Numbers 22:2
And Balak the son of Zippor saw all that Israel had done to the Amorites.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּ֥רְא
saw
H7200
וַיַּ֥רְא
saw
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
1 of 10
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
בֶּן
the son
H1121
בֶּן
the son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
3 of 10
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
אֵ֛ת
H853
אֵ֛ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
6 of 10
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
אֲשֶׁר
H834
אֲשֶׁר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
7 of 10
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
עָשָׂ֥ה
had done
H6213
עָשָׂ֥ה
had done
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
8 of 10
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
Historical Context
Israel's victories over Sihon and Og, the Amorite kings (21:21-35), demonstrated God's power and struck fear into neighboring nations. Balak's resort to hiring a diviner showed both recognition of Israel's divine favor and attempt to counter it through spiritual means.
Questions for Reflection
- How do your spiritual victories provoke enemy attempts at spiritual counterattack?
- What does enemy resort to spiritual warfare reveal about your effectiveness for God's kingdom?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Balak 'saw all that Israel had done to the Amorites,' prompting fear that led to hiring Balaam. When military options fail, enemies resort to spiritual weapons. Balak's attempt to curse Israel demonstrated recognition that Israel's power was supernatural, not merely military. This acknowledges (though perverts) the truth that spiritual realities determine material outcomes.