Numbers 24:19

KJV

Out of Jacob shall come he that shall have dominion, and shall destroy him that remaineth of the city.

KJV (with Strong's)

Out of Jacob {H3290} shall come he that shall have dominion {H7287}, and shall destroy {H6} him that remaineth {H8300} of the city {H5892}.

Complete Jewish Bible

From Ya'akov will come someone who will rule, and he will destroy what is left of the city."

Berean Standard Bible

A ruler will come from Jacob and destroy the survivors of the city.”

American Standard Version

And out of Jacob shall one have dominion, And shall destroy the remnant from the city.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 24:19 stands as the powerful culmination of Balaam's fourth and final oracle, a divinely inspired prophecy that, contrary to Balak's malicious intent, pronounces a profound blessing and foretells the glorious future of Israel. This verse specifically declares the emergence of a mighty ruler from Jacob who will exercise supreme, conquering authority and decisively destroy the remaining adversaries, pointing beyond immediate historical fulfillments to an ultimate, messianic victory and the establishment of an undisputed, eternal dominion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 24:19 concludes Balaam's fourth oracle (Numbers 24:15-19), which serves as the climactic point in his encounters with Balak, King of Moab. Throughout chapters 22-24, Balaam, though initially hired to curse Israel, is repeatedly compelled by Yahweh to utter blessings and prophecies concerning Israel's future greatness and divine favor. This particular oracle is often referred to as the "Star Prophecy" due to its opening declaration in [Numbers 24:17](/numbers/24-17 "Numbers 24:17 - The Star and Scepter Prophecy"), which speaks of a "Star out of Jacob" and a "Sceptre shall rise out of Israel." Verse 19 builds directly upon this vivid imagery, specifying the nature of this coming figure's dominion and the comprehensive extent of his conquest, transitioning from a general declaration of kingship to a concrete statement of victorious rule over all enemies. The preceding verses have already established Israel's unique blessedness and divine protection, making the promise of a conquering ruler a natural and necessary progression of their divinely ordained destiny.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for Balaam's prophecies is the plains of Moab, where the vast Israelite encampment is poised on the verge of entering the Promised Land. Balak, the Moabite king, gripped by fear of this formidable nation, seeks to neutralize them through a curse delivered by Balaam, a renowned diviner from Mesopotamia. This historical period was characterized by constant tribal conflicts, the rise and fall of regional powers, and the common practice of city-states vying for territorial control and influence through military conquest. Prophetic utterances and the ability to bless or curse were highly valued, believed to have tangible effects on the outcomes of conflicts and the destiny of nations. Balaam's prophecies, delivered within this ancient Near Eastern context, serve as a powerful demonstration of Yahweh's absolute sovereignty over all nations, rulers, and even pagan diviners, revealing His unalterable plans for Israel despite human opposition. The specific mention of "city" and "dominion" reflects the prevailing geopolitical realities of the time, where control over fortified urban centers signified ultimate power.
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 24:19 contributes significantly to several overarching theological and narrative themes within the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. The theme of **Divine Sovereignty** is paramount, as God repeatedly overrides Balaam's intentions and Balak's schemes, demonstrating His absolute control over events and individuals to accomplish His purposes for Israel. The theme of **Messianic Kingship** is powerfully introduced and developed, with the "Star" and "Sceptre" pointing to a future, ultimate ruler from Israel, a concept that finds its roots in earlier prophecies such as Jacob's blessing of Judah in [Genesis 49:10](/genesis/49-10 "Genesis 49:10 - Jacob's Prophecy of Judah's Scepter"). This verse also highlights the theme of **Ultimate Victory**, promising a decisive and complete triumph over adversaries, which is a recurring motif in God's covenant relationship with Israel, assuring them of divine protection and ultimate success against their enemies. The "destruction of him that remaineth of the city" foreshadows the complete subjugation of all opposition to God's chosen king and people, ensuring their security and the fulfillment of God's promises.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Dominion (Hebrew, _râdâh'_):** This word (H7287) is a primitive root signifying "to tread down," "to subjugate," or "to have mastery over." It denotes an authoritative, often forceful, exercise of rule. While it can imply a gentle shepherding (e.g., in Ezekiel 34:4), in the context of conquest, as here, it implies an active, conquering rule that establishes supreme and unchallengeable authority over others. It suggests a powerful and irresistible force that will bring enemies into complete submission.
* **Destroy (Hebrew, _ʼâbad'_):** This verb (H6) means "to wander away," "to lose oneself," and by implication, "to perish" or "to be utterly destroyed." When used in the active voice, as in this verse, it implies causing utter destruction or bringing something to a complete end. It denotes a comprehensive and decisive victory, leaving no remnants of the enemy's power, presence, or ability to resist. This is not a partial defeat but a thorough eradication of the opposing force.
* **City (Hebrew, _ʻîyr'_):** While literally meaning "city" (H5892), a place guarded by waking or a watch, in this prophetic context, it functions as a metonymy. It stands for the inhabitants, the power structure, and the collective resistance of an enemy stronghold or, more broadly, the adversaries of Israel. The phrase "him that remaineth of the city" likely refers to the last vestiges of resistance or the final, unyielding strongholds of Israel's enemies, particularly those associated with Moab and Edom, against whom King David would later wage war. It signifies the complete subjugation of all opposing forces, ensuring no one is left to challenge the dominion of the coming ruler.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Out of Jacob shall come he that shall have dominion":** This initial clause declares the divinely ordained origin of the powerful ruler: he will emerge from the nation of Israel, represented by its patriarch, Jacob. The phrase "he that shall have dominion" points to a specific individual, a kingly figure, who will wield supreme and conquering authority. This is a clear prophetic statement, indicating that Israel's future includes a divinely appointed leader who will not merely govern but actively exercise powerful, irresistible rule. It builds directly upon the "Star" and "Sceptre" imagery of [Numbers 24:17](/numbers/24-17 "Numbers 24:17 - The Star and Scepter Prophecy"), establishing both the source and the nature of this promised kingship.
* **"and shall destroy him that remaineth of the city":** This second clause describes the decisive action and comprehensive outcome of this ruler's dominion. He will utterly destroy the lingering remnants of opposition, particularly those associated with the "city" (metonymically referring to the collective adversaries, likely the Moabites or Edomites, as seen in historical fulfillments). The use of "destroy" signifies a complete and final victory, leaving no survivors or lingering power to challenge his authority. This highlights the comprehensive nature of his triumph and the establishment of an undisputed, secure reign, ensuring the peace and ascendancy of God's people.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 24:19 employs several significant literary devices that amplify its prophetic power and theological depth. The most prominent device is **Prophecy** itself, as Balaam's words are a divinely inspired foretelling of future events, specifically the rise of a powerful, conquering ruler from Israel. This prophecy functions as profound **Messianic Foreshadowing**, pointing beyond any immediate historical fulfillment to the ultimate, universal reign of the Messiah. The phrase "him that remaineth of the city" utilizes **Metonymy**, where "city" stands in for its inhabitants and their collective power or resistance, signifying the complete and utter subjugation of all adversaries. The language itself is highly **Symbolic**, with "dominion" and "destroy" conveying not just physical conquest but the establishment of an ultimate, unchallengeable authority that eradicates all opposition. The entire oracle, delivered by a pagan diviner who is compelled to bless, is a powerful example of **Divine Irony**, showcasing God's absolute sovereignty over human will and plans.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 24:19 is a profound statement on God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people and His ultimate plan for a sovereign, victorious ruler. The prophecy underscores the theme of divine election and the absolute certainty of God's promises, even when spoken through an unlikely, non-Israelite prophet like Balaam. It establishes the trajectory of Israel's future as one marked by a powerful, divinely appointed king who will secure their peace and prosperity through decisive victory over all enemies. The "he that shall have dominion" points to a figure of ultimate authority, whose rule is not merely earthly but carries a divine mandate for the complete subjugation of all opposition. This vision of a conquering king provides deep assurance of God's ultimate triumph over all forces hostile to His kingdom and His people, demonstrating His faithfulness to His covenant.

