Book of Numbers - Chapter 22 - Verse 21

In this verse, we see Balaam, a diviner, beginning his journey with the princes of Moab after being summoned to curse the Israelites. Balaam is depicted as a man of action, as he rises early in the morning, saddles his donkey, and sets off on his journey. This simple act of preparing his donkey for the trip signifies his obedience and eagerness to carry out the task he has been given. It also foreshadows the events that will unfold during his journey, particularly the unfolding of divine intervention through the remarkable conversation between Balaam and his speaking donkey that follows later in the story. The verse sets the stage for the subsequent events that will test Balaam's loyalty to God and his true intentions towards the Israelites.

One theological interpretation of the verse "And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab" can be seen in the significance of Balaam's actions. The fact that Balaam rose early in the morning could symbolize his eagerness to carry out his plans or the urgency of the situation he was facing. By saddling his donkey himself, Balaam demonstrates his independence and self-sufficiency. This act also shows his readiness for the journey ahead. Additionally, the mention of Balaam going with the princes of Moab could imply that he was aligning himself with those who were not followers of God's ways. This could serve as a warning against the temptation to compromise one's beliefs for personal gain or power.