Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Numbers - Chapter 22 - Verse 9

22:9
And God came unto Balaam, and said, What men are these with thee?

Meaning

In this verse, God came to Balaam, a pagan prophet who had been hired by the king of Moab to curse the Israelites. God's question, "What men are these with thee?", is a way of prompting Balaam to think about the people he is associating himself with. This question serves as a reminder that God is always watching over us and is aware of our actions and relationships. It also highlights the importance of being mindful of the company we keep, as bad company can lead us astray from God's will. By asking Balaam about the men with him, God is also emphasizing the need for discernment and spiritual awareness in all aspects of our lives. As readers, we can reflect on this verse and consider the people we are surrounded by and the influence they have on our thoughts and actions. Ultimately, this verse reminds us of God's presence in our lives and the importance of aligning ourselves with people who will lead us closer to Him.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of the verse "And God came unto Balaam, and said, What men are these with thee?" can be seen as a demonstration of God's omniscience and sovereignty. In this passage, God's question to Balaam reveals His knowledge of the situation even before it is fully explained to Him. This shows that God is always aware of our circumstances and needs, even before we bring them to Him in prayer. It also highlights God's authority over all creation, as He initiates the conversation with Balaam and directs the course of events that follow. Furthermore, this verse emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and direction in our interactions with others, as Balaam is being questioned about the men who have come to him. By studying the original Hebrew words used in this verse, scholars can gain deeper insights into the nuances of the text and the relationship between God and Balaam in this particular encounter.

American Standard Version

And God came unto Balaam, and said, What men are these with thee?
Previous VerseNext Verse