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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Numbers 24:1–9. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The blessing itself which Balaam here pronounces upon Israel is much the same with the two we had in the foregoing chapter; but the introduction to it is different.
I.The method of proceeding here varies much in several instances.
1.Balaam laid aside the enchantments which he had hitherto depended on, used no spells, or charms, or magic arts, finding they did him no service; it was to no purpose to deal with the devil for a curse, when it was plain that God was determined immovably to bless, Num 24:1. Sooner or later God will convince men of their folly in seeking after lying vanities, which cannot profit. To what purpose should he seek for enchantment? He knew that God was out of the reach of them.
2.He did not now retire into a solitary place as before, but set his face directly towards the wilderness where Israel lay encamped; and, since there is no remedy, but they must be blessed, he will design nothing else, but will submit by compulsion.
3.Now the Spirit of God came upon him, that is, the Spirit of prophecy, as upon Saul to prevent him from taking David, Sa1 19:23. He spoke not his own sense, but the language of the Spirit that came upon him.
4.He used a different preface now from what he had used before (Num 24:3, Num 24:4), much like that of David (Sa2 23:1-3), yet savouring very much (as some think) of pride and vain-glory, taking all the praise of this prophecy to himself, and magnifying himself as one of the cabinet-council of heaven. Two things he boasts of: - (1.) The favour God did him in making known himself to him. He heard the words of God, and saw the vision of the Almighty. God himself had met him and spoken to him (Num 23:16), and with this he was greatly puffed up. Paul speaks with humility of his visions and revelations (Co2 12:1), but Balaam speaks of his with pride. (2.) His own power to receive and bear those revelations. He fell into a trance indeed, as other prophets did, but he had his eyes open. This he mentions twice; but the words in the original are not the same. The man whose eyes were shut, some think it may be read so (Num 24:3-9), but now having his eyes open, Num 24:4. When he attempted to curse Israel, he owns, he was in a mistake, but now he began to see his error, and yet still he remained blinded by covetousness and ambition, those foolish and hurtful lusts. Note, [1.] Those that oppose God and his people will sooner or later be made to see themselves wretchedly deceived. [2.] Many have their eyes open that have not their hearts open, are enlightened, but not sanctified; and that knowledge which puffs men up with pride will but serve to light them to hell, whither many go with their eyes open.
II.Yet the blessing is for substance the same with those before. Several things he admires in Israel: -
1.Their beauty (Num 24:5): How goodly are thy tents, O Jacob! Though they dwelt not in stately palaces, but in coarse and homely tents, and these, no doubt, sadly weather-beaten, yet Balaam sees a beauty in those tents, because of their admirable order, according to their tribes, Num 24:2. Nothing recommends religion more to the good opinion of those that look upon it at a distance than the unity and harmony of its professors, Psa 133:1. The amiableness of this people, and the great reputation they should gain among their neighbours, are compared (Num 24:6) to the beauty and sweetness of fruitful valleys and fine gardens, flourishing trees and fragrant spices. Note, Those whose eyes are open see the saints on the earth to be excellent ones, and their delight is accordingly in them. The righteous, doubtless, is more excellent than his neighbour. They are trees which the Lord has planted; that is their excellency. The branches of righteousness are the planting of the Lord. See Hos 14:5-7.
2.Their fruitfulness and increase. This may be intended by those similitudes (Num 24:6) of the valleys, gardens, and trees, as well as by those expressions (Num 24:7), He shall pour the water out of his buckets; that is, God shall water them with his blessing like rain from heaven, and then his seed shall be in many waters. Compare Hos 2:23, I will sow her unto me in the earth. And waters are in scripture put for peoples, and multitudes, and nations. This has been fulfilled in the wonderful increase of that nation and their vast multitude even in their dispersion.
3.Their honour and advancement. As the multitude of the people is the honour of the prince, so the magnificence of the prince is the honour of the people; Balaam therefore foretells that their king shall be higher than Agag. Agag, it is probable, was the most potent monarch in those parts; Balaam knew of none more considerable than he was; he rose above the rest of his neighbours. But Balaam foretells that Israel's chief commander, who, after Moses, was Joshua, should be more great and honourable than ever Agag was, and make a far better figure in history. Saul, their first king, triumphed over Agag, though, it is said, he came delicately.
4.Their power and victory, Num 24:8.
(1.)He looks back upon what they had done, or rather what had been done for them: God brought them forth out of Egypt; this he had spoken of before, Num 23:22. The wonders that attended their deliverance out of Egypt contributed more to their honour, and the terror of their adversaries, than any thing else, Jos 2:10. He that brought them out of Egypt will not fail to bring them into Canaan, for, as for God, his work is perfect.
