, though, by appointing the altars to be built and sacrifices to be offered, thou madest be believe thou wouldest certainly curse them." Hereupon he forbade him his presence, expelled him his country, upbraided him with the preferments he had designed to bestow upon him, but now would not (Num 24:11): "The Lord hath kept thee back from honour. See what thou gettest by pleasing the Lord, instead of pleasing me; thou has hindered thy preferment by it." Thus those who are any way losers by their duty are commonly upbraided with it, as fools, for preferring it before their interest in the world. Whereas, if Balaam had been voluntary and sincere in his adherence to the word of the Lord, though he lost the honour Balak designed him by it, God would have made that loss up to him abundantly to his advantage. 2. Balaam made the best if it. (1.) He endeavours to excuse the disappointment. And a very good excuse he has for it, that God restrained him from saying what he would have said, and constrained him to say what he would not; and that this was what Balak ought not to be displeased at, not only because he could not help it, but because he had told Balak before what he must depend upon, Num 24:12, Num 24:13. Balak could not say that he had cheated him, since he had given him fair notice of the check he found himself under. (2.) He endeavours to atone for it, Num 24:14. Though he cannot do what Balak would have him do, yet, [1.] He will gratify his curiosity with some predictions concerning the nations about him. It is natural to us to be pleased with prophecy, and with this he hopes to pacify the angry prince. [2.] He will satisfy him with an assurance that, whatever this formidable people should do to his people, it should not be till the latter days; so that he, for his part, needed not to fear any mischief or molestation from them; the vision was for a great while to come, but in his days there should be peace. [3.] He will put him into a method of doing Israel a mischief without the ceremonies of enchantment and execration. This seems to be implied in that word: I will advertise thee; for it properly signifies, I will counsel thee. What the counsel was is not set down here, because it was given privately, but we are told afterwards what it was, Num 31:16. He counselled him to entice the Israelites to idolatry, Rev 2:14. Since he could not have leave from God to curse them, he puts him in a way of getting help from the devil to tempt them. Flectere si nequeo superos, Acheronta movebo - If I cannot move heaven, I will solicit hell.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 10–14. Public domain.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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Cross-References

Micah 6:5
O my people, remember now what Balak king of Moab consulted, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him from Shittim unto Gilgal; that ye may know the righteousness of the LORD.
Genesis 49:1
¶ And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days.
Revelation 2:14
But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.
Daniel 2:28
But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days. Thy dream, and the visions of thy head upon thy bed, are these;
2 Timothy 3:1
¶ This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
Acts 2:17
And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
Hosea 3:5
Afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek the LORD their God, and David their king; and shall fear the LORD and his goodness in the latter days.