Numbers 24:4

"He took up his parable, and said, “Balaam the son of Beor says, the man whose eyes are open says;"

Key Reflection

Numbers 24:4 introduces a prophetic utterance made by Balaam, who is renowned for his attempts to curse Israel but ends up blessing them instead. The phrase "the man whose eyes are open" likely refers to Balaam's clarity and insight into divine visions, suggesting that he speaks with divine authority and understanding. This cultural context highlights the significant role of prophetic vision in ancient Israelite society, where seeing and interpreting divine revelations was crucial for both personal and communal guidance.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

The “falling” of which Balaam speaks was the condition under which the inward opening of his eyes took place. It indicates the force of the divine inspiration overpowering the seer. The faithful prophets of the Lord do not appear to have been subject to these violent illapsesDaniel 8:17;Revelation 1:17. In Balaam and in Saul1 Samuel 19:24the word of God could only prevail by first subduing the alien will, and overpowering the bodily energies which the will ordinarily directs.

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