Numbers 23: Divine Sovereignty and Balaam’s Unintentional Blessing

Executive Summary ✨

This chapter of Numbers, 23, unveils a fascinating dance between divine sovereignty and human will, focusing on Balaam, a diviner hired to curse Israel. Instead of cursing, Balaam, compelled by God, delivers a series of powerful blessings upon Israel. These blessings highlight Israel’s unique status as a chosen nation, their immense multitude, and their ultimate victory over their enemies. The narrative underscores the undeniable power of God to override human intentions and utilize even the most unwilling instruments to accomplish His divine purposes. Ultimately, Numbers 23 reveals God’s unwavering commitment to His covenant with Israel and His capacity to transform curses into blessings, a pivotal lesson resonating throughout salvation history, demonstrating how even seemingly negative circumstances can be used for divine good. The focus key phrase, **Divine Sovereignty and Blessing**, emphasizes the overarching theme of God’s control and favor.

Numbers 23 presents a pivotal moment in the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness. Balak, King of Moab, terrified by the sheer number and strength of Israel, hires Balaam, a renowned diviner, to curse them. But what unfolds is a remarkable display of divine intervention. Instead of curses, Balaam utters prophecies of blessing, revealing God’s unwavering commitment to His people. This chapter is not just a historical narrative, but a profound theological statement on the nature of God’s sovereignty. We will delve into each verse, unpacking its significance within the broader context of Scripture and Coptic Orthodox tradition, seeking understanding and practical application for our modern lives.

Commentary on Numbers 23

Numbers 23:1 KJV

“And Balaam said unto Balak, Build me here seven altars, and prepare me here seven oxen and seven rams.”

Numbers 23:1 NKJV

“Then Balaam said to Balak, “Build seven altars for me here, and prepare for me seven bulls and seven rams.””

Balaam, seeking to discern the divine will, instructs Balak to build seven altars and prepare seven oxen and seven rams. The number seven often signifies completeness or perfection in Scripture, potentially indicating Balaam’s attempt to invoke a comprehensive blessing (or curse, as he initially intended). The multiple sacrifices point to a desire to appease or manipulate the divine, a common practice in ancient Near Eastern religions. This sets the stage for a confrontation between pagan practices and the sovereign will of God. Spiritually, this reminds us of the dangers of seeking to control or manipulate God through rituals, rather than approaching Him in humility and obedience. We should seek true conversion, as offered in our church conversion tools.

Numbers 23:5 KJV

“And the Lord put a word in Balaam’s mouth, and said, Return unto Balak, and thus thou shalt speak.”

Numbers 23:5 NKJV

“Then the Lord put a word in Balaam’s mouth, and said, “Return to Balak, and thus you shall speak.””

This verse marks a turning point. God actively intervenes, placing His word in Balaam’s mouth. This isn’t mere inspiration; it’s divine dictation. Balaam becomes a reluctant prophet, compelled to speak God’s message despite his own intentions. This highlights God’s absolute authority over even those who oppose Him. As St. Athanasius said, “Ὁ γὰρ Θεὸς οὐκ ἀδυνατεῖ ἀπὸ τῶν ἐχθρῶν ποιῆσαι τὰ ἀγαθά” (Ho gar Theos ouk adynatei apo tōn echthrōn poiēsai ta agatha) – “For God is not powerless to bring good from enemies.” (Contra Arianos, 3.65). This principle is visible in the story of Joseph, where his brothers’ betrayal ultimately led to the salvation of their family. In our lives, we must trust that God can use even difficult circumstances and challenging people to fulfill His purposes.

Numbers 23:7-10 KJV

“And he took up his parable, and said, Balak the king of Moab hath brought me from Aram, out of the mountains of the east, saying, Come, curse me Jacob, and come, defy Israel. How shall I curse, whom God hath not cursed? or how shall I defy, whom the Lord hath not defied? 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. 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!”

Numbers 23:7-10 NKJV

“Then he took up his oracle and said: “Balak has brought me from Aram, The king of Moab from the mountains of the east. ‘Come, curse Jacob for me, And come, denounce Israel!’ “How shall I curse whom God has not cursed? And how shall I denounce whom the Lord has not denounced? For from the top of the rocks I see him, And from the hills I behold him; There! A people dwelling alone, Not reckoning itself among the nations. Who can count the dust of Jacob, Or number one-fourth of Israel? Let me die the death of the righteous, And let my end be like his!””

Balaam’s first oracle is a powerful declaration of God’s protection over Israel. He acknowledges that he cannot curse whom God has blessed. The phrase “the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations” speaks to Israel’s unique covenant relationship with God, setting them apart from the other nations. Their countless descendants, “like the dust of Jacob,” signify the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham (Genesis 13:16). Balaam’s longing to “die the death of the righteous” is poignant, highlighting the allure of a life lived in obedience to God, even for someone who is not himself righteous. However, it’s important to note that wishing for a righteous death is not a substitute for living a righteous life. We, too, should strive to live according to God’s will, seeking His grace and guidance daily, that we may die in peace and enter into His eternal rest. This concept can be linked to the Deuterocanonical book of Wisdom (3:1-3) which speaks of the souls of the righteous being in God’s hand.

