Numbers 22:22

Then God's anger was kindled because Balaam was going along, and the angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. Balaam was riding his donkey, and his two servants were with him.

Study Bible

Then God’s anger was kindled because Balaam was going along
This phrase indicates divine displeasure with Balaam's actions. Although God initially permitted Balaam to go with Balak's messengers, Balaam's intentions were not aligned with God's will. This reflects the biblical principle that God examines the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Balaam's journey symbolizes a conflict between divine will and human ambition, highlighting the importance of obedience to God over personal gain.

and the angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him
The "angel of the LORD" is often seen as a theophany, a manifestation of God Himself, which underscores the seriousness of the situation. This divine intervention serves as a warning and a barrier to prevent Balaam from proceeding with his misguided mission. The angel's presence signifies God's active role in guiding and correcting His people, similar to other biblical instances where God intervenes directly, such as with Abraham (Genesis 22:11) and Joshua (Joshua 5:13-15).

Balaam was riding his donkey
The donkey, a common mode of transportation in ancient times, becomes a key player in this narrative. The use of a donkey, a humble and lowly animal, contrasts with Balaam's status as a renowned prophet. This scenario foreshadows the New Testament account of Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey (Matthew 21:1-11), symbolizing humility and peace. The donkey's role in the story also emphasizes that God can use any means to accomplish His purposes and communicate His message.

and his two servants were with him
The presence of Balaam's servants highlights the social and cultural norms of the time, where individuals of Balaam's stature would travel with attendants. This detail also serves to authenticate the narrative, providing witnesses to the events that unfold. The servants' presence underscores the public nature of Balaam's journey and the subsequent divine encounter, ensuring that the account of God's intervention would be known and shared.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet or diviner who is summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. Balaam is a complex figure, known for his interactions with God and his eventual role in leading Israel into sin.

2. The Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who appears in the Old Testament, often representing God's presence and authority. In this passage, the Angel of the LORD stands as an adversary to Balaam, indicating divine displeasure.

3. The Donkey
Balaam's donkey plays a crucial role in the account, as it is given the ability to see the Angel of the LORD and eventually speaks to Balaam, highlighting the spiritual blindness of Balaam.

4. The Road
The path Balaam takes to meet Balak. It becomes a place of divine encounter and confrontation, symbolizing the journey of obedience versus disobedience.

5. Balaam's Servants
They accompany Balaam on his journey, witnessing the events but not directly interacting with the divine encounter.

Teaching Points

Divine Opposition to Disobedience
God actively opposes actions that go against His will, as seen in His anger towards Balaam's journey. This serves as a reminder to seek God's guidance and align our actions with His purposes.

Spiritual Blindness
Balaam's inability to see the Angel of the LORD, while his donkey does, illustrates the danger of spiritual blindness. We must remain vigilant and open to God's direction, even when it comes from unexpected sources.

God's Sovereignty and Control
The account demonstrates God's control over all creation, including animals, to fulfill His purposes. Trusting in God's sovereignty can bring peace and assurance in our lives.

The Role of the Angel of the LORD
The Angel of the LORD acts as a divine messenger and enforcer of God's will. Understanding this role can deepen our appreciation for God's active involvement in the world.

The Consequences of Greed
Balaam's account warns against the pursuit of material gain at the expense of righteousness. We are called to prioritize obedience to God over worldly rewards.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Balaam's encounter with the Angel of the LORD challenge our understanding of divine intervention in our lives?

2. In what ways can we become spiritually blind, like Balaam, and how can we cultivate spiritual awareness?

3. How does the account of Balaam and his donkey illustrate the concept of God's sovereignty over creation?

4. What lessons can we learn from Balaam's motivations and actions about the dangers of greed and the pursuit of personal gain?

5. How can the role of the Angel of the LORD in this passage inform our understanding of God's guidance and protection in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 16:7-14
The Angel of the LORD appears to Hagar, showing the recurring role of this divine figure in guiding and intervening in human affairs.

2 Peter 2:15-16
Peter references Balaam's account, highlighting his love for gain from wrongdoing and the rebuke he received from a speechless donkey.

Revelation 2:14
Balaam is mentioned in the context of leading Israel into sin, showing the long-term consequences of his actions.