(2.)He looks down upon their present strength. Israel hath, as it were, the strength of a unicorn, of which creature it is said (Job 39:9, Job 39:10), Will he be willing to serve thee, or abide by thy crib? Canst thou bind him with his band in the furrow? "No, Israel is too powerful to be checked or held in by my curses or thy armies." (3.) He looks forward to their future conquests: He shall eat up the nations his enemies; that is, "he shall not only destroy and devour them as easily and irresistibly as a lion does his prey, but he shall himself be strengthened, and fattened, and enriched, by their spoils."
5.Their courage and security: He lay down as a lion, as a great lion, Num 24:9. Now he does so in the plains of Moab, and asks no leave of the king of Moab, nor is he in fear of him; shortly will he do so in Canaan. When he has torn his prey, he will take his repose, quiet from the fear of evil, and bid defiance to all his neighbours; for who shall stir up a sleeping lion? It is observed of lions (as the learned bishop Patrick takes notice here) that they do not retire into places of shelter to sleep, but lie down any where, knowing that none dares meddle with them: thus secure were Israel in Canaan, chiefly in the days of David and Solomon; and thus is the righteous bold as a lion (Pro 28:1), not to assault others, but to repose themselves, because God maketh them to dwell in safety, Psa 4:8.
6.Their interest, and influence upon their neighbours. Their friends, and those in alliance with them, were happy: Blessed is he that blesseth thee; those that do them any kindness will certainly fare the better for it. But their enemies, and those in arms against them, were certainly miserable: Cursed is he that curseth thee; those that do them any injury do it at their peril; for God takes what is done to them, whether good or evil, as done to himself. Thus he confirms the blessing of Abraham (Gen 12:3), and speaks as if therefore he did at this time bless Israel, and not curse them, because he desired to share in the blessing of Israel's friends and dreaded the curse on Israel's enemies.
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Summary
Numbers 24:4 introduces Balaam's third prophetic oracle by vividly describing the extraordinary, divinely-imposed state in which he received this profound revelation. The verse emphasizes the direct, overwhelming, and authoritative nature of Balaam's encounter with the divine, highlighting that his subsequent words are not of human origin or divination but a direct impartation from God, despite his initial intentions to curse Israel. This unique physical and spiritual posture underscores the irresistible power and clarity of God's communication.
Context
Literary Context
Numbers 24:4 is strategically positioned within the larger narrative of Balak's attempts to coerce Balaam into cursing Israel (Numbers 22-24). Following two previous failed oracles where Balaam, compelled by God, blessed Israel instead of cursing them, this verse serves as a crucial preamble to Balaam's third and most expansive prophecy. Each successive oracle reveals more about Israel's glorious future and the eventual downfall of its adversaries. By detailing Balaam's unique physical and spiritual state before he delivers this significant prophecy, the verse emphatically underscores the divine origin and authoritative nature of the words he is about to speak. It functions as a validation, ensuring the audience understands that the prophecy originates from God alone, transcending Balaam's personal will or pagan divination practices. This immediate context sets the stage for a dramatic reversal of expectations, where a hired curse-monger becomes an unwilling mouthpiece for divine blessing.
Historical & Cultural Context
Balaam was a renowned diviner from Pethor, a city in Mesopotamia, a region where consulting oracles and practicing various forms of divination were deeply embedded in religious and social life. Balak, the king of Moab, driven by fear of the numerous Israelites encamped on his border, sought to employ Balaam's widely recognized spiritual power to curse them, reflecting the pervasive ancient Near Eastern belief in the tangible efficacy of curses and blessings pronounced by powerful spiritual figures. However, the Numbers narrative consistently subverts these regional expectations, powerfully demonstrating the absolute sovereignty of the God of Israel over all other powers, including foreign diviners and their practices. The geographical setting on the plains of Moab is highly significant, placing Israel on the verge of entering the Promised Land and making Balak's desperate fear and God's protective intervention pivotal to the unfolding covenant history. This context highlights the clash between pagan spiritual practices and the unique, authoritative revelation of Yahweh.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. It profoundly illustrates the theme of Divine Inspiration and Revelation, asserting that Balaam's words are not his own but a direct, irresistible impartation from God. This emphasizes the divine origin and authoritative nature of true prophecy, contrasting sharply with human attempts at divination, and aligning with the principles of authentic prophetic speech found in passages like Deuteronomy 18:18-22. The paradoxical description of "falling [into a trance], but having his eyes open" introduces the theme of Paradoxical Prophetic Insight. This suggests a unique spiritual receptivity that transcends normal physical perception, where divine truth is unveiled even in a state of physical prostration or incapacitation, indicating a profound encounter with the divine. Most profoundly, the entire Balaam narrative, including this verse, underscores God's Absolute Sovereignty. Even a non-Israelite prophet, hired with the specific intent to curse, is compelled by God to speak His truth, dramatically demonstrating God's ultimate control over human intentions and events, ensuring His purposes for His people are fulfilled regardless of opposition, aligning with the truth found in Proverbs 19:21.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word literally means "to fall" or "to be prostrate." In the context of divine encounter, it implies a physical posture of being overwhelmed, humbled, or brought low by the intense presence and majesty of God's revelation. It suggests an involuntary, profound physical reaction, indicating a state of awe, submission, and perhaps a loss of physical control, rather than necessarily an unconscious trance. This "falling" signifies the irresistible power of the divine encounter.
