Numbers 22:11

Behold, a people has come out of Egypt, and they cover the face of the land. Now come and put a curse on them for me. Perhaps I may be able to fight against them and drive them away.'"

Study Bible

Behold, a people has come out of Egypt
This phrase refers to the Israelites, who had been delivered from slavery in Egypt by God's mighty hand. The Exodus is a foundational event in Israel's history, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness. The mention of Egypt highlights the miraculous nature of their deliverance and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham (Genesis 15:13-14). The Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land is a central narrative in the Pentateuch, illustrating themes of redemption and covenant.

and they cover the face of the land
This imagery suggests the vast number of Israelites, emphasizing their growth from a small family into a great nation, as promised to Abraham (Genesis 12:2). The phrase also conveys a sense of threat to the surrounding nations, as the Israelites' presence is overwhelming. This fulfills God's promise to make Israel numerous (Genesis 22:17) and foreshadows their eventual settlement in Canaan.

Now come and put a curse on them for me
Balak, the king of Moab, seeks to employ Balaam, a diviner, to curse the Israelites. In the ancient Near East, blessings and curses were believed to have real power, often invoked by deities or through intermediaries. This reflects the spiritual warfare aspect of Israel's journey, as they face opposition not only physically but also spiritually. The request for a curse highlights the fear and desperation of Moab in the face of Israel's advance.

Perhaps I may be able to fight against them and drive them away
Balak's hope is that a curse will weaken the Israelites, making them vulnerable to military defeat. This reflects the common belief in the power of spoken words and divine intervention in battles. Historically, the Moabites were descendants of Lot (Genesis 19:37), and their fear of Israel's God-driven success underscores the tension between Israel and its neighbors. This also prefigures the spiritual battles believers face, relying on God's strength rather than human means.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balak
The king of Moab who is fearful of the Israelites and seeks to curse them through Balaam.

2. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet or diviner who is summoned by Balak to curse the Israelites.

3. Israelites
The people of God who have come out of Egypt and are journeying to the Promised Land.

4. Moab
The region ruled by Balak, which is threatened by the presence of the Israelites.

5. Egypt
The land from which the Israelites have been delivered, symbolizing their liberation and God's faithfulness.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Protection
Despite human intentions to harm, God protects His people and can turn curses into blessings.

The Power of Words and Intentions
Words have power, but God's will prevails. We must align our intentions with God's purposes.

Faithfulness in the Face of Opposition
Like the Israelites, believers may face opposition, but they can trust in God's deliverance and faithfulness.

The Danger of Greed and Compromise
Balaam's account warns against compromising faith for material gain or personal advantage.

The Importance of Obedience to God
Obedience to God is crucial, even when faced with external pressures or temptations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Balaam and Balak illustrate God's protection over His people, and how can this encourage us in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we be tempted to compromise our faith for personal gain, and how can we guard against this?

3. How does the account of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land serve as a metaphor for our spiritual journey?

4. What can we learn from the Israelites' experience about trusting God in the face of opposition or fear?

5. How can we ensure that our words and intentions align with God's will, especially when faced with difficult situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12-14
The Israelites' exodus from Egypt, highlighting God's deliverance and faithfulness.

Deuteronomy 23:4-5
God's command not to seek peace or prosperity for the Moabites because of their actions against Israel.

Joshua 24:9-10
A recounting of how God did not allow Balaam to curse Israel, turning the curse into a blessing.

2 Peter 2:15
A New Testament reference to Balaam, warning against the love of gain over righteousness.