Numbers 22:16

Numbers 22:16 presents a pivotal moment in the narrative of Balaam, highlighting the escalating desperation of King Balak of Moab. After his initial attempt to hire Balaam to curse Israel was rebuffed by God's direct command (Numbers 22:12), Balak sends a second, more prestigious delegation with an even more insistent plea.

Context of Numbers 22:16

The Israelites, having recently defeated the Amorites (Numbers 21:24), were encamped on the plains of Moab. Balak, the king of Moab, was filled with dread at the sight of this numerous and victorious nation. He feared Israel would "lick up all that are round about us, as the ox licketh up the grass of the field" (Numbers 22:4). Believing in the power of curses and blessings, Balak sought out Balaam, a renowned diviner or prophet from Pethor in Mesopotamia, to use his spiritual influence against Israel. This verse marks Balak's intensified effort, sending princes "more, and more honourable than they" (Numbers 22:15), to ensure Balaam's compliance by offering greater rewards and removing any perceived obstacles.

Key Themes and Messages

• Balak's Persistent Desperation: This verse underscores Balak's profound fear and his unwavering determination to stop the Israelites. His renewed plea, "Let nothing, I pray thee, hinder thee from coming unto me," reveals a king willing to go to great lengths and offer significant inducements to achieve his objective.
• The Allure of Temptation: While not directly stated, Balak's persistence serves as a powerful temptation for Balaam. The phrase "Let nothing... hinder thee" implies an offer of immense reward or honor that Balak believes will overcome any reluctance on Balaam's part, hinting at the struggle Balaam faces between God's clear command and the potential for worldly gain. This foreshadows Balaam's eventual "error of Balaam" (2 Peter 2:15), driven by greed.
• Divine Sovereignty Amidst Human Schemes: Despite Balak's fervent efforts and the temptation presented to Balaam, the larger narrative demonstrates God's ultimate control. Even if Balaam were to come, God would ultimately prevent him from cursing Israel, turning any curse into a blessing (Numbers 23:11).

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "Let nothing... hinder thee" (אַל־נָא תִמָּנַע) carries the sense of "do not, please, hold yourself back" or "do not refuse." It conveys a strong appeal, a plea for Balaam to overcome any internal or external obstacles and accept Balak's invitation. The intensity of this appeal reflects Balak's desperation and the high stakes he perceived.

Practical Application

Numbers 22:16 offers several insights for contemporary reflection:

• Recognizing Persistent Temptation: Like Balak's repeated attempts to sway Balaam, temptation often doesn't give up after the first refusal. It can return with greater intensity, more appealing offers, or from more influential sources. Believers are called to remain steadfast against such pressures, as encouraged in James 4:7.
• The Danger of Greed and Worldly Allure: Balaam's story serves as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of wealth and honor when placed above obedience to God. The desire for personal gain can blind individuals to divine will and lead them astray, even those with spiritual gifts.
• God's Unchanging Purpose: Despite the schemes of enemies and the wavering hearts of individuals, God's purposes for His people will prevail. Balak's efforts to curse Israel ultimately failed because God's protection and blessing were upon them.