Numbers 23:18-24 KJV

“And he took up his parable, and said, Rise up, Balak, and hear; hearken unto me, thou son of Zippor: God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? Behold, I have received commandment to bless: and he hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it. He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath he seen perverseness in Israel: the Lord his God is with him, and the shout of a king is among them. God brought them forth out of Egypt; he hath as it were the strength of an unicorn. Surely there is no enchantment against Jacob, neither is there any divination against Israel: according to this time it shall be said of Jacob and of Israel, What hath God wrought! Behold, the people shall rise up as a great lion, and lift up himself as a young lion: he shall not lie down until he eat of the prey, and drink the blood of the slain.”

Numbers 23:18-24 NKJV

“Then he took up his oracle and said: “Rise up, Balak, hear! Listen to me, son of Zippor! “God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good? Behold, I have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot reverse it.” “He has not observed iniquity in Jacob, Nor has He seen wickedness in Israel. The Lord his God is with him, And the shout of a King is among them. God brings them out of Egypt; He has strength like a wild ox. “For there is no sorcery against Jacob, Nor any divination against Israel. It now must be said of Jacob And of Israel, ‘Oh, what God has done!’ Behold, these people rise like a lioness, And lift themselves up like a lion; They shall not lie down until they devour the prey, And drink the blood of the slain.””

This second oracle reaffirms God’s unwavering commitment to Israel. Balaam emphasizes God’s trustworthiness: “God is not a man, that he should lie.” This highlights the contrast between the fickle nature of humanity and the steadfastness of God’s character. The proclamation, “He has not beheld iniquity in Jacob,” does not imply that Israel was sinless, but rather that God, in His mercy and covenant faithfulness, chose to overlook their transgressions, focusing instead on His promises. The imagery of a lion rising to devour its prey conveys Israel’s future military strength and dominance. The mention of “no sorcery against Jacob” reinforces the futility of attempting to thwart God’s plans. This passage emphasizes that God’s blessings are irrevocable and that He will always protect His chosen people, foreshadowing the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Christ. Abba Isaac the Blind, in his homilies, emphasizes the importance of focusing on the positive, seeing the good in others even amidst imperfections, reflecting this same divine perspective. (Homilies of Abba Isaac the Blind, Homily 4). This reminds us to extend grace and understanding to others, focusing on their potential for good rather than dwelling on their flaws. Our focus should be on the **Divine Sovereignty and Blessing** bestowed upon those who strive to follow God’s will.

Theological Implications of Balaam’s Blessings

Balaam’s unintentional blessings offer profound theological insights into the nature of God, His sovereignty, and His relationship with His chosen people. Here are key reflections:

  • Divine Sovereignty: God’s ability to control even the wills of those who oppose Him demonstrates His absolute power and authority over all creation.
  • Unconditional Love: Despite Israel’s imperfections and occasional disobedience, God’s love and commitment to them remain unwavering.
  • Irrevocable Blessings: God’s blessings are not contingent on human merit but are freely given based on His grace and covenant faithfulness.
  • Prophetic Foresight: Balaam’s prophecies foreshadow Israel’s future greatness and their ultimate victory over their enemies, pointing towards the Messianic Kingdom.
  • Spiritual Warfare: The narrative highlights the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil and the futility of attempting to thwart God’s plans through occult practices.
  • Transformation: God has the power to transform curses into blessings, demonstrating His ability to redeem even the most challenging circumstances.

FAQ ❓

  • Why did God allow Balaam to offer sacrifices to pagan gods?

    God’s allowance doesn’t necessarily imply approval. He used the situation to demonstrate His superiority over pagan deities and to reveal His sovereign will. This allowed Balaam and Balak to witness God’s power firsthand.

  • What is the significance of the repeated sacrifices and altars?

    The repetition likely reflects Balaam’s desperation to manipulate the divine, a common practice in ancient pagan religions. The number seven signifies completeness, highlighting the extensive effort invested in seeking a desired outcome, however futile against God’s will.

  • How does this story relate to the New Testament?

    The themes of divine sovereignty, blessing, and the futility of opposing God resonate throughout the New Testament. The concept of God’s chosen people extends to the Church, and the promise of victory over evil finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ’s resurrection and ascension.

  • What practical lessons can we learn from Balaam’s story today?

    We learn the importance of submitting to God’s will, even when it contradicts our own desires. We are reminded that God’s blessings are more powerful than any curse and that He can use even our mistakes and shortcomings for His glory. We must trust in His sovereignty in all circumstances.

Conclusion

Numbers 23 is a powerful testament to the **Divine Sovereignty and Blessing** that defines God’s relationship with His people. Balaam’s story serves as a potent reminder that God’s plans cannot be thwarted by human intentions, regardless of how influential or powerful they may seem. He can transform curses into blessings, and He can use even the most unwilling instruments to accomplish His divine purposes. This narrative calls us to trust in God’s unwavering commitment to His promises, to seek His will in all things, and to rest assured that He is always working for our good, even when we cannot see it. May we, like the Israelites, remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that God’s blessings are upon us and that He will ultimately lead us to victory, as He did with them and the Moabites during that era.

Tags

Balaam, Balak, Israel, Blessing, Curse, Prophecy, Divine Sovereignty, Numbers 23, Coptic Orthodox, Old Testament

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Explore Numbers 23: Balaam’s unexpected blessing upon Israel reveals God’s **Divine Sovereignty and Blessing**. A Coptic Orthodox commentary. Learn how God transforms curses!

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