Setting the Scene: The Beginning of Balaam’s Story

Q1 - King Balak made a decision without all the facts. How might this story have turned out differently had he known Moab had God’s protection?

A1 - If King Balak had known that Moab had God’s protection, he might not have sent for Balaam to come curse the Israelites. However, the Israelites would still have been exposed to the gods and culture of the Moabites and Midianites who lived on the plains of Moab near where they camped before crossing the Jordan into Canaan. After having lived apart from others in the wilderness for forty years, it would likely still have been a culture shock for the Israelites to be in close proximity of such vastly different people. However, the women of Moab and Midian may not have actively tried to seduce the Israelites as they did after Balaam told King Balak to have them do so.

Q2 - When has fear led you to make an unwise decision? What was the outcome?

A2 - Answers will vary. Acting out of fear can cause us to jump to unwise conclusions, sometimes with disastrous results.

Q3 - What does the term soothsayer mean? Do you think it differs from being a prophet? If so, how?

A3 - It may be helpful to look at how different Bible versions translate the word, soothsayer. For example, in Joshua 13:22 we are told Balaam was killed in battle by the Israelites. In that verse, the King James Version calls Balaam a soothsayer. Other versions say things like—he practiced divination, used magic to tell the future or used black magic, he had been a fortuneteller, or he was an omen reader. (Read the various Bible versions of this scripture at BibleHub.com.) All of these phrases describe someone who is trying to foretell the future or influence happenings in the future.

While prophets of God may have foretold or warned of what would happen in the future, they did so at God’s instruction. Soothsayers and those who practice various divining arts attempt to call upon spirits and forces other than those which are of God. That is why God warned the Israelites in Deuteronomy 18:10–13 that no diviners should be found among them. He also told them in the Ten Commandments they were to have no other gods but Him and that He is a jealous God (see Exodus 20:1–17 for the Ten Commandments). This article provides more information: “What does the Bible say about divination?”.

Chapter 1: King Balak Sends for Balaam

Numbers 22:1–21

Q1 - Did God really not know who the men were who came to Balaam in Numbers 22:9? Why do you think He asked Balaam this question?

A1 - It’s likely God asked this question in order to make Balaam verbalize what he had been asked to do, which was to cause harm to these people who had come out of Egypt. Hearing yourself say something often creates a higher level of comprehension than does simply hearing someone else say something. You have to hear the words, filter them through your brain, and formulate what you will say. Then when you speak the words, you hear with your own ears what comes out of your mouth. As one of the commentaries stated, this inquiry by God was “calculated to arouse the slumbering conscience of Balaam, and to open his eyes to a perception of his sin and of his danger” (Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers, Numbers 22:9).

Q2 - The second time Balak’s emissaries approached Balaam, why did he not immediately send them away rather than again inquiring of God?

A2 - Balaam already knew God’s answer in Numbers 22:12 from the first time he asked—Do not go with them! If he had truly believed God, he would have immediately turned away the second group of Balak’s officials and not made inquiry of God again. Yet, he did inquire again, which seems to indicate that he really wanted to go with them. Why would he want to go? Think of the boost to his reputation and to his ego if he were successful in cursing the Israelites, or even if something happened for which he could take credit that made him appear successful. And, if he could showcase his power, he could also increase his fee for his services! Power and money are great motivators and in all likelihood were what motivated Balaam to make his second inquiry of God.

The real question becomes why did God say “yes” the second time? Sometimes God gives in, not because He has changed His mind, but because people may be too stubborn to believe Him and need to go see for themselves. The discussion of wisdom in Proverbs 1:20–33 addresses this very issue. When people do not accept what wisdom tells them (or God’s advice) they are allowed to experience the result of their folly. “Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way, choking on their own schemes” (Proverbs 1:31 NLT).

Take the time to read the excerpt on wisdom in Proverbs 1:20–33. Other scriptures which address God’s allowing people to have their way even when they are on the wrong path are Psalm 81:11–12 and Jeremiah 2:19.

Q3 - What warning did God give the Israelites concerning divination and sorcery? (See Leviticus 19:26b, 31. See also what Moses will soon tell them in Deuteronomy 18:9–14.)

A3 -  In Leviticus 19:26, God warned the Israelites not to practice divination or sorcery. Then in verse 31, He told them not to turn to mediums or to seek out spiritists, for they would be defiled by them. In Deuteronomy 18:9–14, Moses went into more detail. His list included offering children in sacrifice, practicing divination or sorcery, interpreting omens, engaging in witchcraft, and casting spells. In addition, he stated that no one should be found among them who was a medium or spiritist or who consulted the dead. Other Bible versions include terms such as fortune telling, observing times, soothsaying, using enchantments, practicing augury, engaging in occult practices, and reciting charms.

