Numbers 23:25-30

Why does Balak continue after asking for silence?

Berean Standard Bible

25 Now Balak said to Balaam, “Then neither curse them at all nor bless them at all!” 26 But Balaam replied, “Did I not tell you that whatever the LORD says, I must do?” 27 “Please come,” said Balak, “I will take you to another place. Perhaps it will please God that you curse them for me from there.” 28 And Balak took Balaam to the top of Peor, which overlooks the wasteland. 29 Then Balaam said, “Build for me seven altars here, and prepare for me seven bulls and seven rams.” 30 So Balak did as Balaam had instructed, and he offered a bull and a ram on each altar.

What is the context?

Balak first asks that Balaam neither curse nor bless the people, but Balaam repeats that he must obey what the Lord says. The king then proposes yet another place, hoping God will agree to the curse there.

The same altar preparations are made at Peor. The repetition reveals persistence in seeking a desired answer despite the answers already received. The next chapter describes a change in Balaam’s manner of receiving the oracle.

How is this passage commonly understood?

Wesley emphasizes Balak’s renewed effort rather than a new divine promise to curse. The reader should distinguish the king’s hope that the place will change God’s answer from what the narrative actually says God has permitted.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

Where can I study this further?

No deeper study linked yet.

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