Numbers 22:10 - Balaam said to God, “Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab, has said to me,

Generated Verse: Numbers 22:10

What does "Numbers 22:10" mean?


This verse, Numbers 22:10, is part of the story of Balaam and Balak. It marks the beginning of Balaam's report to God about why the Moabite delegation has come to him. Let's break it down:

"Balaam said to God...": This indicates that Balaam, a diviner or sorcerer, is engaging in communication with the divine. The nature of his relationship with God is debated and complex within the Biblical narrative. He seems to have a channel of communication, but his motives and God's tolerance of him are questionable.

"...Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab, has said to me...": This introduces the figure of Balak, who is the king of Moab. He is the one who has summoned Balaam. The phrase emphasizes that Balaam is acting on Balak's request or command. It sets the stage for Balaam to relay Balak's message to God.

In essence, the verse means: "Balaam is speaking to God and stating that King Balak of Moab has sent him a message."

The importance of this verse lies in:

Setting the Scene: It establishes the context of the encounter. God knows why Balaam is there, but this verse is essential for the reader/listener to understand the situation.

Introducing the Players: It reminds us of the key players in the story: Balaam, God, and Balak.

Laying the Groundwork: It prepares the audience for Balaam to reveal the nature of Balak's request and the reasons behind it (as described in the subsequent verses). Balak wants Balaam to curse the Israelites.

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