Why are all these things condemned? Because people who turn to such things are turning to the wrong source. They are listening to or obeying or calling upon forces other than God. In the first two of His Ten Commandments, God made quite clear that He is to be the only God for His people. He is the only source. Furthermore, He is a jealous God, which means He shares the stage with no one. (See Exodus 20:1–17 for the Ten Commandments.)

The nations the Israelites were to conquer practiced many of these things. In Leviticus 20:26, God said He wanted His people to be holy to Him, for He had separated them from the other peoples. Then He stated In Leviticus 20:27 that anyone who was a medium or spiritist should be put to death; they should be stoned.

Undoubtedly, there are spirits and forces present in this world that are not of God. Paul warned in 2 Corinthians 11:14 that Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. John advised us in 1 John 4:1 not to believe every spirit, but to test the spirits to see if they are from God.

While we are no longer commanded to put mediums or spiritists to death under the New Covenant, Paul included sorcery or witchcraft with other works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19–21. Then he went on to state in verse 21 that those who practiced such things would not inherit the kingdom of God. In Revelation 21:8, sorcerers or those who practice the magic arts are grouped with those who will be in the lake of fire and sulfur, which is the second death.

Chapter 2: Balaam’s Donkey Talks Back

Numbers 22:22–35

Q1 - When Balaam finally sees the angel before him, he asks for forgiveness and offers to turn around and go back home. What did the angel tell Balaam? What point was God trying to make certain Balaam truly understood when He sent His angel to stop Balaam? Why do you think God found it necessary to reiterate His instructions in such a dramatic fashion?

A1 - The angel came to warn Balaam that he was on a “reckless” path before the Lord (Numbers 22:32 NIV). (Other versions say his way was “perverse” or “evil” in God’s sight.) After telling Balaam that he could only speak what God told him, the angel instructed Balaam to continue on his journey. Perhaps Balaam was already plotting a way in his heart to circumvent God’s instructions. At any rate, God wanted to make absolutely certain Balaam knew he could only speak what God told him.

Q2 - More than speaking words to Balaam, his donkey actually reasoned with him. Why didn’t Balaam find it astounding that his donkey was speaking to him? Why was he unable to immediately recognize God’s divine intervention in this situation? Have there been occurrences in your life where you were so focused on yourself and your needs that you failed to see the bigger picture?

A2 - It’s likely that Balaam’s extreme anger prevented him from thinking very rationally when his donkey spoke to him. He was so totally focused on his own self and his objective of continuing on his journey that he was blinded to what his donkey was indicating to him by avoiding the angel. Anger can be a very destructive force, not only to those who are on the receiving end, but to ourselves as well.

Q3 - Can you think of other examples of someone whose eyes were opened to see the spiritual world? A dramatic example is given in 2 Kings 6:8–23. Note particularly the happenings in verses 16–17.

A3 - In the account given in 2 Kings 6:8–23, the king of Aram was at war with Israel. Elisha, as a prophet of God, was able to warn the king of Israel as to the whereabouts of the Arameans. When the king of Aram found out that Elisha was doing this, he sent his forces to go capture him. His horses and chariots went by night and surrounded the city of Dothan where Elisha was staying.

When Elisha’s servant went outside the next morning, he saw the great army surrounding the city. He asked Elisha what they should do. Elisha told him not to be afraid and then asked God to open his servant’s eyes. The servant looked, and he saw that the hills were full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.

Elisha asked God to blind the enemy combatants and then led them into the city of Samaria. There, God opened their eyes to see where they were. The king of Israel evidently wished to kill them, but Elisha told him no. Instead, he told the king to give them food and water and send them back home.

The king prepared for them a great feast and then sent them back to their master. After that, the Arameans stopped raiding Israel’s territory. Elisha, by having the king of Israel do this, managed to defuse the entire situation.

Elisha’s words to his servant in 2 Kings 6:16 (NIV) are words we need to remember, particularly in times of distress: “‘Don’t be afraid,’ the prophet answered. ‘Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’”

Chapter 3: Balaam’s Oracles Begin

Numbers 22:36 – 23:12

Q1 - How many altars did God’s people usually erect in any one place? What would the plurality of altars that Balaam had built seem to indicate? What did the number seven symbolize to the Hebrews? This article provides more information: “What Does the Number 7 Mean in the Bible and Why is it Important?”.

A1 - Throughout the scriptures, it seems God’s people only built one altar at a time or in any given place. For example, when Noah came out of the ark, he built an altar to the Lord (see Genesis 8:20). Also, when Abraham was asked to sacrifice his son Isaac, he built an altar (see Genesis 22:9).

The pagans often built multiple altars for their many gods. Balaam seemed to be combining pagan worship with the worship of the one God of the Hebrews. While the number seven suggested completeness to the Hebrew people, several commentaries suggest it also was significant in pagan worship due to there being seven known planets. Maybe Balaam felt by having seven altars while calling upon the name of the Lord he would be able to cover all possible contingencies—Jehovah God as well the pagan gods.

