King James Version
Numbers 22:29 in the King James Version says “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...” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“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.”
Numbers 22:29 · KJV
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.
And the ass said unto Balaam, Am not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? And he said, Nay. upon: Heb. who hast ridden upon me ever since: or, ever since thou wast, etc
Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face. fell: or, bowed himself
KJV Study — Public Domain
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“Because thou hast mocked”
H5953to effect thoroughly; by implication (in a bad sense) to overdo, i.e., maltreat, be saucy to, pain, impose (also literal)
“me I would”
H3863a conditional particle; if; by implication (interj. as a wish) would that!
“there were”
H3426there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
“a sword”
H2719drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
“in mine hand”
H3027a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
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 22:29 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 22:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge