Topical Bible: Vision of Balaam in a Trance

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Vision of Balaam in a Trance is a significant event recorded in the Book of Numbers, chapters 22 to 24, where Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, receives divine revelations concerning the people of Israel. This narrative unfolds as Balak, the king of Moab, seeks to curse the Israelites, who are encamped on the plains of Moab, by hiring Balaam to pronounce a curse upon them.

Context and Background

Balaam, son of Beor, is introduced as a diviner from Pethor, near the Euphrates River. Despite his foreign origin, Balaam is portrayed as a man who possesses knowledge of the true God, Yahweh. Balak, fearing the encroaching Israelites, sends messengers to Balaam with rewards, urging him to curse Israel. Initially, God instructs Balaam not to go with the Moabite officials, stating, "You are not to curse these people, for they are blessed" (Numbers 22:12).

Balaam's Journey and Encounter with the Angel

Despite God's initial prohibition, Balaam is eventually permitted to accompany Balak's envoys, but only to speak what God commands. On his journey, Balaam's donkey sees the Angel of the LORD standing in the way and turns aside, leading to a remarkable incident where the donkey speaks to Balaam after being struck three times. The Angel of the LORD then reveals Himself to Balaam, reiterating the command to speak only what he is told (Numbers 22:22-35).

The Trance and Prophetic Oracles

Upon arriving in Moab, Balaam instructs Balak to build seven altars and offer sacrifices. It is during these sacrificial rituals that Balaam enters a trance-like state, receiving visions from God. The term "trance" in this context refers to a state of heightened spiritual awareness, where Balaam's eyes are opened to perceive divine truths.

1. First Oracle: Balaam declares that he cannot curse whom God has not cursed, affirming Israel's unique status and divine protection. He proclaims, "How can I curse those whom God has not cursed? How can I denounce those whom the LORD has not denounced?" (Numbers 23:8).

2. Second Oracle: Balaam emphasizes God's unchanging nature and His commitment to bless Israel. He states, "God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?" (Numbers 23:19).

3. Third Oracle: Balaam's vision expands to encompass Israel's future prosperity and dominance. He describes Israel as a lion and a people who will rise victoriously, saying, "May those who bless you be blessed, and those who curse you be cursed!" (Numbers 24:9).

4. Fourth Oracle: In his final vision, Balaam prophesies the coming of a ruler from Israel, a messianic figure who will crush the enemies of God's people. He declares, "I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob, and a scepter will rise out of Israel" (Numbers 24:17).

Theological Significance

The Vision of Balaam in a Trance underscores several key theological themes. It highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to use even a pagan prophet to convey His purposes. The narrative affirms the irrevocable nature of God's blessing upon Israel, demonstrating that no human power can thwart His divine will. Furthermore, Balaam's oracles foreshadow the coming of a messianic deliverer, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises through the lineage of Israel.

Balaam's experience serves as a testament to the power and authority of God's word, illustrating that true prophecy is not subject to human manipulation or desire. The narrative also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the importance of obedience to God's commands.

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Acts 22:17-21
And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;
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