Q2 - In Numbers 23:9 (NIV), Balaam observed the Israelites to be “a people who live apart and do not consider themselves one of the nations.” What commands did God give the Israelites concerning their relationships with other nations, particularly those who currently occupied Canaan? What reasons did God give for His commands? (See Deuteronomy 7:1–6.)

A2 - The Israelites were God’s chosen people and were not to adopt the ways of the inhabitants of Canaan. He specifically warned them to totally destroy these people. They were to make no treaties with them or show them any mercy. They were not to allow intermarriage with them, as they would turn their sons away from following God to serve other gods. Further, God instructed the Israelites to break down their altars, smash their sacred stones, cut down their Asherah poles, and burn their idols in the fire. In short, they were to eliminate all things associated with their pagan worship.

Q3 - What does the “dust of Jacob” refer to in Numbers 23:10?

A3 - The “dust of Jacob” seems to refer to God’s promise that He made to Abraham in Genesis 13:16 to make his offspring as numerous as the dust of the earth:

“The Lord said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, ‘Look around from where you are, to the north and south, to the east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever. I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted. Go, walk through the length and breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you’” (Genesis 13:14–17 NIV).

Looking down on that vast group of people, they were probably a sight to behold and from a distance could have resembled specks of dust.

Chapter 4: Balaam’s Second Oracle

Numbers 23:13–26

Q1 - In the New King James Version of the Bible, the passage in Numbers 23:21 reads like this: “‘He has not observed iniquity in Jacob, Nor has He seen wickedness in Israel. The Lord his God is with him, And the shout of a King is among them.’”

(Compare various other versions of Numbers 23:21 at BibleHub.com. Also at this site, you can read commentaries on this scripture.)

What sins had Israel committed since their deliverance from Egypt? Why did they have to wander in the wilderness for forty years before they could enter the Promised Land? In view of all the sins the Israelites had committed, what does this verse reveal about the character of God?

A1 - Here is the first part of Numbers 23:21 from the American Standard Version: “He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob; Neither hath he seen perverseness in Israel.” The Amplified Bible states it this way: “God has not observed wickedness in Jacob [for he is forgiven], Nor has He seen trouble in Israel.”

The Israelites committed many sins against God between when they were delivered from Egypt and the time this oracle was spoken. The following list is probably not inclusive:

Exodus 32 – the creation and worshipping of the golden calf, at which time 3,000 were killed.

Numbers 11:1–3 – The people complained about their hardships. God sent fire which burned among the people and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp. The scriptures do not state what the fire burned, if it were people, animals, or possessions.

Numbers 11:4–34 – The people craved other food. God sent quail and then struck them with a severe plague. That place was named Kibroth Hattaavah, which means graves of craving, because there they buried the people who craved other food.

Numbers 12 – Aaron and Miriam spoke against Moses because of his wife. They wanted recognition for God having spoken through them as well as through Moses. Miriam was struck with leprosy and had to stay outside the camp for seven days.

Numbers 14 – The people rebelled and refused to enter Canaan. The 10 spies who gave the negative report were struck down and died of a plague (Numbers 14:37). It was due to this rebellion that God sentenced the Israelites to wander in the wilderness for 40 years, one year for each day the spies had explored Canaan.

Numbers 16 – Korah’s rebellion – The ground split open and swallowed the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram and their households (however, the sons of Korah were spared – see Numbers 26:11). Fire came from the Lord and consumed the 250 men who had been Korah’s followers (Numbers 16:31–35).

Numbers 16:41–50 – The next day after Korah’s rebellion, the people grumbled against Moses and Aaron, claiming they had killed the Lord’s people. A plague ensued, killing 14,700 people in addition to those who had died because of Korah.

Numbers 21:4–9 – The people grew impatient and spoke against God and Moses. They complained because there was no water and said they detested the miserable food, meaning the manna. God sent venomous snakes among them and many died. Those who were bitten had to look upon the bronze snake which Moses made in order to live.

Numbers 25 – The Israelite men engaged in immoral behavior with the Moabite women and also joined in worshipping Baal. Because of this incident, 24,000 were killed.

As the above scriptures reveal, many of the Israelites were destroyed because of their sins. However those who repented and turned back to Him, He forgave. Of course, Moses instructed and admonished the people, and he frequently interceded on their behalf.

For God to proclaim in this oracle what He did concerning Jacob or Israel, we can conclude that He is a God who forgives, and He does so repeatedly. Thankfully for us today, our God is still a God who forgives.

Q2 - Again referring to Numbers 23:21, what does it mean, ‘“The LORD his God is with him, And the shout of a King is among them.’”?

A2 - It may help to read various Bible translations of this verse at BibleHub.

This is a blessed people. Their God is their king, and He is with them. They have His favor. Moreover, He defends them and provides them with security. They shout as a people who have been victorious over their enemies and who have the guidance and approval of their king.