Meaning "to denude," "to uncover," or "to reveal." When applied to "eyes," as in this verse, it signifies that Balaam's spiritual perception was not veiled or obscured but was clear and fully receptive. Despite any physical prostration, his spiritual vision was unveiled, allowing him to perceive divine truths and visions that were hidden from ordinary human sight. This highlights a state of heightened spiritual awareness and direct revelation, distinguishing it from ordinary human perception or ecstatic states.
This is one of the ancient and powerful names for God, often translated as "the Almighty" or "the All-Sufficient One." Its use here emphasizes God's power, might, and self-sufficiency. Balaam "saw the vision of the Almighty," implying that the source of his revelation was not a lesser deity or a mere spirit, but the supreme, all-powerful God of Israel. This designation lends immense authority, weight, and undeniable truth to the vision and the subsequent prophecy Balaam is compelled to utter.
Verse Breakdown
"He hath said, which heard the words of God"
This initial clause immediately identifies the speaker as Balaam, but swiftly qualifies his words as originating from a divine source. The phrase "heard the words of God" (אִמְרֵי־אֵל, imrei-el) signifies a direct, auditory reception of divine communication. This establishes that Balaam is not speaking his own thoughts, divinations, or curses, but is merely a conduit for God's message, underscoring the authoritative, non-human, and undeniable origin of the prophecy he is about to deliver.
"which saw the vision of the Almighty"
This second clause complements the first, indicating that Balaam's revelation was not only auditory but also profoundly visual. He "saw the vision" (מַחֲזֵה, machazeh), implying a direct, experiential encounter with divine reality. The specific designation "the Almighty" (שַׁדַּי, Shadday) emphasizes the supreme power, sovereignty, and authority of the source of this vision, reinforcing the idea that this is a revelation from the one true, sovereign God of Israel, not a lesser spirit or human insight.
"falling [into a trance], but having his eyes open"
This final, pivotal clause describes Balaam's paradoxical physical and spiritual state during the revelation. "Falling" (נֹפֵל, nofel) suggests a physical prostration, perhaps overwhelmed by the divine presence, or a posture of humility and submission before God's majesty. The crucial counterpoint, "but having his eyes open" (וּגְלוּי עֵינָיִם, u'gluy einayim), signifies that despite any physical incapacitation or being in a trance-like state, his spiritual perception was fully active, clear, and unveiled. This paradox highlights that divine revelation can transcend normal human faculties, granting profound spiritual insight and clear understanding even in a physically compromised state, distinguishing true prophecy from mere human speculation or ecstatic frenzy.
Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Numbers 24:4 is Paradox. The description of Balaam as "falling [into a trance], but having his eyes open" presents a striking contradiction that encapsulates the supernatural and extraordinary nature of his prophetic experience. He is physically overwhelmed and prostrate ("falling"), yet simultaneously possesses acute spiritual clarity and perception ("having his eyes open"). This paradox powerfully emphasizes that divine revelation operates beyond normal human understanding and physical limitations, granting a unique, unveiled insight into spiritual realities. Additionally, there is a strong element of Emphasis through the dual description of Balaam's reception of revelation: he both "heard the words of God" and "saw the vision of the Almighty." This repetition underscores the comprehensive, undeniable, and multi-sensory nature of the divine communication, validating the authenticity and supreme authority of the prophecy he is about to deliver. The verse also functions as Foreshadowing, setting the stage for the profound and unexpected prophecies that follow, which detail Israel's future glory and the downfall of its enemies, all from the mouth of someone initially hired to oppose them.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Numbers 24:4 profoundly illustrates God's sovereign control over revelation and His ability to use any instrument, even an unwilling one, to accomplish His purposes. It underscores that true prophecy originates solely from God, not from human will, divination, or mystical practices. Balaam's unique state—physically overwhelmed yet spiritually perceptive—serves as a powerful testament to the overwhelming and irresistible nature of encountering the divine. This encounter transforms him from a diviner seeking to curse into an involuntary prophet compelled to bless, demonstrating God's absolute power to turn human intentions on their head for the sake of His covenant people. The verse also highlights the stark distinction between human attempts at divination and genuine divine inspiration, asserting that God's word is pure, authoritative, and irresistible, ultimately serving His redemptive plan.
