Numbers 22:12 Meaning and Explanation
“And God said unto Balaam, Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God forbids Balaam to join the delegation or curse Israel, because Israel is under divine blessing.
The Context of Numbers 22:12
God explicitly forbids Balaam to curse the blessed people of Israel.
What Does Numbers 22:12 Mean?
God's command is unambiguous and twofold: Balaam must refuse both the journey and the cursing. The reason is equally clear: Israel bears God's blessing, which places them beyond the reach of any human curse, even one as potent as Balaam's reputed power.
This divine prohibition sets up the central spiritual tension of the chapter. Balaam is being presented with a choice between obedience to God and the lucrative offer from Balak.
Numbers 22:12 in the Original Language
The blessing (bārak, בָּרַךְ) God pronounces on Israel is irrevocable and transcends mortal curse-making.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 22:12
What does Numbers 22:12 mean?
God forbids Balaam to join the delegation or curse Israel, because Israel is under divine blessing.
What is the context of Numbers 22:12?
God explicitly forbids Balaam to curse the blessed people of Israel.