Q3 - In Numbers 23:24, the Israelite people are likened to a lion and lioness. How does this comparison hold special meaning for God’s people? (See Genesis 49:9–12, Isaiah 31:4, Revelation 5:5.)

These articles discuss the meaning of the “lion of Judah:”

Who/what is the Lion of the tribe of Judah?

4 Powerful Reasons to Understand and Know Jesus as the Lion of Judah .

A3 - Although the tribe of Judah is not specifically mentioned here, the lion has traditionally been regarded as the symbol of the tribe of Judah. When Jacob blessed his sons from his deathbed, he referred to his son, Judah, in much the same was as the oracle of Balaam referred to the Israelites here in Numbers 23:24. Jacob said of Judah in Genesis 49:9 (NIV): “You are a lion’s cub, Judah; you return from the prey, my son. Like a lion he crouches and lies down, like a lioness—who dares to rouse him?”

The tribe of Judah became a very large tribe. In the second census in Numbers 26, their men who were able to fight in the army numbered more than any other tribe (unless you combine the totals of Ephraim and Manasseh, who were the sons of Joseph). Upon the death of Joshua, there was no leader to succeed him. God charged the men of the tribe of Judah to go first and lead the fight against the Canaanites (see Judges 1:1–2). King David and his son, King Solomon, were from the tribe of Judah. Later, Jesus would come through the lineage of Judah.

Chapter 5: Oracle Number Three

Numbers 23:27 – 24:13

Q1 - How do we know that Balaam understood the words he was prophesying? (See Numbers 24:3–4.)

A1 - Balaam stated in both his third and fourth oracles that he saw clearly and his eyes were opened. He heard the words of God, and he saw a vision from the Almighty. He fell prostrate, which would indicate he acknowledged God’s power and authority. In his fourth oracle, he stated in Numbers 24:15–16 that he not only heard the words of God, but he also had knowledge from the Most High. By Balaam’s own admission, he understood the words he was speaking.

Q2 - In Numbers 24:2, the scriptures state that Balaam looked out and saw Israel camped according to their tribes. Then he described the tents of Jacob in verses 5–6. How were the Israelites to arrange their camp? What should the orderly arrangement of such an enormous group of people and animals have indicated to both Balaam and Balak? What would you think if you had looked down upon their encampment?

(See the second and third chapters of Numbers for a description of the Israelite camp. This article presents a description and drawing of how their camp was to be set up: “Encampment of the Tribes of Israel in the Wilderness” - tinyurl.com/jf893s23. Be sure to scroll down for the drawing of the camp.)

A2 - God had provided a plan for organizing this massive group of people and animals. Rather than being an undefined horde, the Israelite camp was arranged according to the pattern God had presented. Each tribe camped together under their own banner in a designated area. The level of organization of their camp should have indicated to Balaam and Balak this was no ordinary group of people.

Q3 - While describing the Israelites in Numbers 24:8–9, how did God again give a warning to Balak and Balaam?

A3- In both his second and third oracles, Balaam stated that God had brought these people out of Egypt and they had the strength of a wild ox (Numbers 23:22 and Numbers 24:8). So, not only did these people themselves have great strength, but their God had the power to withstand the great Egyptian Pharaoh and his army in order to deliver them from slavery.

Balaam further stated in Numbers 24:8b that the Israelites devour hostile nations, breaking their bones in pieces and piercing them with arrows. Then in Numbers 24:9, the Israelites were are again likened to a lion, a crouching lioness. A wise person would not want to rouse a people so powerful. By His oracles, God warned Balaam and Balak, as well as other nations, not to act against His people.

Chapter 6: The Fourth Oracle of Balaam

Numbers 24:14–19

Q1 - In what ways do Moab and Edom represent evil? How can they be seen as adversaries of the church which Christ established?

A1 - Moab was a son of Lot, the nephew of Abraham. Edom was the land of Esau, the twin brother of Jacob, or Israel. Both the Moabites and the Edomites did not treat the Israelites well even though they were near relatives. Even worse, they worshipped false gods, with the Moabites actively enticing the Israelite men to not only engage in sexual immorality but also to worship their vile god, Baal, in Numbers 25.

The book of Obadiah, which is only one chapter long, contains prophecy concerning Edom. Here, their total destruction is foretold. They had committed acts of violence against their brother, Jacob (verse 10). They had stood aloof while strangers carried off the Israelites’ wealth (verse 11). They looked down upon their brethren in the day of their misfortune, rejoiced in the day of their destruction, and boasted in the day of their trouble (verse 12). They seized their wealth in the day of their disaster, waited at the crossroads to cut down their fugitives, and handed over their survivors in the day of their trouble (verses 13–14).

Both the Moabites and Edomites had acted treacherously toward the Israelites, and they both worshipped false gods. Their worship and their deeds ran counter to what Jesus would later teach in regard to how to treat one another, and most importantly, how to worship and honor Jehovah God.

