Numbers 23:24
Behold, the people shall rise up as a great lion, and lift up himself as a young lion: he shall not lie down until he eat of the prey, and drink the blood of the slain.
Original Language Analysis
עָם֙
Behold the people
H5971
עָם֙
Behold the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
2 of 14
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
כְּלָבִ֣יא
as a great lion
H3833
כְּלָבִ֣יא
as a great lion
Strong's:
H3833
Word #:
3 of 14
a lion (properly, a lioness as the fiercer (although not a roarer;))
יָק֔וּם
shall rise up
H6965
יָק֔וּם
shall rise up
Strong's:
H6965
Word #:
4 of 14
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
יִתְנַשָּׂ֑א
and lift up
H5375
יִתְנַשָּׂ֑א
and lift up
Strong's:
H5375
Word #:
6 of 14
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
לֹ֤א
H3808
לֹ֤א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
7 of 14
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יִשְׁכַּב֙
he shall not lie down
H7901
יִשְׁכַּב֙
he shall not lie down
Strong's:
H7901
Word #:
8 of 14
to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)
עַד
H5704
עַד
Strong's:
H5704
Word #:
9 of 14
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
טֶ֔רֶף
of the prey
H2964
טֶ֔רֶף
of the prey
Strong's:
H2964
Word #:
11 of 14
something torn, i.e., a fragment, e.g., a fresh leaf, prey, food
וְדַם
the blood
H1818
וְדַם
the blood
Strong's:
H1818
Word #:
12 of 14
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
Cross References
Historical Context
This prophecy anticipated Israel's conquest of Canaan, where surrounding nations would marvel at God's power displayed through His people (Joshua 2:9-11, 9:9). God's works through His people serve as testimony to His reality and power.
Questions for Reflection
- What works in your life should cause observers to exclaim 'What hath God wrought!'?
- How can you ensure God receives credit for accomplishments in your life and ministry?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Balaam prophesies that of Israel 'it shall be said, What hath God wrought!' (literally 'done' or 'accomplished'). This exclamation anticipates nations marveling at God's mighty works for Israel. The phrase became famous through Samuel Morse's first telegraph message in 1844, recognizing God's sovereign work in human achievements. All who observe God's people should see His mighty acts, not human accomplishment.