TRV
Translation
King James Version
And Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession for his enemies; and Israel shall do valiantly.
KJV (with Strong's)
And Edom H123 shall be a possession H3424, Seir H8165 also shall be a possession H3424 for his enemies H341; and Israel H3478 shall do H6213 valiantly H2428.
Complete Jewish Bible
His enemies will be his possessions -Edom and Se'ir, possessions. Isra'el will do valiantly,
Berean Standard Bible
Edom will become a possession, as will Seir, his enemy; but Israel will perform with valor.
American Standard Version
And Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession, who were his enemies; While Israel doeth valiantly.
World English Bible Messianic
Edom shall be a possession. Seir, his enemies, also shall be a possession, while Israel does valiantly.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Edom shalbe possessed, and Seir shall be a possession to their enemies: but Israel shall do valiantly.
Young's Literal Translation
And Edom hath been a possession, And Seir hath been a possession, for its enemies, And Israel is doing valiantly;
Study This Verse
Commentary on Numbers 24 verses 15–25
15 ¶ And he took up his parable, and said, Balaam the son of Beor hath said, and the man whose eyes are open hath said:
16 He hath said, which heard the words of God, and knew the knowledge of the most High, which saw the vision of the Almighty, falling into a trance, but having his eyes open:
17 I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth.
18 And Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession for his enemies; and Israel shall do valiantly.
19 Out of Jacob shall come he that shall have dominion, and shall destroy him that remaineth of the city.
20 And when he looked on Amalek, he took up his parable, and said, Amalek was the first of the nations; but his latter end shall be that he perish for ever.
21 And he looked on the Kenites, and took up his parable, and said, Strong is thy dwellingplace, and thou puttest thy nest in a rock.
22 Nevertheless the Kenite shall be wasted, until Asshur shall carry thee away captive.
23 And he took up his parable, and said, Alas, who shall live when God doeth this!
24 And ships shall come from the coast of Chittim, and shall afflict Asshur, and shall afflict Eber, and he also shall perish for ever.
25 And Balaam rose up, and went and returned to his place: and Balak also went his way.
I. II. Main points1. 2. Sub-points
The office of prophets was both to bless and to prophesy in the name of the Lord. Balaam, as a prophet, per force had blessed Israel; here he foretels future events.
I. His preface is much the same as that, Num 24:3, Num 24:4. He personates a true prophet admirably well, God permitting and directing him to do so, because, whatever he was, the prophecy itself was a true prophecy. He boasts, 1. That his eyes are open (Num 24:15), for prophets were in old time called seers (Sa1 9:9), because they must speak what they had seen, and therefore, before they opened their lips, it was necessary that they should have their eyes open. 2. That he has heard the words of God, which many do that do not heed them, nor hear God in them. 3. That he knew the knowledge of the Most High; this is added here. A man may be full of the knowledge of God and yet utterly destitute of the grace of God, may receive the truth in the light of it and yet be a stranger to the love of it. 4. That he saw the vision of the Almighty, but not so as to be changed into the same image. He calls God the Most High, and the Almighty; no man could speak more honourably of him, nor seem to put a greater value upon his acquaintance with him, and yet he had no true fear of him, love to him, or faith in him, so far may a man go towards heaven, and yet come short.
