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Book of Numbers - Chapter 22 - Verse 12

22:12
And God said unto Balaam, Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Numbers, God is speaking to Balaam, a diviner who was asked by the Moabite king Balak to curse the Israelites. God specifically commands Balaam not to go with the messengers sent by Balak and not to curse the Israelites because they are blessed. This shows that God had chosen to bless the Israelites and protect them from harm. By instructing Balaam in this way, God is emphasizing His sovereignty and authority over all nations and individuals. The verse also highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when faced with tempting offers or pressures from others. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder of God's protection and blessings towards His chosen people, ensuring that His divine plans and purposes are fulfilled despite the intentions of others.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the theological interpretation focuses on God's sovereignty and His protection over His chosen people. The command given to Balaam not to curse the Israelites reveals God's ultimate authority over human intentions and actions. Despite being offered riches to curse Israel, Balaam is prevented from doing so by God's direct intervention. This showcases the concept of divine protection for those who are under God's blessing. The theological implication is that God's blessings on His people cannot be reversed or undermined by human efforts. Additionally, the word "blessed" in this verse emphasizes the special favor and protection that God has bestowed upon the Israelites. This word study highlights the idea that God's blessings are irrevocable and secure, beyond the reach of human curses or manipulation. Therefore, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and His unwavering protection over His chosen people.

American Standard Version

And God said unto Balaam, Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people; for they are blessed.
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