Q2 - In Acts 13:16–26, the Apostle Paul gives a brief summary of the history of Israel in which he explains the connection between King David and Jesus, the Messiah. Then, a few verses later, in Acts 13: 32–37, Paul goes on to state that Jesus fulfilled the promise God made to David. What contrast does he make between David and Jesus in verses 36–37? What is the difference between their kingdoms?

A2 - King David was an earthly ruler. After he had lived his life, he died. His body was buried and decayed in its grave. Even though God described him as a man after His own heart in Acts 13:22 and David accomplished what God had set out for him to do, at the end of his life he died. His kingdom passed to his son, Solomon, but in time it diminished. At one point, the Hebrews were carried off into Babylonian captivity. Even though they were able to return later, their kingdom never recovered its former size or glory.

Jesus was a direct descendant of David. He fulfilled the promise God had made to David centuries earlier in 2 Samuel 7:16 (NIV). He established an everlasting, spiritual kingdom, one that would never be diminished as David’s had been. Like David, Jesus accomplished what God had set out for Him to do, and He died. However, His body did not decay, and He did not stay in the grave.

Moreover, what Jesus accomplished was far superior to what David had done. With Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, He ushered in a New Covenant through which believers would be able to attain forgiveness of sins. This had not been possible under the Law of Moses, which had been in effect during the time of David.

Q3 - How were stars used in ancient times (and still today, on occasion)? How was the star a fitting symbol for the Messiah? How can we be like stars today? (See Philippians 2:15 and Daniel 12:3.)

A3 - Stars were often used for navigational purposes when people were traveling. In the northern hemisphere, the North Star (or Polaris) helped point the way north, and in the southern hemisphere, the Southern Cross could be used to determine the direction south. Of course, the stars can still be used today, provided the skies are dark enough to allow them to be seen.

When the Messiah, Jesus Christ, came to earth, He served as a bright and shining star to guide us. He pointed, and continues to point, the way to the Father.

We can also serve as stars to others to help point the way to the Father. The Apostle Paul urged us in Philippians 2:14–16 (NIV): “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.”

In the book of Daniel, the explanation of his vision of the end times included this beautiful statement (Daniel 12:2–3, NIV): “‘Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.’”

Chapter 7: The Final Three Oracles of Balaam

Numbers 24:20–25

Q1 - Centuries later, God revealed the future kingdoms of the world to another pagan king, Nebuchadnezzar, who carried the Israelites off into Babylonian captivity. In his dream, how was the coming of Christ described? Read the account of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream in Daniel 2. This article discusses the dream: “What is the meaning of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream in Daniel 2?” (tinyurl.com/yjmyzfsc).

A1 - Sometime after Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, had carried the Israelites off into Babylonian captivity, he had a dream that disturbed him greatly. Rather than telling his dream to the magicians, astrologers, and other wise men, he demanded that they first tell him the contents of his dream. That way, he would know that whoever interpreted his dream truly had spiritual insight. When no one could tell him his dream, he called for the death of all the wise men in the country.

When the king’s men came to execute Daniel and his friends, who were known as being wise men, Daniel asked for some time to interpret the king’s dream. Then he and his friends prayed to God, and the meaning of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream was revealed to him. Daniel went to the king and explained his dream. He told him that God had shown King Nebuchadnezzar what would happen in the days to come (Daniel 2:27–28).

Daniel described a magnificent statue that Nebuchadnezzar had seen in his dream. There were four parts to the statue—the head, the chest and arms, the belly and thighs, and the legs and feet. Daniel explained that each part represented a major kingdom which would rule the known world, with Nebuchadnezzar’s being first. His kingdom was the head of the statue. After him would come three other kingdoms. Then in Daniel 2:34–35 (NIV), Daniel told the king, “‘While you were watching, a rock was cut out, but not by human hands. It struck the statue on its feet of iron and clay and smashed them.’” He explained that, because of the rock, the statue was broken to bits, and the wind blew the pieces away without a trace. “‘But,’ Daniel continued, ‘the rock that struck the statue became a huge mountain and filled the whole earth.’”

As Daniel explained the interpretation of the king’s dream, he told him what would happen after the fourth kingdom in Daniel 2:44–45 (NIV).

“‘In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever. This is the meaning of the vision of the rock cut out of a mountain, but not by human hands—a rock that broke the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver and the gold to pieces.’”

So, we see in Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, God again revealed the coming of Christ to a pagan king. In his dream, Christ was described as the rock which smashed the other kingdoms to bits and became a huge mountain which filled the whole earth. His kingdom would be one that endured forever.

Q2 - God can work through anyone He choses. That does not mean, however, that God endorses or approves of that person. How did God work through Pharaoh when delivering the Israelites from Egyptian slavery? (See Exodus 9:16 and Romans 9:17.)