* [Genesis 49:10](/genesis/49-10 "Genesis 49:10 - Jacob's Prophecy of Judah's Scepter")
* [2 Samuel 8:14](/2_samuel/8-14 "2 Samuel 8:14 - David's Conquest of Edom")
* [Revelation 19:15](/revelation/19-15 "Revelation 19:15 - Christ's Rule with a Rod of Iron")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 24:19 offers a powerful anchor for faith, reminding us of God's absolute sovereignty and the unfailing certainty of His prophetic word. In a world often characterized by chaos, conflict, and the apparent triumph of evil, this verse reassures us that a divine ruler, ultimately Christ Himself, has and will exercise ultimate dominion. It calls us to trust in God's overarching plan, knowing that His kingdom will ultimately prevail and all opposition will be brought to nothing. For believers, this means living with profound confidence in Christ's present authority and future triumph, engaging in spiritual warfare with the assurance of His victory, and patiently enduring trials, knowing that our King has already secured the ultimate conquest over sin, death, and every enemy. It encourages us to align our lives with His dominion, participating in His redemptive work and eagerly anticipating the full manifestation of His glorious, undisputed reign.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the certainty of God's prophetic word, even when delivered through an unwilling prophet like Balaam, strengthen your faith in God's plans for your life and the world?**
* **In what practical ways can we, as believers, live under the "dominion" of Christ in our daily lives, reflecting His authority and values in our choices and actions?**
* **How does the promise of Christ's ultimate victory over all "remaining" opposition encourage you when facing personal struggles, spiritual battles, or societal evils that seem overwhelming?**

