Numbers 22:28

Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you that you have beaten me these three times?"

Study Bible

Then the LORD opened the donkey’s mouth
This miraculous event highlights God's sovereignty and ability to use any means to communicate His will. In the ancient Near Eastern context, animals were not considered capable of human speech, making this event particularly striking. It underscores the theme of divine intervention found throughout Scripture, such as when God uses unexpected means to fulfill His purposes (e.g., the burning bush in Exodus 3). This act also prefigures the New Testament concept of God using the foolish things of the world to shame the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27).

and she said to Balaam
Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, is a complex figure who appears in several biblical texts (Numbers 22-24, Deuteronomy 23:4-5, Joshua 13:22). His story illustrates the tension between human free will and divine sovereignty. The donkey speaking to Balaam serves as a rebuke to the prophet, who, despite his spiritual insight, is blind to God's immediate presence and will. This moment foreshadows the New Testament's emphasis on spiritual blindness and the need for divine revelation (John 9:39-41).

“What have I done to you
The donkey's question is a rhetorical device that highlights Balaam's unjust treatment of the animal. It serves as a mirror to Balaam's own spiritual blindness and stubbornness. This question can be compared to God's inquiries to humanity throughout Scripture, such as His questions to Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:9-13, which are designed to provoke self-reflection and repentance.

that you have beaten me
The act of beating the donkey reflects Balaam's frustration and lack of understanding. In the cultural context, animals were often used for labor and transportation, but the ethical treatment of animals was also a concern, as seen in the Mosaic Law (Deuteronomy 25:4). This moment serves as a critique of Balaam's character and foreshadows his eventual downfall due to his greed and disobedience (2 Peter 2:15-16).

these three times?”
The repetition of "three times" emphasizes the completeness and severity of Balaam's actions. In biblical numerology, the number three often signifies completeness or perfection. This phrase also connects to other instances in Scripture where actions or events occur three times, such as Peter's denial of Christ (Matthew 26:34) and Jesus' threefold restoration of Peter (John 21:15-17). It serves as a reminder of the need for repentance and the possibility of redemption.

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 known for his interactions with God and his eventual blessing of Israel instead of cursing them.

2. The Donkey
Balaam's donkey, which becomes a key figure in this account. God opens the donkey's mouth to speak to Balaam, highlighting the miraculous nature of the event.

3. The Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who stands in the path of Balaam and his donkey, unseen by Balaam but visible to the donkey. The angel's presence is a critical element in the unfolding of God's will.

4. Moab
The region ruled by King Balak, who is fearful of the Israelites and seeks Balaam's help to curse them.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who intervenes in Balaam's journey, demonstrating His sovereignty and control over the situation.

Teaching Points

Divine Intervention
God can use any means, even a donkey, to accomplish His purposes and communicate His will. We should remain open to unexpected ways God might speak to us.

Spiritual Blindness
Balaam's inability to see the angel initially highlights the danger of spiritual blindness. We must seek God's guidance to see His work in our lives.

Obedience to God
Balaam's account reminds us of the importance of aligning our actions with God's will, even when it contradicts our desires or plans.

Humility and Repentance
Balaam's encounter with the speaking donkey is a call to humility and repentance. We should be willing to admit when we are wrong and change our course.

God's Sovereignty
The account underscores God's ultimate control over all situations, reassuring us that His plans will prevail despite human intentions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Balaam and his donkey challenge our understanding of how God can communicate with us today?

2. In what ways can spiritual blindness affect our ability to discern God's will, and how can we guard against it?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced an unexpected intervention in your life. How did it shape your understanding of God's sovereignty?

4. How can Balaam's account encourage us to remain humble and open to correction in our spiritual journey?

5. What other biblical accounts illustrate God's use of unexpected means to fulfill His purposes, and what can we learn from them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham and Isaac, where God intervenes in a significant moment, parallels the divine intervention seen in Balaam's account.

2 Peter 2:15-16
This passage references Balaam's error and the speaking donkey, emphasizing the theme of divine intervention and correction.

Psalm 32:8-9
These verses speak of God's guidance and the importance of not being stubborn like a horse or mule, which can be related to Balaam's initial resistance to God's will.