What is the meaning of Numbers 24:1? And when Balaam saw - Balaam is a real historical figure hired by Balak to curse Israel (Numbers 22:5–6). - Up to this point Balaam has repeatedly tried to speak curses, yet every attempt has been overruled by God (Numbers 23:8, 20). - His “seeing” signals recognition, not a new revelation; he finally notices the pattern of God’s unchanging intent (1 Samuel 15:29). that it pleased the LORD to bless Israel - God’s covenant promise to Abraham—“I will bless those who bless you” (Genesis 12:3)—is still in force as Israel camps on the plains of Moab. - Previous warnings made it clear: “You shall not curse the people, for they are blessed” (Numbers 22:12). - This pleasure of the LORD anticipates later affirmations that Israel is “the apple of His eye” (Deuteronomy 32:9–10; Zechariah 2:8). he did not seek omens as on previous occasions - Earlier he tried sorcery—standing by his altars, watching animal entrails, hoping for a signal (Numbers 23:1–3, 14–15). - Divination is repeatedly condemned (Leviticus 19:26; Deuteronomy 18:10–12); here Balaam finally sets it aside. - His abandonment of omens highlights God’s sovereignty: no occult practice can override divine resolve (Isaiah 47:12–13; Acts 8:9–11). but he turned his face toward the wilderness - Facing the wilderness means orienting himself toward Israel’s encampment, ready to declare what God puts in his mouth (Numbers 24:2–5). - The shift of posture mirrors a shift of heart: Balaam moves from manipulation to submission, at least outwardly. - God often calls people to turn and look where He is working (Exodus 3:3–4; John 4:35). summary Balaam finally recognizes that God’s settled pleasure is to bless Israel. Dropping his occult methods, he positions himself to speak only what the LORD allows. The verse teaches that divine blessing cannot be thwarted by human schemes, and that even reluctant prophets must eventually bow to God’s unchanging covenant purposes. |
    |