II. Here is his prophecy concerning him that should be the crown and glory of his people Israel, who is, 1. David in the type, who not now, not quickly, but in process of time, should smite the corners of Moab. (Num 24:17), and take possession of Mount Seir, and under whom the forces of Israel should do valiantly, Num 24:18. This was fulfilled when David smote Moab, and measured them with a line, so that the Moabites became David' servants, Sa2 8:2. And at the same time the Edomites likewise were brought into obedience to Israel, Num 24:14. But, 2. Our Lord Jesus, the promised Messiah, is chiefly pointed at in the antitype, and of him it is an illustrious prophecy; it was the will of God that notice should thus be given of his coming, a great while before, not only to the people of the Jews, but to other nations, because his gospel and kingdom were to extend themselves so far beyond the borders of the land of Israel. It is here foretold, (1.) That while: "I shall see him, but not now; I do see him in vision, but at a very great distance, through the interposing space of 1500 years at least." Or understand it thus: - Balaam, a wicked man, shall see Christ, but shall not see him nigh, nor see him as Job, who saw him as his Redeemer, and saw him for himself, Job 19:25, Job 19:27. When he comes in the clouds every eye shall see him, but many will see him (as the rich man in hell saw Abraham) afar off. (2.) That he shall come out of Jacob, and Israel, as a star and a sceptre, the former denoting his glory and lustre, and the bright and morning star, the latter his power and authority; it is he that shall have dominion. Perhaps this prophecy of Balaam (one of the children of the east) concerning a star that should arise out of Jacob, as the indication of a sceptre arising in Israel, being preserved by a tradition of that country, gave occasion to the wise men, who were of the east too, upon the sight of an unusual star over the land of Judea, to enquire for him that was born king of the Jews, Mat 2:2. (3.) That his kingdom shall be universal, and victorious over all opposition, which was typified by David's victories over Moab and Edom. But the Messiah shall destroy, or, as some read it, shall rule over, all the children of Seth. (Num 24:17), that is, all the children of men, who descend from Seth, the son of Adam, the descendants of the rest of Adam's sons being cut off by the deluge. Christ shall be king, not only of Jacob and Israel, but of all the world; so that all the children of Seth shall be either governed by his golden sceptre or dashed in pieces by his iron rod. He shall set up a universal rule, authority, and power, of his own, and shall put down all opposing rule, Co1 15:24. He shall unwall all the children of Seth; so some read it. He shall take down all their defences and carnal confidences, so that they shall either admit his government or lie open to his judgments. (4.) That his Israel shall do valiantly; the subjects of Christ, animated by his might, shall maintain a spiritual was with the powers of darkness, and be more than conquerors. The people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits, Dan 11:32.
III. Here is his prophecy concerning the Amalekites and Kenites, part of whose country, it is probable, he had now in view. 1. The Amalekites were now the chief of the nations (Num 24:20), therefore Agag was spoken of (Num 24:7) as an eminent prince, and they were the first that engaged Israel when they came out of Egypt; but the time will come when that nation, as great as it looks now, will be totally ruined and rooted out: His latter end shall be that he perish for ever. Here Balaam confirms that doom of Amalek which Moses had read (Exo 17:14, Exo 17:16), where God had sworn that he would have perpetual war with Amalek. Note, Those whom God is at war with will certainly perish for ever; for when God judges he will overcome. 2. The Kenites were now the securest of the nations; their situation was such as that nature was their engineer, and had strongly fortified them: "Thou puttest thy nest (like the eagle) in a rock, Num 24:21. Thou thinkest thyself safe, and yet the Kenites shall be wasted (Num 24:22) and gradually brought to decay, till they be carried away captive by the Assyrians," which was done at the captivity of the ten tribes. Note, Bodies politic, like natural bodies, though of the strongest constitutions, will gradually decay, and come to ruin at last; even a nest in a rock will be no perpetual security.
IV. Here is a prophecy that looks as far forward as the Greeks and Romans, for theirs is supposed to be meant by the coast of Chittim, v. 24.
1.The introduction to this parable; this article of his prophecy is very observable (v. 23): Alas! who shall live when God doeth this? Here he acknowledges all the revolutions of states and kingdoms to be the Lord's doing: God doeth this; whoever are the instruments, he is the supreme director. But he speaks mournfully concerning them, and has a very melancholy prospect of these events: Who shall live? Either, (1.) These events are so distant, and so far off to come, that it is hard to say who shall live till they come; but, whoever shall live to see them, there will be amazing turns. Or, (2.) They will be so dismal, and make such desolations, that scarcely any will escape or be left alive; who shall live when death rides in triumph? Rev 6:8. Those that live then will be as brands plucked out of the fire, and will have their lives given them as a prey. God fit us for the worst of times!
2.The prophecy itself is observable. Both Greece and Italy lie much upon the sea, and therefore their armies were sent forth mostly in ships. Now he seems here to foretell, (2.) That the forces of the Grecians should humble and bring down the Assyrians, who were united with the Persians, which was fulfilled when the eastern country was overcome, or overrun rather, by Alexander. (2.) That theirs and the Roman forces should afflict the Hebrews, or Jews, who were called the children of Eber; this was fulfilled in part when the Grecian empire was oppressive to the Jewish nation, but chiefly when the Roman empire ruined it and put a period to it. But, (3.) That Chittim, that is, the Roman empire, in which the Grecian was at length swallowed up, should itself perish for ever, when the stone cut out of the mountain without hands shall consume all these kingdoms, and particularly the feet of iron and clay, Dan 2:34. Thus (says Dr. Lightfoot) Balaam, instead of cursing the church, curses Amalek the first, and Rome the last, enemy of the church. And so let all thy enemies perish, O Lord!
