Numbers 22:37 Meaning and Explanation
“And Balak said unto Balaam, Did I not earnestly send unto thee to call thee? wherefore camest thou not unto me? am I not able indeed to promote thee to honour?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Balak asks why Balaam delayed and reminds him of Balak's power to grant him honor.
The Context of Numbers 22:37
Balak questions Balaam's delay and emphasizes his power to reward.
What Does Numbers 22:37 Mean?
Balak's greeting is tinged with reproach. He emphasizes his urgent calls and Balaam's initial refusals. He then poses a rhetorical question: is he not able to grant honor? This is a subtle reminder that Balaam stood to gain tremendously.
Balak is trying to reassure Balaam and set a positive tone for their negotiation, but his words also contain a subtle implication: Balaam should now fulfill his part of the implicit bargain by cursing Israel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 22:37
What does Numbers 22:37 mean?
Balak asks why Balaam delayed and reminds him of Balak's power to grant him honor.
What is the context of Numbers 22:37?
Balak questions Balaam's delay and emphasizes his power to reward.