Reflection and Application
Numbers 24:4 invites us to consider the profound nature of divine revelation and our posture before it. Balaam's experience, though unique in its context, offers a powerful metaphor for our own spiritual receptivity. We are called to approach God's Word with profound humility, allowing ourselves to be "overwhelmed" by its truth, even if it challenges our preconceived notions, comfortable perspectives, or personal desires. Just as Balaam's physical prostration was coupled with spiritual clarity, we are reminded that true insight and discernment often come when we humble ourselves before God, acknowledging His sovereignty and wisdom above our own. This verse reassures us of God's unfailing purpose for His people; no human scheme, opposition, or even the most potent curses can ultimately thwart His divine will. It encourages us to cultivate a spiritual discernment that allows us to see God's hand at work even in confusing or seemingly contradictory circumstances, trusting that His plans will prevail and His truth will be unveiled to those who seek Him with open spiritual eyes and a humble heart.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "falling [into a trance]" mean in this context?
The King James Version's "falling [into a trance]" translates the Hebrew word nofel (נֹפֵל), which literally means "falling" or "prostrate." The bracketed "into a trance" is an interpretive addition by the translators to convey the spiritual nature of the experience. In context, it suggests a physical posture of being overwhelmed, humbled, or brought low by the intense presence and power of God's revelation. It is less about an unconscious state and more about an involuntary physical reaction to the divine, indicating awe, submission, and perhaps a temporary loss of physical control in the face of God's majesty. This state sets him apart from ordinary diviners and underscores the divine, rather than human, origin of his prophecy, demonstrating that God's power is so immense it can physically affect those who encounter it.
Why is Balaam, a non-Israelite diviner, receiving divine revelation from the God of Israel?
Balaam's reception of divine revelation, despite being a non-Israelite diviner, powerfully demonstrates God's absolute sovereignty and His ability to use anyone, even those outside His covenant people, to accomplish His purposes. God is not limited by human categories, geographical boundaries, or religious affiliations. In this narrative, God uses Balaam to bless Israel and to reveal His plans, directly countering Balak's intentions to curse them. This highlights that God's will cannot be thwarted by human schemes or even by the practices of foreign diviners. It emphasizes that God controls all things and can compel even an unwilling agent to speak His truth, as seen in Numbers 23:8. God's revelation is sovereignly dispensed, not earned or manipulated.
What is the significance of "having his eyes open" while "falling"?
The phrase "having his eyes open" (Hebrew: u'gluy einayim, וּגְלוּי עֵינָיִם) is highly significant because it creates a powerful paradox with the preceding "falling." While "falling" suggests physical prostration, being overwhelmed, or a trance-like state, "eyes open" indicates profound spiritual clarity and perception. It means that despite any physical incapacitation or being brought low, Balaam's spiritual vision was clear and unveiled. He was able to perceive divine truths and visions that were hidden from others. This emphasizes that his insights were not a result of human divination, ecstatic frenzy, or mere speculation, but a direct, clear, and authoritative revelation from God, granting him a unique spiritual discernment that transcended normal physical sight. This mirrors the idea of spiritual eyes being opened to truth, as described in Ephesians 1:18.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Numbers 24:4, with its striking description of Balaam as one who "heard the words of God" and "saw the vision of the Almighty," points forward to the ultimate Prophet and Revealer of God: Jesus Christ. While Balaam was a reluctant and flawed prophet, compelled by God's Spirit to speak, Jesus is the very Word of God incarnate, the perfect and willing embodiment of divine revelation. He is the one who truly "saw the vision of the Almighty" because He is eternally one with the Father, having come from the Father's side to make Him known (John 1:18). Jesus perfectly fulfills the prophetic role, not merely speaking God's words, but being God's Word made flesh, dwelling among us, full of grace and truth (John 1:14). His earthly ministry, culminating in His humble descent, suffering, and death on the cross, can be seen as the ultimate "falling" – a profound act of self-emptying and prostration before the Father's will (Philippians 2:6-8). Yet, through this "falling," His "eyes" – His divine purpose, glory, and redemptive power – were fully "open" and revealed, bringing light and salvation to the world. Through Christ, the veiled truths of God are unveiled, and humanity gains true spiritual sight, enabling us to see God's ultimate plan of redemption, a plan infinitely greater than any blessing Balaam could pronounce, culminating in the ultimate sacrifice of the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.