Numbers 22:31 Meaning and Explanation
“Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God opens Balaam's eyes; he now sees the angel with a drawn sword and immediately prostrates himself.
The Context of Numbers 22:31
God opens Balaam's eyes to see the angel with drawn sword.
What Does Numbers 22:31 Mean?
At last, God grants Balaam perception. The eyes of his understanding are opened, and he sees the angel standing directly in his path, sword drawn. The sight is so overwhelming and terrifying that Balaam falls flat on his face in submission and fear.
The immediate contrast is striking: moments before, Balaam threatened to kill his faithful donkey in anger; now he prostrates himself before the angel in submission. The supernatural intervention has succeeded where all other warnings failed.
Numbers 22:31 in the Original Language
The opening of eyes (galah ayin, גָּלַה עַיִן) represents both physical sight and spiritual enlightenment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 22:31
What does Numbers 22:31 mean?
God opens Balaam's eyes; he now sees the angel with a drawn sword and immediately prostrates himself.
What is the context of Numbers 22:31?
God opens Balaam's eyes to see the angel with drawn sword.