### FAQ
**Who is "him that remaineth of the city" in this prophecy?**

Answer: While the immediate historical context might point to Israel's regional adversaries like the Moabites or Edomites (as partially seen in King David's conquests in [2 Samuel 8](/2_samuel/8 "2 Samuel 8 - David's Victories")), the phrase "him that remaineth of the city" is best understood as a broader, comprehensive reference. It signifies any lingering, unyielding opposition to the divinely appointed ruler and God's people. In its ultimate messianic fulfillment, it encompasses all enemies of God's kingdom, including sin, death, and spiritual adversaries, who will be utterly subdued by the Messiah. It speaks to a complete and final eradication of all challenges to His dominion, leaving no remnant of resistance.

**How does this prophecy relate to King David?**

Answer: King David's reign saw a significant, though partial, fulfillment of Numbers 24:19. David, a king from Jacob (Israel) and a descendant of Judah, indeed exercised great dominion, conquering surrounding nations like Moab and Edom, and establishing a powerful kingdom. [2 Samuel 8:14](/2_samuel/8-14 "2 Samuel 8:14 - David's Conquest of Edom") explicitly states, "And he put garrisons in Edom; throughout all Edom put he garrisons, and all they of Edom became David's servants." This historical fulfillment demonstrates the immediate relevance and initial application of Balaam's prophecy. However, the sweeping language of "destroy him that remaineth" and the broader scope of the "Star" and "Sceptre" imagery point to a greater, ultimate fulfillment beyond any earthly king, foreshadowing the perfect, universal, and eternal dominion of the Messiah.

**Why is Balaam, a non-Israelite, delivering this prophecy?**

Answer: Balaam's role as a non-Israelite prophet delivering divine oracles about Israel's blessing and a future king powerfully underscores the theme of God's absolute sovereignty. It demonstrates that God is not confined to Israel or its prophets but can use anyone, even those hired to oppose His people, to accomplish His purposes and reveal His plans. Balaam's repeated inability to curse Israel, despite his desire and Balak's intense pressure, highlights God's protective hand over His chosen nation and His ultimate control over all events and human wills. It also serves to validate the prophecy as coming from an external, unbiased source, making its divine origin and undeniable truth even more evident to both Israel and the surrounding nations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 24:19 finds its ultimate, most glorious, and complete fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "he that shall have dominion" is none other than the [Son of David](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ"), the true and eternal King who emerged "out of Jacob" according to the flesh. While King David provided a historical precedent of a mighty ruler from Israel, his dominion was limited, temporary, and imperfect. Jesus, however, possesses all authority in heaven and on earth, as He Himself declared after His resurrection in [Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - The Great Commission and Christ's Authority"). He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), and through His sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection, He has already triumphed over the principalities and powers, making a public spectacle of them ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Spiritual Powers")). The promise to "destroy him that remaineth of the city" points to Christ's comprehensive victory over sin, death, and all spiritual enemies. He is the one who, through His death, has "destroyed him who has the power of death, that is, the devil" ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Christ's Conquest of Death")). His future return will bring the final and complete subjugation of all remaining opposition, as He will rule the nations with a rod of iron ([Revelation 19:15](/revelation/19-15 "Revelation 19:15 - Christ's Return and Rule")) and every knee will ultimately bow to Him, acknowledging His supreme Lordship ([Philippians 2:10](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). Thus, Numbers 24:19 stands as a powerful Old Testament witness to the universal, eternal, and undisputed kingship of Jesus 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

Matthew 28:18

And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

Micah 5:2

But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, [though] thou be little among the thousands of Judah, [yet] out of thee shall he come forth unto me [that is] to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth [have been] from of old, from everlasting.

Genesis 49:10

The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him [shall] the gathering of the people [be].

Ephesians 1:20

Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set [him] at his own right hand in the heavenly [places],

Ephesians 1:22

And hath put all [things] under his feet, and gave him [to be] the head over all [things] to the church,

Psalms 2:1

¶ Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?

Psalms 2:12

Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish [from] the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed [are] all they that put their trust in him.