What is the meaning of Numbers 22:28? Then the LORD opened the donkey’s mouth - God directly intervenes in the natural order, demonstrating His absolute sovereignty (Psalm 115:3). - The miracle is presented straightforwardly; Scripture treats it as literal fact, not allegory. - Similar moments of divine enablement—such as the LORD opening Sarah’s womb (Genesis 21:1-2) or Elisha making an iron axe head float (2 Kings 6:5-7)—remind us that nothing is impossible for Him (Luke 1:37). - By choosing a humble animal, God highlights that He can speak through any vessel He desires (1 Corinthians 1:27-29). and she said to Balaam - Balaam, a renowned pagan seer (Joshua 13:22), is suddenly confronted by his own donkey, exposing the limits of human wisdom compared to God’s (Isaiah 55:8-9). - 2 Peter 2:16 notes that the “mute donkey, speaking with a man’s voice, restrained the prophet’s madness,” underscoring that the animal served as God’s tool of correction. - This conversation prepares Balaam to see the Angel of the LORD standing in the way (Numbers 22:31), illustrating God’s layered approach to getting our attention—first the donkey, then the angel. “What have I done to you that you have beaten me these three times?” - The donkey’s question exposes Balaam’s unjust anger and lack of discernment; he struck the very creature that was protecting him (Numbers 22:32-33). - The “three times” echoes other triple warnings in Scripture (e.g., Samuel calling young Samuel three times in 1 Samuel 3:8) that build urgency and accountability. - The animal’s plea mirrors the LORD’s own heart: God often asks questions (Genesis 3:9; Jonah 4:4) not for information but to provoke reflection and repentance in His people. summary Numbers 22:28 reveals God’s power to override nature, His willingness to humble the proud, and His mercy in providing repeated warnings before judgment. By opening the donkey’s mouth, the LORD demonstrates that He can use the lowliest means to correct and protect, urging us to listen promptly to His guidance—no matter how unexpectedly it arrives. |
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