Numbers 22 24

Numbers 22:24 kjv

But the angel of the LORD stood in a path of the vineyards, a wall being on this side, and a wall on that side.

Numbers 22:24 nkjv

Then the Angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path between the vineyards, with a wall on this side and a wall on that side.

Numbers 22:24 niv

Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path through the vineyards, with walls on both sides.

Numbers 22:24 esv

Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path between the vineyards, with a wall on either side.

Numbers 22:24 nlt

Then the angel of the LORD stood at a place where the road narrowed between two vineyard walls.

Numbers 22 verses

Numbers 22 24 Meaning

Numbers 22:24 describes the divine obstruction faced by Balaam on his journey to curse Israel. The verse states, "Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path between the vineyards, with a wall on this side and a wall on that side." This marks a pivotal moment where the Angel of the LORD takes a clear, physical stand, positioned to utterly block Balaam's progress. The scene emphasizes an inescapable divine confrontation, orchestrated to halt Balaam's misguided and divinely forbidden mission.

Numbers 22 24 Context

Numbers 22 narrates Balak, King of Moab, fearing the vast Israelite encampment. He sends for Balaam, a well-known prophet-diviner, to curse Israel. Initially, God forbids Balaam from going, stating, "You must not go with them; you must not curse these people, for they are blessed" (Num 22:12). Balak persists, sending more distinguished officials with greater promises. Though God reluctantly permits Balaam to go (Num 22:20), He warns Balaam to speak only what He commands. Yet, as Balaam sets out, "God's anger was kindled because he went" (Num 22:22), indicating that Balaam's intent or manner of going was displeasing despite the conditional permission. It is within this divine displeasure that the Angel of the LORD intercepts Balaam. This specific verse (22:24) marks the third, most pronounced, and physically confining attempt by the Angel to halt Balaam, establishing an unavoidable blockade after Balaam's donkey had already twice veered off the path, unseen and unheeded by Balaam.

Numbers 22 24 Word analysis

• Then (וַיִּתְיַצֵּב - wa-yyityatzeḇ): An introductory conjunction signaling the next step in the unfolding narrative. The Hebrew verb implies standing firmly, taking one's stand, or placing oneself directly. It denotes a deliberate and immovable presence.

• the angel of the LORD (מַלְאַךְ יְהוָה - Mal'akh YHWH): A significant theological designation in the Old Testament. "Mal'akh" (מַלְאַךְ) means "messenger" or "angel." "YHWH" (יְהוָה) is the sacred personal name of God. This is not just any angel, but "the" angel of the LORD, often understood by scholars as a Christophany (a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ) or a unique manifestation of God Himself. This figure embodies divine authority and direct divine intervention. His appearance signals ultimate authority and decisive action.

• stood (יַעֲמֹד - ya'amod): From the verb "עָמַד" (amad), meaning to stand, stand firm, remain, or endure. Here, it implies an active, resolute positioning to impede progress. It signifies an intentional and unyielding blockage.

• in a narrow path (מִשְׁעוֹל הַכְּרָמִים - mish'ol hakkeramim):

  • מִשְׁעוֹל (mish'ol): A very narrow way or lane, typically a path for one person or animal, with little to no room for turning aside. It suggests restriction and inevitability.
  • הַכְּרָמִים (hakkeramim): "The vineyards." This is an agricultural setting common in the ancient Near East, where vineyards were often enclosed by walls. The phrase highlights a confined space.

• between the vineyards (lit. 'of the vineyards'): This further specifies the type of narrow path, confirming its confined nature within an agricultural landscape. It suggests Balaam is traveling through a cultivated, bordered area.

• with a wall on this side and a wall on that side (גָּדֵר מִזֶּה וְגָדֵר מִזֶּה - gader mizzeh ve'gader mizzeh):

  • גָּדֵר (gader): A stone wall or fence, typically built around vineyards or fields to protect them from animals or mark property boundaries.
  • מִזֶּה (mizzeh): "From here," used repetitively as "on this side... and on that side." This description graphically reinforces the extreme narrowness and absolute confinement of the path. There is literally no room for the donkey or Balaam to maneuver or escape the divine encounter. It leaves no doubt that Balaam's way is entirely and strategically blocked.

• Words-group Analysis:

  • "the angel of the LORD stood": This powerful phrase signifies God's direct, personal, and authoritative intervention. It underscores that this obstruction is not random or circumstantial but divinely orchestrated to stop Balaam's harmful mission.
  • "in a narrow path between the vineyards, with a wall on this side and a wall on that side": This detailed geographical description emphasizes the completeness of the blockage. The setting is critical; it ensures that the donkey, and eventually Balaam, cannot bypass the divine obstacle. This confined space forces a direct, inescapable confrontation with God's will, leaving no room for disobedience or detour. It graphically portrays the tightening net of divine judgment and grace that is closing in on Balaam.

Numbers 22 24 Bonus section

The repeated divine intervention in this narrative underscores God's active involvement in human affairs, even against pagan diviners, to ensure His promises prevail. The phrase "the Angel of the LORD" often signifies not merely a created being, but a manifestation of God's presence, indicating the profound significance of this encounter for Balaam. This episode can be seen as a display of God's persistent grace, offering Balaam repeated opportunities to recognize and repent from his stubborn path. Balaam's failure to see the Angel until his donkey speaks highlights a key biblical theme: true spiritual perception comes from God and is not inherently tied to outward spiritual abilities or a prophet's status. Balaam's lack of discernment, contrasting with his animal's awareness, foreshadows the tragic outcome of his story, where he continues to lead Israel astray despite having delivered God's true blessings upon them.

Numbers 22 24 Commentary

Numbers 22:24 provides a striking image of divine obstruction. Following two less severe warnings that Balaam completely missed, the Angel of the LORD now takes an unequivocally unmissable position. The choice of a "narrow path" hemmed in by "walls" underscores the meticulous nature of God's intervention. There is no escaping this confrontation. The donkey, having superior spiritual sight (highlighting Balaam's profound spiritual blindness despite being a prophet), cannot pass. This detail demonstrates God's sovereignty over Balaam's prophetic gift and intentions, affirming that His purposes for Israel (blessing) cannot be thwarted by human will or even sorcery. The scene serves as a powerful reminder that while God might grant limited freedom of choice, He retains the ultimate authority to prevent any action that contradicts His sovereign plan, especially when it concerns the protection of His chosen people. It also speaks to the spiritual blindness that can afflict those pursuing selfish gain, even if they have outward religious or spiritual capacities.