Numbers 24:18

And Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession for his enemies; and Israel shall do valiantly.

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}.

His enemies will be his possessions -Edom and Se'ir, possessions. Isra'el will do valiantly,

Edom will become a possession, as will Seir, his enemy; but Israel will perform with valor.

And Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession, who were his enemies; While Israel doeth valiantly.

Commentary

Numbers 24:18 is a powerful prophetic declaration by Balaam, delivered despite King Balak's intentions for him to curse Israel. Instead, Balaam, compelled by the Spirit of God, consistently pronounces blessings and foretells Israel's future prominence and victory over its adversaries. This verse specifically highlights the subjugation of Edom and Seir by Israel, emphasizing God's sovereign plan for His chosen people.

Context

This verse is part of Balaam's fourth and final oracle in Numbers 24. Having failed to curse Israel from various vantage points, Balaam, under divine compulsion, shifts from general blessings to specific prophecies concerning Israel's future dominion over surrounding nations. Following a vision of a "Star out of Jacob" and a "Scepter out of Israel" (Numbers 24:17), which is often interpreted as a messianic prophecy or a prophecy of a great Israelite king, Balaam then details the subjugation of specific enemies, beginning with Edom.

Key Themes

  • Divine Sovereignty and Unstoppable Purpose: The prophecy underscores that God's plans for Israel cannot be thwarted by human or demonic opposition. Even a paid prophet like Balaam could not curse whom God had blessed.
  • Israel's Promised Dominance: This verse foretells Israel's future military strength and territorial expansion. The phrase "Edom shall be a possession" signifies a complete conquest and absorption of their land and resources.
  • Conquest of Edom and Seir: Edom refers to the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, and their territory south of Judah. Seir is the mountainous region primarily associated with Edom (Genesis 36:8). Historically, this prophecy saw significant fulfillment during the reign of King David, who thoroughly subdued Edom (2 Samuel 8:14).
  • Israel's Valiance: The declaration "Israel shall do valiantly" speaks to the strength, courage, and prowess God would grant His people in fulfilling His purposes. It implies both military success and a righteous strength of character.

Linguistic Insights

  • The term "possession" (Hebrew: yerushah or morasha, related to 'inheritance') implies not just temporary occupation but a lasting claim and ownership, reflecting Israel's destiny to inherit the promised land and surrounding territories.
  • "Valiantly" comes from the Hebrew word chayil (Χ—Φ·Χ™Φ΄Χœ), which is a rich term meaning strength, power, military force, wealth, or virtue. In this context, it emphasizes Israel's effective and strong action in battle, empowered by God.

Practical Application

Numbers 24:18 offers several enduring lessons for believers today:

  • God's Promises are Sure: Just as God's prophecy for Israel's triumph was fulfilled, we can trust in His promises for our lives and His church. His purposes will stand, regardless of opposition.
  • Divine Empowerment: God empowers His people to accomplish His will. When we are called to do something, He provides the strength and courage to "do valiantly," not relying on our own might but on His.
  • Hope in Adversity: Even when surrounded by those who wish us harm (like Balak wishing to curse Israel), God can turn curses into blessings and ensure His people's ultimate victory. This provides immense hope in challenging times.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness and His ultimate sovereignty over nations and history, ensuring the success of His chosen people.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Amos 9:12 (5 votes)

    That they may possess the remnant of Edom, and of all the heathen, which are called by my name, saith the LORD that doeth this.

  • 2 Samuel 8:14 (3 votes)

    And he put garrisons in Edom; throughout all Edom put he garrisons, and all they of Edom became David's servants. And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.

  • Genesis 27:29 (3 votes)

    Let people serve thee, and nations bow down to thee: be lord over thy brethren, and let thy mother's sons bow down to thee: cursed [be] every one that curseth thee, and blessed [be] he that blesseth thee.

  • Isaiah 63:1 (2 votes)

    ΒΆ Who [is] this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this [that is] glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.

  • Genesis 27:40 (2 votes)

    And by thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt serve thy brother; and it shall come to pass when thou shalt have the dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck.

  • Genesis 32:3 (2 votes)

    ΒΆ And Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau his brother unto the land of Seir, the country of Edom.

  • Psalms 60:8 (2 votes)

    Moab [is] my washpot; over Edom will I cast out my shoe: Philistia, triumph thou because of me.