Numbers 24:2

KJV

And Balaam lifted up his eyes, and he saw Israel abiding [in his tents] according to their tribes; and the spirit of God came upon him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Balaam {H1109} lifted up {H5375} his eyes {H5869}, and he saw {H7200} Israel {H3478} abiding {H7931} in his tents according to their tribes {H7626}; and the spirit {H7307} of God {H430} came upon him.

Complete Jewish Bible

Bil'am raised his eyes and saw Isra'el encamped tribe by tribe. Then the Spirit of God came upon him,

Berean Standard Bible

When Balaam looked up and saw Israel encamped tribe by tribe, the Spirit of God came upon him,

American Standard Version

And Balaam lifted up his eyes, and he saw Israel dwelling according to their tribes; and the Spirit of God came upon him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 24:2 marks a profound turning point in the narrative of Balaam, the diviner enlisted by Balak, King of Moab, to curse the nation of Israel. This verse describes Balaam's direct observation of the Israelite encampment, followed by the immediate and powerful descent of the Spirit of God upon him. This divine intervention transforms Balaam from a pagan diviner seeking omens into an unwilling, yet divinely compelled, mouthpiece for God's prophetic declarations, setting the stage for his most significant and unhindered blessing upon Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 24:2 immediately follows Balaam's second failed attempt to curse Israel in Numbers 23. In both previous instances, Balak had led Balaam to specific vantage points, and Balaam had engaged in his customary divination practices, only for God to supernaturally override his intentions, causing him to utter blessings instead of curses (e.g., [Numbers 23:11](/numbers/23-11 "Numbers 23:11 - Balak's Frustration")). The pivotal shift in Numbers 24:1 is Balaam's realization that "it pleased the LORD to bless Israel." Consequently, he no longer goes "as at other times, to seek for enchantments," but instead turns his face toward the wilderness. This verse, Numbers 24:2, then describes the direct visual input ("lifted up his eyes, and he saw Israel") and the subsequent divine empowerment ("the spirit of God came upon him"), signaling a profound departure from his previous methods and a direct, unmediated prophetic encounter. This sets the stage for the powerful and extensive prophecies that follow in Numbers 24, which are characterized by their directness and clarity, devoid of Balaam's usual pagan rituals.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The narrative unfolds during Israel's wilderness wanderings, specifically as they approach the plains of Moab, poised to enter the promised land. Moab, along with Midian, felt threatened by the large Israelite presence (see [Numbers 22:3](/numbers/22-3 "Numbers 22:3 - Moab's Fear of Israel")). In the ancient Near East, it was common for kings to employ diviners or seers to curse their enemies, believing such curses held real power and could influence the outcome of battles or national fortunes. Balaam, from Pethor in Mesopotamia, was renowned for his divinatory abilities, believed to be effective in both blessing and cursing (as attested by Balak in [Numbers 22:6](/numbers/22-6 "Numbers 22:6 - Balak's Request to Balaam")). The Israelite encampment itself, described as "abiding in his tents according to their tribes," reflects the highly organized and divinely ordained structure outlined in [Numbers 2:1-34](/numbers/2 "Numbers 2 - The Arrangement of the Tribes"), with each tribe having its designated place around the tabernacle. This orderly arrangement was not merely a logistical marvel but a visible sign of God's presence and covenant relationship with His people, a stark contrast to the chaotic and superstitious world of pagan divination.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's absolute control over all circumstances and individuals, even those hostile to His purposes. Despite Balak's desperate attempts and Balaam's initial willingness to curse, God repeatedly turns the curses into blessings, asserting His ultimate authority over human will and pagan practices (as seen throughout [Numbers 22-24](/numbers/22 "Numbers 22 - Balaam's Journey")). Secondly, the phrase "the spirit of God came upon him" highlights the theme of **Divine Empowerment for Prophecy**. This is a supernatural anointing, distinct from Balaam's usual methods, emphasizing that true prophecy originates solely from God, not from human manipulation or pagan rituals. This divine intervention transforms Balaam, albeit temporarily, into an instrument of God's revelation, showcasing God's ability to use anyone to accomplish His will, even those outside His covenant community. Thirdly, the sight of "Israel abiding in his tents according to their tribes" reinforces the theme of **God's Unchanging Blessing and Covenant Faithfulness to Israel**. The orderly and distinct encampment symbolizes God's presence, protection, and the unique identity of His chosen people. Even when surrounded by enemies and facing attempts to thwart their progress, Israel remains under God's steadfast care and blessing, demonstrating that His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are irrevocable (compare [Romans 11:29](/romans/11-29 "Romans 11:29 - God's Irrevocable Gifts")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **lifted up his eyes (Hebrew, _nasa' 'eynayim'_):** This phrase signifies more than a casual glance; it implies an intentional, focused observation. Balaam deliberately directed his gaze towards the Israelite encampment. This act of "lifting up his eyes" is crucial because it precedes and sets the stage for the divine revelation. Unlike his previous attempts where he sought omens, here his vision is directed by God, focusing on the visible manifestation of God's order and presence among Israel.
