King James Version
Numbers 22:27 in the King James Version says “And when the ass saw the angel of the LORD, she fell down under Balaam: and Balaam's anger was kindled, and he smote the...” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And when the ass saw the angel of the LORD, she fell down under Balaam: and Balaam's anger was kindled, and he smote the ass with a staff.”
Numbers 22:27 · KJV
And when the ass saw the angel of the LORD, she thrust herself unto the wall, and crushed Balaam's foot against the wall: and he smote her again.
And the angel of the LORD went further, and stood in a narrow place, where was no way to turn either to the right hand or to the left.
And when the ass saw the angel of the LORD, she fell down under Balaam: and Balaam's anger was kindled, and he smote the ass with a staff.
And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?
And Balaam said unto the ass, Because thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“saw”
H7200to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“the angel”
H4397a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)
“of the LORD”
H3068(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
“she fell down”
H7257to crouch (on all four legs folded, like a recumbent animal); by implication, to recline, repose, brood, lurk, imbed
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
“was kindled”
H2734to glow or grow warm; figuratively (usually) to blaze up, of anger, zeal, jealousy
“anger”
H639properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“with a staff”
H4731a shoot, i.e., stick (with leaves on, or for walking, striking, guiding, divining)
This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Numbers 22:27 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Numbers 22:27 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge