If God permitted Balaam to go (Numbers 22:20), why did He become angry with him later (Numbers 22:22)?

Context and Background

Balaam, a figure referenced in Numbers 22–24, is approached by emissaries from Balak, king of Moab, who wishes to hire Balaam to curse the Israelites. The narrative then provides a series of divine interactions—first forbidding Balaam’s journey, then permitting it under certain conditions, and ultimately opposing his path. While on the surface this may appear contradictory, a closer look reveals deeper heart motivations and God’s unfolding purpose.

Biblical Text of Focus

• Permitted to Go:

“Then God came to Balaam at night and said to him, ‘Since these men have come to summon you, get up and go with them. But you must only do what I tell you.’” (Numbers 22:20)

• Divine Displeasure:

“But God was incensed that Balaam was going, 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.” (Numbers 22:22)

Why God Allowed Balaam’s Departure

1. Divine Testing

God’s permission in Numbers 22:20 includes an explicit condition: Balaam must only declare what God reveals. This permission functions as a test. Balaam, though recognized as a powerful seer, is not autonomous; he must submit to God’s authority. This is reinforced throughout the narrative whenever Balaam attempts to pronounce a curse but instead blesses Israel (Numbers 23–24).

2. Demonstration of Sovereignty

By allowing Balaam to travel, God sovereignly positions events so that His supremacy is displayed to Balak, Balaam, and ultimately the nations. The outcome (Balaam’s repeated blessings of Israel instead of curses) underscores that no external power can undermine God’s covenant with His people.

Why God Became Angry with Balaam

1. Motives and Heart Condition

Although Balaam was given permission to go, the text indicates that his heart was enticed by the wealth and prestige Balak offered (cf. Numbers 22:17–19). Second Peter 2:15 later describes Balaam’s path as one motivated by greed. This inward motivation—rather than abiding in full obedience—brought God’s anger.

2. Failure to Heed God’s Restriction

Permission was never unconditional. God clearly stated to Balaam: “You must only do what I tell you” (Numbers 22:20). Yet Balaam’s eagerness to please Balak and secure a reward made his journey more about ambition than obedience. God’s anger results from Balaam’s disregard for the spirit of God’s instruction.

3. Revelation of God’s Character

God’s anger does not indicate fickleness. Instead, it highlights His righteousness: God cannot tolerate insincerity wherein someone outwardly appears compliant yet inwardly nurtures selfish aims. Psalm 139:2 affirms that God knows every human thought, and Balaam’s hidden intentions became the real source of divine indignation.

Harmonizing the Texts

1. No Contradiction

Some see Numbers 22:20 and 22:22 as contradictory, but the key lies in God’s conditional blessing versus Balaam’s internal motives. God’s “go” was paired with the demand for complete submission to divine commands. Where Balaam erred was straying in heart, presuming upon God’s words, and harboring ulterior motives.

2. Ancient Textual Consistency

Archaeological finds, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, confirm the remarkable preservation of the Hebrew text. Careful comparison of the Masoretic Text with ancient manuscripts shows internal consistency in Numbers. The continuity of the narrative and repeated references to Balaam’s heart posture unify these verses without genuine tension.

3. Historical and Cultural Setting

Balaam’s story unfolds in the plains of Moab, an area attested by various ancient records and inscriptions (including the famous Mesha Stele, which references Moabite interactions with Israel). The historical context places Balaam’s “oracles” at a time critical for Israel’s entrance into the Promised Land, when local kings—such as Balak—were looking to hinder Israel’s safe passage and settlement.

Theological Significance

1. God’s Omnipotence Over Human Plans

No matter the spiritual gifts or reputation of a human agent, God remains ultimately in control. The donkey’s miraculous speech (Numbers 22:28–30) illustrates God’s power over creation and underscores that even an animal can rebuke a prophet whose heart is misaligned.

2. Lesson on Obedience

This account teaches that partial obedience or insincere compliance runs counter to true submission. Even when our actions appear permitted by God, a corrupt heart sparks God’s discipline. This principle applies broadly to believers, underscoring the need for wholehearted devotion.

3. Foreshadowing Divine Blessing

Balaam’s eventual blessing of Israel (Numbers 23–24) foreshadows the unshakeable nature of divine promises. In the New Testament, the fulfillment of God’s promises finds ultimate expression in the resurrection of Christ (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:20). Just as Balaam could not curse those whom God had blessed, death could not hold the promised Savior.

Responses from Jewish and Early Christian Writings

1. Jewish Interpretations

Ancient Jewish literature often portrays Balaam as an example of a prophet who falls prey to corrupt desires. Although he heard from God, he failed to remain faithful. These writings emphasize that God’s anger reflects the seriousness of disobedience.

2. New Testament Reflection

In 2 Peter 2:15, Jude 11, and Revelation 2:14, Balaam’s name surfaces as a cautionary lesson. These passages point to greed, moral compromise, or the temptation to lead others astray—for which Balaam was censured.

Archaeological and Linguistic Considerations

1. Moabite Stone (Mesha Stele)

While it does not mention Balaam by name, it correlates with the biblical portrayal of Moab resisting the encroaching Israelites. This context supports a historical setting of conflict and explains why Balak would summon Balaam for curses.

2. Qumran Manuscript Evidence

The Dead Sea Scrolls contain fragments of Deuteronomy and other early Old Testament writings. Though Balaam’s story in Numbers is not among the best-preserved scrolls, these texts confirm the consistent transmission of the Torah, of which Numbers is an integral part.

Practical Application

1. Obedience in All Things

The narrative exhorts readers to guard not only actions but also motives. Lip-service obedience without a sincere heart can incur divine discipline.

2. Trust in God’s Sovereignty

The story offers reassurance that God’s plan for His people cannot be overturned by human scheming. This remains true in all circumstances.

3. Mindful Use of Gifts

Balaam’s prophetic gift, while real, became compromised. Talents or callings must align with godly character and submission to divine instruction.

Conclusion

God’s permission for Balaam to travel was never a blanket endorsement of every aspect of Balaam’s behavior. The Lord tested the prophet’s motives and found them wanting. Numbers 22:20 and 22:22 stand in perfect harmony when interpreted with an understanding of Balaam’s inward greed and God’s unwavering standard of obedience.

Ultimately, it is a reminder that what God allows is not always what God approves. Although Balaam was granted leave to go, the deeper dimension of his spiritual or moral state drew God’s disciplinary intervention. This principle echoes throughout Scripture: while God may grant humanity freedom, He also holds each person accountable for how that freedom is used.