A2 - God explained in Exodus 9:13–19 that He could have stretched out His hand and struck Pharaoh and his people with a plague that would have wiped them off the earth. Instead, God allowed Pharaoh to continue to resist Him in order that His mighty power could be displayed and His name proclaimed in all the earth. God had raised Pharaoh up for this very purpose.

Pharaoh did indeed resist God, and through Moses and Aaron, God worked a series of ten spectacular miracles in the form of plagues. This display of God’s might sent a powerful message to the pagan world. The Egyptians worshipped a multitude of false gods, none of whom could perform such miracles. God, with His great might, proved all their gods to be imposters. God’s miracles were also for the benefit of the Israelites. He wanted them to know that He was the true God who was acting on their behalf to deliver them from Egyptian slavery.

Q3 - A little later in the history of the Israelites, Ruth from the land of Moab would come with her mother-in-law, Naomi, to live in Israel. What part would she play in the coming of Christ? What does her life say about the inclination of a person’s heart versus his or her heritage? (See the book of Ruth for her story. Ruth 4:13–22 gives the lineage which came from her.)

A3 - During the study of Balaam, we have seen how God became displeased with the Moabites. Their king, Balak, sent for Balaam to curse the Israelites. Then, because of Balaam’s counsel, the Moabite women later enticed the Israelite men to engage in immoral behavior and also to worship Baal.

In Deuteronomy 23:3–6 (NIV), God declared:

“No Ammonite or Moabite or any of their descendants may enter the assembly of the Lord, not even in the tenth generation. For they did not come to meet you with bread and water on your way when you came out of Egypt, and they hired Balaam son of Beor from Pethor in Aram Naharaim to pronounce a curse on you. However, the Lord your God would not listen to Balaam but turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the Lord your God loves you. Do not seek a treaty of friendship with them as long as you live.”

The story of Ruth happens a little later in the history of the Israelites. Naomi, along with her husband and two sons, had gone to the land of Moab to live because of a famine in Judah. While there, her husband died. Her two sons married Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth, but then both her sons died some time later.

When Ruth heard that the famine in her country had finally ended, she decided to return home. She told her two daughters-in-law to go back to their families so they could find other husbands. Orpah did return, but Ruth vowed to stay with Naomi. Ruth accompanied Naomi to Judah where she found favor with Boaz, who took her for his wife. Ruth became the mother of Obed, who became the father of Jesse, who became the father of David. David was the father of King Solomon, and on through their lineage came the Messiah, Jesus Christ.

Ruth, although she was a Moabitess, because of her love and devotion to her mother-in-law, became an integral part of the lineage of Christ. God did not hold her heritage against her, but rather placed her in a position of great honor. Ruth had a kind and loving heart, and God, who knows the hearts of people, rewarded her greatly.

Chapter 8: The Seduction of Israel

Numbers 25

Q1 - What were the first two of God’s Ten Commandments? What does it mean that God is a jealous God? See Exodus 20:1–6.

A1 - The first of the Ten Commandments which God gave was to have no other gods before Him, and the second was to not create an idol to worship (see Exodus 20:1–6). Together, these two commandments cover other gods of any type, whether a spiritual being, a living person, or a physical object. God wanted His people to worship and follow only Him! So important was this precept that God presented it in two commands and placed them at the top of His list. His being a jealous God follows right along with these commands, meaning He shares the stage with no one.

Q2 - When was another time that the Israelites let their focus be diverted and worshipped a false god? What happened as a result? See Exodus 32.

A2 - Exodus 32 tells of the incident with the golden calf. Moses had gone up on Mount Sinai to receive God’s Law and stayed for forty days. During this time, the people grew impatient. They said they didn’t know what had become of Moses, and they essentially abandoned God. They told Aaron to make a god to go before them and gave him their gold jewelry. From this, Aaron created an idol for them and fashioned it in the shape of a calf.

When Moses came back down the mountain and saw what they had done, he threw down the two stone tablets on which God had inscribed the Ten Commandments, breaking them to pieces at the foot of the mountain (Exodus 32:19). Moses instructed those who were for the Lord to come to him, and the Levites responded. He then had the Levites go throughout the camp and kill with their swords those who had sinned. As a result, about 3,000 people died that day (Exodus 32:26–28). Additionally, God struck the people with a plague because of what they had done (Exodus 32:35). It is unknown whether the people suffered some physical malady or if they died due to this plague.

Because the people had abandoned God, He told them to leave Mount Sinai and go on to the land He had promised Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (see Exodus 33). But, He told them, He would not go with them. He would send an angel to drive out the residents of Canaan. The people mourned when they heard that God would not be with going with them. Moses was able to intercede on their behalf, and God then agreed to accompany them.

Q3 - The sins that the Israelites committed in Numbers 25 remind us that we often cause the greatest harm to ourselves. What did Jesus have to say about this in Matthew 15:1–20? (A parallel account is given in Mark 7:1–23.)