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 15–25. 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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SUMMARY
Numbers 24:18 presents a powerful prophetic declaration delivered by Balaam, under divine compulsion, foretelling Israel's future ascendancy and definitive triumph over its historical adversaries, specifically Edom and the region of Seir. This verse underscores God's unwavering sovereignty, demonstrating His ability to transform intended curses into blessings and to guarantee the fulfillment of His covenant promises for His chosen people, empowering them to achieve dominion and act with divinely-granted strength and valor.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Numbers 24:18 employs several impactful literary devices that enhance its prophetic force. Foremost is Prophecy, as the entire statement is a divinely inspired declaration of future events, revealing God's sovereign plan for Israel's ascendancy and the downfall of its adversaries. There is clear Parallelism in the phrasing "Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession," where the second clause reiterates and intensifies the meaning of the first. This synonymous parallelism emphasizes the complete and certain subjugation of Edom, with Seir serving as a synonymous identifier for Edom's territory, reinforcing the inevitability of the prophecy. Furthermore, an implicit Contrast is present between Balak's fervent desire for Balaam to curse Israel and God's turning that very intention into a blessing and a prophecy of Israel's triumph. This highlights God's ultimate control over human intentions and His unwavering commitment to His covenant people, demonstrating His ability to work all things for His purposes.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 24:18 powerfully reinforces the theological truth of God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, even when His people are surrounded by formidable enemies. It demonstrates that God's plan for Israel's dominion and blessing is immutable and unstoppable, transcending human opposition and political maneuvering. This divine sovereignty is a cornerstone of biblical theology, assuring believers that God's purposes will ultimately prevail. The historical fulfillment of this prophecy, particularly during the reign of King David, serves as a tangible testament to God's word being true and effective, providing a concrete example of divine faithfulness.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 24:18 offers enduring lessons for believers today, reminding us of God's unwavering faithfulness and His empowering presence in our lives. Just as God's prophecy for Israel's triumph was fulfilled, we can trust in His promises for our own lives and for His church. His purposes will stand, regardless of the opposition we face, whether it be spiritual strongholds, personal struggles, or societal challenges. This verse assures us that God empowers His people to accomplish His will; when we are called to a task, He provides the strength and courage to "do valiantly," not relying on our own limited might but on His divine enablement. In a world often filled with adversity, this passage provides immense hope: even when surrounded by those who wish us harm, God can turn curses into blessings and ensure His people's ultimate victory. It is a powerful reminder that our strength comes from Him, and our ultimate triumph is secured by His sovereign hand, inviting us to live courageously in His power.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Was this prophecy fulfilled historically?
Answer: Yes, this prophecy saw significant historical fulfillment, particularly during the reign of King David. 2 Samuel 8:14 explicitly states, "And he put garrisons in Edom; throughout all Edom put he garrisons, and all they of Edom became David's servants." This marked a clear and decisive subjugation of Edom by Israel, aligning perfectly with Balaam's declaration that Edom would become a "possession." While conflicts with Edom continued intermittently through Israel's history, David's conquest represented a major fulfillment of this prophetic word, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His promises and establishing Israel's dominion.
What is the significance of Edom and Seir in this prophecy?
Answer: Edom represents the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, and their territory in the mountainous region of Seir, as detailed in Genesis 36:8. Their relationship with Israel was often marked by deep-seated animosity and rivalry, stemming from the original sibling conflict between Jacob and Esau. In biblical prophecy, Edom often symbolizes the archetypal enemy of God's people, representing those who oppose God's chosen nation and His divine plan. Therefore, their subjugation in this prophecy is not merely a geopolitical prediction but a powerful theological statement about God's protection and vindication of Israel, ensuring the defeat of all who stand against His divine purposes and highlighting the ultimate triumph of God's covenant people.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Numbers 24:18 speaks of Israel's earthly dominion and military prowess, its ultimate and most profound fulfillment is found in Jesus Christ. The "Star out of Jacob" and "Scepter out of Israel" prophesied in Numbers 24:17 finds its ultimate realization in Jesus, the true King of Kings, who has been given all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). The "valiance" of Israel, empowered by God to conquer earthly enemies, foreshadows the spiritual victory achieved by Christ on the cross, where He triumphed over all spiritual enemies—sin, death, and the devil (Colossians 2:15). Through Christ, believers, who are the spiritual Israel, are empowered to "do valiantly" in spiritual warfare, inheriting a kingdom that cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28) and participating in His ultimate dominion over all things (Ephesians 1:20-23). The subjugation of Edom, a historical enemy of God's people, points forward to the final and complete defeat of all opposition under the feet of the true Davidic King, Jesus Christ, who must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet (1 Corinthians 15:25).