* **abiding (Hebrew, _shokhen'_):** Derived from the root *shakan*, meaning "to dwell" or "to tabernacle," this word carries significant theological weight. It describes Israel's settled, orderly dwelling in their tents. The term is deeply connected to the concept of God's dwelling (Shekinah) among His people in the tabernacle. Thus, Israel "abiding in his tents" is not just a description of their physical arrangement but subtly hints at God's presence "tabernacling" among them, making their encampment a visible sign of His covenant faithfulness and protective presence.
* **the spirit of God came upon him (Hebrew, _ruach Elohim hayetah 'alav'_):** This is a powerful and definitive statement of divine intervention. *Ruach* can mean "wind," "breath," or "spirit," but in this context, combined with *Elohim* (God), it unequivocally refers to the divine Spirit. The phrase "came upon him" indicates a sudden, overwhelming, and supernatural anointing, distinct from Balaam's usual methods of divination. This is not Balaam conjuring spirits or interpreting omens; it is God's Spirit directly possessing and empowering him to speak His word, transforming him into a vessel for true prophecy, even against his own will and the will of Balak.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Balaam lifted up his eyes,"**: This opening clause establishes Balaam's direct and intentional observation. It signifies a departure from his previous reliance on external omens and divination rituals. His gaze is now fixed on the object of God's blessing, Israel, rather than on the pagan altars or sacrifices. This act of seeing is a prerequisite for the divine revelation that follows.
* **"and he saw Israel abiding in his tents according to their tribes;"**: This clause details what Balaam observed: the Israelite camp, orderly arranged by tribes. This sight was not just a military formation but a powerful visual representation of God's divine order, organization, and presence among His people. The phrase "according to their tribes" emphasizes the structured, divinely appointed arrangement of Israel, as detailed in [Numbers 2](/numbers/2 "Numbers 2 - The Arrangement of the Tribes"), underscoring their unique identity and the covenant relationship that set them apart. This orderly dwelling implicitly testifies to God's protective hand and the stability He provided.
* **"and the spirit of God came upon him."**: This final, climactic clause explains the source of Balaam's subsequent prophetic utterances. It is a direct, supernatural act of God's Spirit empowering Balaam. This is not a result of Balaam's pagan practices or his own will, but a sovereign act of God. The Spirit's coming upon him signifies that the words he is about to speak are not his own, nor are they derived from divination, but are pure, unadulterated revelation from the Almighty God of Israel, ensuring that His purposes for Israel would be declared.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 24:2 is rich with literary devices that amplify its theological significance. Central to the verse is **Divine Intervention**, explicitly stated as "the spirit of God came upon him," which serves as the direct cause for Balaam's transformation into a prophet. This creates a powerful **Contrast** between Balaam's previous attempts at pagan divination and this moment of pure, unmediated divine inspiration. The **Irony** is palpable: the very man hired to curse Israel is now divinely compelled to bless them, highlighting God's ultimate sovereignty over human intentions. The orderly arrangement of "Israel abiding in his tents according to their tribes" functions as **Symbolism**, representing God's presence, order, and covenant faithfulness within His people. This visual order stands in stark contrast to the spiritual chaos of paganism, underscoring the unique nature of Israel's relationship with Yahweh. The entire scene also serves as a **Foreshadowing** of the powerful, unhindered blessings and prophecies that Balaam is about to utter, all under the direct influence of God's Spirit.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 24:2 stands as a powerful testament to God's absolute sovereignty and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people. It demonstrates that no human scheme, no matter how cunning or powerful, can thwart the divine will. God not only frustrates Balak's intentions but actively turns the intended curse into a blessing, using an unexpected and even unwilling instrument—Balaam, a pagan diviner—to declare His purposes. This highlights God's ability to work outside conventional channels and to bend even the hearts of His adversaries to serve His ultimate plan. The descent of the Spirit of God upon Balaam underscores that true prophecy and divine revelation originate solely from God, not from human manipulation or pagan practices, distinguishing the God of Israel from the gods of the nations. The orderly sight of Israel's encampment further emphasizes God's protective presence and the security of His covenant promises, assuring that His people are secure under His watchful eye, even amidst hostile intentions.