A3 - In His teachings, Jesus told the people that whatever they eat does not make them unclean. This offended the Pharisees who did not eat certain things according to teachings in the Old Law. Jesus explained that whatever they put into their mouths would eventually be eliminated by the body. Rather, it was what came out of their mouths that made them unclean. That’s because whatever comes out of the mouth comes from the heart. Out of the heart comes evil thoughts that lead to sin, such as murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander, and the like.

Chapter 9: Taking Vengeance on the Midianites

Numbers 31:1–18; Joshua 13:15–23

Q1 -The Israelites had lived apart from other people since they left Egypt. What do you think it was like for them when they arrived on the plains of Moab with all these other people and gods? What did God instruct them to do when they entered Canaan? See Deuteronomy 7:1–6.

A1 - The Israelites had likely had little contact with other people all during their wilderness wanderings. They had been out caring for their herds and flocks and living off the manna and what other native vegetation and animals they may have found. When they arrived on the plains of Moab with all the other people there, it may have been similar to someone who has always lived in the country going to Las Vegas. The sights, the sounds, the smells, the food, the strange gods and rituals—all these things were likely overwhelming to their senses.

God was very direct in His instructions to the Israelites as to what they were to do when they entered Canaan. Deuteronomy 7:1–6 (NIV) states:

“When the Lord your God brings you into the land you are entering to possess and drives out before you many nations—the Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites, seven nations larger and stronger than you—and when the Lord your God has delivered them over to you and you have defeated them, then you must destroy them totally. Make no treaty with them, and show them no mercy. Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons, for they will turn your children away from following me to serve other gods, and the Lord’s anger will burn against you and will quickly destroy you. This is what you are to do to them: Break down their altars, smash their sacred stones, cut down their Asherah poles and burn their idols in the fire. For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.”

Q2 - The king of Moab was the one who had initially sought to have the Israelites cursed. Yet, God did not declare war upon the Moabites as he did the Midianites. However, in what other ways did God punish the Moabites? See Deuteronomy 23:3–6.

A2 - The Moabites were also punished in several ways. No Ammonite or Moabite (both of these were the descendants of Lot, the nephew of Abraham) could enter the assembly of the Lord. These people were relatives of the Israelites, yet they had behaved inhospitably. They did not meet the Israelites with food and water on their way out of Egypt and went so far as to hire Balaam to curse them. Moreover, the Israelites were instructed to never seek their peace or good relations with them all their lives.

Q3 - Did Moses and the Israelites know at the time it was happening that Balak was trying to curse them? Did they know about Balaam’s oracles concerning them? If they had known about the oracles, do you think they would have stood any stronger against the temptations presented to them? When you know that someone else loves you and has great confidence in you, how does that help you meet life’s challenges?

A3 - It’s unknown if the Israelites knew about Balak hiring Balaam to curse them at the time it was occurring. If they had known all the wonderful things God said about them, it might have influenced at least some of the people who went on to sin so egregiously. However, the Israelites had witnessed numerous miracles. Some of these miracles were God’s direct expression of His love and care for them, such as providing them manna to eat and water at various times while traveling through desolate areas.

As for us today, expressing your love and confidence in someone else can sometimes make a real difference in their lives. Make it a point to do so when you have the opportunity. As Proverbs 25:11 (KJV) reminds us, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.”

Chapter 10: Wrapping It Up: The Second Census

Numbers 26

Q1 – Why were only the men who were counted in the first census the ones condemned to die in the wilderness during the forty years of wandering?

A1 - Those who were counted in the census were the men age 20 and above who were able to serve in the army of Israel. Women, children, and those from the tribe of Levi were not counted, as they were not the ones who would be expected to go to battle. Also, it’s likely there were men who were not counted due to being unable to serve in the army, for example, those with disabilities or the elderly.

The army of Israel would have been the ones responsible for initially entering Canaan and fighting the inhabitants in order to conquer the land. Therefore, they were the ones condemned to die in the wilderness because they were the ones who failed to go into battle. There were probably women and Levites who were part of the exodus from Egypt who lived long enough to enter Canaan.

Q2 – In the second census, several tribes saw a decline in their count as compared to the first census. What could have caused these tribes to have fewer men age 20 and over who were able to fight in the army in the second census? How many times during their wilderness journeys were people killed for their rebellion or disobedience? How did this affect their numbers in the second census?

A2 - The tribes who had fewer men counted in the second census could have had more female births than males. Also, they could have had more men killed during the times that God punished them while wandering in the wilderness (see the list below). The more men a tribe lost in these incidents, the fewer their offspring would be, which would mean a decrease in the younger generation.

God instructed in Numbers 1:1–3 that the first census was to be taken after the Israelites had been in the desert of Sinai for a little over a year (on the first day of the second month in the second year). That means the incident with the creation and worshipping of the golden calf must have happened prior to the first census being taken. In that incident, 3,000 were killed (Exodus 32:27–28).

