What is the meaning of Numbers 23:5? Then • “Then” links directly back to the previous scene where Balaam stood beside seven altars (Numbers 23:4). The word signals that what follows is God’s immediate response to Balaam’s obedience to wait. • Scripture often uses “then” to show God acting at a decisive moment (Genesis 22:10-11; Acts 9:3-6). Here it reminds us that God’s timing is precise and purposeful. the LORD • The covenant name emphasizes that Israel’s personal, promise-keeping God is in charge, not the pagan deities Balak trusts (Numbers 22:12; Isaiah 42:8). • Every true word spoken by a prophet begins with the LORD’s initiative (Jeremiah 1:4-5; Hebrews 1:1). put a message • God “put” His word, underscoring divine inspiration. Balaam is not composing thoughts; he is receiving them (Exodus 4:12; Deuteronomy 18:18). • This handing over of words guarantees accuracy—what God puts, Balaam must pass on unchanged (2 Samuel 23:2; 2 Peter 1:21). in Balaam’s mouth • The image is vivid: God places the exact wording into the prophet’s mouth, bypassing human error (Numbers 24:2-3). • Balaam, though a reluctant and compromised figure, still becomes an instrument of blessing because God can use whomever He chooses (John 11:49-52; Acts 4:25). saying, • The narrative pauses to highlight that what follows is quoted speech from God Himself, carrying full authority (Isaiah 55:11). • It also signals that Balaam’s role is strictly that of a messenger, not an editor (Jeremiah 23:28). "Return to Balak and give him this message." • God commands Balaam to relay the oracle to Balak exactly as received, reinforcing the principle of prophetic obedience (1 Samuel 3:17-18; Jonah 3:2). • Though Balak seeks a curse, God will turn the occasion into a blessing for Israel (Numbers 23:8, 20; Romans 8:31). • The directive to “return” shows God’s concern that the pagan king hears His word firsthand, demonstrating His sovereignty over nations (Psalm 33:10-11). summary Numbers 23:5 shows the LORD taking full control of both the content and delivery of His word. He times His intervention (“Then”), identifies Himself as the ultimate authority (“the LORD”), supplies the exact wording (“put a message”), uses even an imperfect vessel (“in Balaam’s mouth”), marks the speech as His own (“saying”), and insists on faithful transmission (“Return to Balak and give him this message”). The verse affirms that when God speaks, His purpose stands unaltered, ensuring that blessing, not curse, will reach His covenant people. |
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