* [Proverbs 19:21](/proverbs/19-21 "The Lord's Purpose Prevails")
* [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "God's Word Accomplishes Its Purpose")
* [Romans 11:29](/romans/11-29 "God's Irrevocable Gifts")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 24:2 offers profound reassurance and challenging insights for believers today. The primary lesson is the unassailable sovereignty of God. Just as Balak's elaborate plans and Balaam's divinatory powers were utterly powerless to alter God's purpose for Israel, so too are all human machinations and spiritual opposition ultimately futile against the will of the Almighty. This truth provides immense comfort in times of adversity, reminding us that God's plans for His people, and for our individual lives within His greater narrative, cannot be thwarted by external forces or the schemes of enemies. We are called to trust in His unfailing power and wisdom, knowing that even when we face opposition, God remains in control, capable of turning curses into blessings and using even the most unlikely instruments to achieve His purposes. This verse also challenges us to recognize the source of true spiritual power and insight; it comes from the Spirit of God, not from human cleverness or manipulation. We are invited to yield to the Spirit's leading, allowing Him to speak through us and accomplish His will, even when it means stepping outside our comfort zones or preconceived notions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the sovereignty of God displayed in this verse encourage you in the face of personal challenges or global uncertainties?**
* **In what ways might God be calling you to be an unexpected instrument for His purposes, even if it feels outside your comfort zone or usual methods?**
* **What does the orderly encampment of Israel, under God's protection, teach you about God's care for His people today?**
* **How can you better discern between genuine spiritual revelation and human-derived wisdom or manipulation in your own life and in the world around you?**

### FAQ
**Was Balaam a true prophet of God, or merely a pagan diviner?**

Answer: Balaam's identity is complex. He was primarily known as a pagan diviner, sought after for his ability to curse and bless, operating within the superstitious beliefs of the ancient Near East. However, Numbers 24:2, along with other instances in the narrative, explicitly states that "the spirit of God came upon him." This indicates that, at these specific moments, God supernaturally empowered him to speak His divine word, transforming him into a mouthpiece for true prophecy. He was not a prophet in the sense of being a faithful covenant servant of Yahweh, like Moses or Samuel, but rather an unwilling and temporary instrument through whom God chose to reveal His sovereign will. Later biblical texts, such as [2 Peter 2:15-16](/2_peter/2-15 "2 Peter 2:15-16 - Balaam's Folly") and [Jude 1:11](/jude/1-11 "Jude 1:11 - Balaam's Error"), condemn Balaam for his greed and for leading Israel into sin, demonstrating that his personal character and ultimate allegiance remained flawed despite his prophetic experiences.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 24:2, and the subsequent prophecies of Balaam, find profound Christ-centered fulfillment, revealing God's sovereign plan for redemption through His Son. The divine intervention that compelled Balaam to bless Israel, rather than curse them, powerfully foreshadows God's ultimate redemptive act in Christ, where the curse of sin is transformed into blessing for all who believe. Balaam's most famous prophecy, the "Star out of Jacob" and "Scepter out of Israel" ([Numbers 24:17](/numbers/24-17 "Numbers 24:17 - The Star and Scepter Prophecy")), is directly understood by Christian tradition as a messianic prophecy pointing to Jesus Christ, the true King and Light of the world. Just as God's Spirit came upon Balaam to declare His unchangeable purpose for Israel, the Holy Spirit eternally indwells Christ, empowering His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection. The orderly encampment of Israel, a symbol of God's presence and protection, points forward to the church, the new Israel, gathered under the headship of Christ, where God's Spirit now dwells within believers ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - The Temple of God")). Ultimately, God's unyielding faithfulness to His covenant people, demonstrated by His turning curses into blessings, culminates in Christ, who, by becoming a curse for us on the cross ([Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Galatians 3:13 - Christ Redeems Us from the Curse")), secured an eternal blessing for all humanity, fulfilling God's ancient promises and establishing His everlasting kingdom.

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

1 Samuel 19:20

And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing [as] appointed over them, the Spirit of God was upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied.

2 Chronicles 15:1

¶ And the Spirit of God came upon Azariah the son of Oded:

1 Samuel 10:10

And when they came thither to the hill, behold, a company of prophets met him; and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them.

1 Samuel 19:23

And he went thither to Naioth in Ramah: and the Spirit of God was upon him also, and he went on, and prophesied, until he came to Naioth in Ramah.

Numbers 24:5

How goodly are thy tents, O Jacob, [and] thy tabernacles, O Israel!

Numbers 23:9

For from the top of the rocks I see him, and from the hills I behold him: lo, the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations.

Numbers 23:10

Who can count the dust of Jacob, and the number of the fourth [part] of Israel? Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!