Why did God become angry with Balaam in Numbers 22:22? The Scene: Balaam on the Road “But God’s anger was kindled because he was going, and the Angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him as he was riding his donkey, accompanied by two of his servants.” (Numbers 22:22) What Had Just Happened? • Balak’s princes offered Balaam “a house full of silver and gold” to curse Israel (22:17). • Balaam already knew God’s answer: “You are not to curse this people, for they are blessed.” (22:12). • A second delegation arrived; Balaam asked again, hoping for a different word. • God permitted him to go if the men called him (22:20), yet Balaam rose early and went without waiting to be summoned (22:21). Three Clues to God’s Anger 1. Compromised obedience • Balaam’s immediate departure reveals eagerness for reward, not zeal to honor God. • He obeyed the letter (“go”) but ignored the spirit (“only if they call you”). 2. Greedy motives • 2 Peter 2:15: “They have gone astray by following the way of Balaam son of Beor, who loved the wages of wickedness.” • Jude 11 echoes the same charge. God sees the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). 3. Threat to God’s covenant blessing • Balaam intended to manipulate divine words for Moab’s profit, endangering Israel whom God had sworn to bless (Genesis 12:3; Deuteronomy 23:5). New Testament Commentary on Balaam’s Heart • 2 Peter 2:16 notes that a “speechless donkey” restrained the prophet’s madness. • Revelation 2:14 exposes Balaam’s later counsel that led Israel into idolatry, showing his mindset was already corrupt. Why Verse 22 Uses Strong Language • The Hebrew conveys burning anger—God personally opposes the prophet, sending the Angel of the LORD with drawn sword. • This intervention protects Israel and warns Balaam that no amount of sorcery overrides God’s sovereign blessing. Lessons for Us Today • Partial obedience, driven by self-interest, provokes God’s displeasure just as much as open rebellion. • When God’s will is clear, seeking “second opinions” reveals a divided heart. • God may allow our chosen path yet confront us en route, calling us back to wholehearted obedience (Proverbs 3:5-6). |
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