King James Version
What Does Numbers 23:17 Mean?
“And when he came to him, behold, he stood by his burnt offering, and the princes of Moab with him. And Balak said unto him, What hath the LORD spoken?”
Context
15
And he said unto Balak, Stand here by thy burnt offering, while I meet the LORD yonder.
16
And the LORD met Balaam, and put a word in his mouth, and said, Go again unto Balak, and say thus.
17
And when he came to him, behold, he stood by his burnt offering, and the princes of Moab with him. And Balak said unto him, What hath the LORD spoken?
18
And he took up his parable, and said, Rise up, Balak, and hear; hearken unto me, thou son of Zippor:
19
God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(17) **What hath the Lord spoken?—**Balak here speaks of God under the name *Jehovah.*
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
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.
Theological Significance
Numbers 23:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Numbers 23:17
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge