Numbers 22:20 Meaning and Explanation
“And God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, If the men come to call thee, rise up, and go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God permits Balaam to go with the delegation but warns him to speak only what God commands.
The Context of Numbers 22:20
God conditionally permits Balaam to journey with the delegation.
What Does Numbers 22:20 Mean?
God's second word to Balaam is permission, not prohibition. If the men call upon him in the morning, Balaam may go with them. However, the condition is absolute: whatever God says, that alone is what Balaam must speak.
This appears to be a conditional permission, or a test of Balaam's integrity. God is granting Balaam the liberty to journey, but reserving complete control over Balaam's words and actions. Balaam's role will be strictly as God's messenger.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 22:20
What does Numbers 22:20 mean?
God permits Balaam to go with the delegation but warns him to speak only what God commands.
What is the context of Numbers 22:20?
God conditionally permits Balaam to journey with the delegation.