Other times after the first census was taken when the Israelite people were killed due to God’s discipline include the following:

Numbers 11:1–3 – The people complained about their hardships. God sent fire which burned among the people and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp. It’s not clear whether people were killed or only their possessions or possibly animals were destroyed.

Numbers 11:4–34 – The people craved other food, so God sent quail. The Lord’s anger burned against the people, and He struck them with a severe plague. The place was named Kibroth Hattaavah, which means graves of craving, because there they buried the people who craved other food. The number of people who died was not given.

Numbers 14 – The people rebelled and refused to enter Canaan. The 10 spies who gave the negative report were struck down and died of a plague (Numbers 14:37). It was due to this rebellion that God sentenced the Israelites to wander in the wilderness for 40 years, one year for each day the spies had explored Canaan.

Numbers 16 – Korah’s rebellion – The ground split open and swallowed the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram and their households (however, the sons of Korah were spared - see Numbers 26:11). Fire came from the Lord and consumed the 250 men who had been Korah’s followers (Numbers 16:31–35).

Numbers 16:41–50 – The next day after Korah’s rebellion, the people grumbled against Moses and Aaron, claiming they had killed the Lord’s people. A plague ensued, killing 14,700 people in addition to those who had died because of Korah.

Numbers 21:4–9 – The people grew impatient and spoke against God and Moses. They complained because there was no water and said they detested the miserable food, meaning the manna. God sent venomous snakes among them and many died, but the number of people killed was not given. Those who were bitten had to look upon the bronze snake which Moses made in order to live.

Numbers 25 – The Israelite men engaged in immoral behavior with the Moabite women and also joined in worshipping Baal. Because of this incident, 24,000 were killed.

Q3 – When Jacob or Israel gave his blessings to his sons in Genesis 49:5–7, what did he say concerning Simeon and Levi? Why did he say this? (See Genesis 34.) How was his blessing fulfilled? (See Deuteronomy 18:1–2 and Joshua 19:1–9) This article discusses “How was God Himself the inheritance of the Levites? (tinyurl.com/59p52tz9).

A3 - Jacob said Simeon and Levi would be scattered and dispersed among his other descendants. He proclaimed this for them because of the violence and anger they had exhibited during their lives. One specific incident occurred in Genesis 34 when their sister, Dinah, was violated  by Shechem, the son of Hamor, the Hivite and ruler of that area. Shechem loved Dinah and wanted her as his wife, so his father went to talk with Jacob and asked him to name the bride price. Jacob’s sons, however, declared that their sister could not marry someone who had not been circumcised. They stated that the only way Hamor and his people could intermarry with the Israelites would be if all the males agreed to be circumcised. Hamer and his son talked to their fellow townsmen, and they all agreed. Every male in the city was circumcised.

Three days later, when the men were still in pain, Simeon and Levi took their swords and attacked the city, killing every male. They took their sister from Shechem’s house and left. Then the sons of Jacob came and looted the city. They seized their animals and carried off all their wealth, along with all the women and children.

Jacob told Simeon and Levi they had brought trouble upon him and caused him to be a stench to the Canaanites and Perizzites who lived in the land. If these people joined forces and attacked, Jacob told them that he and his household, who were much fewer in number, would be destroyed.

As for the dispersement of the two tribes, Simeon’s numbers had dwindled and was the smallest tribe at the time of the second census which was taken right before the Israelites crossed into Canaan. Their tribe was allotted space within the tribe of Judah. Judah’s portion was more than they needed, so the Simonites received their inheritance within the territory of Judah (see Joshua 19:1–9). If you look on a map of the tribes, you can see that Simeon was completely surrounded by Judah.

See https://www.britannica.com/topic/Simeon-Hebrew-tribe

The tribe of Levi became dispersed among the other tribes, as they were the tribe of the priests. They received no defined land inheritance of their own, as God was their inheritance. They did receive part of the food that was brought in offering to the Lord (see Deuteronomy 18:1–8). They also received 48 cities that were spread among the other tribes, six of which were designated as cities of refuge (see Numbers 35:1–8).

Even though the Levites were dispersed among the other tribes, they were honored. Twice they had demonstrated their zeal for the Lord. When Moses came back down Mount Sinai and found the golden calf, the Levites rallied to his side. They went through the camp and executed the offenders. Because of that, the Lord blessed the Levites (see Exodus 32:25–29). Then, when Phinehas saw the Israelite man with the Midianite woman in the camp, he was zealous for the honor of his God and killed them both with his spear. Because of his action, God’s anger was assuaged, and the plague against the Israelites was stopped. God made a covenant of a lasting priesthood with him (see Numbers 25:6–13). Before Moses died, he included the tribe of Levi in his blessings but failed to even mention the tribe of Simeon (see Deuteronomy 33).