Numbers 22:1

Introduction

The Israelites pitch in the plains of Moab, Num 22:1. Balak, king of Moab, is greatly terrified, Num 22:2-4; and sends to Balaam, a diviner, to come and curse them, Num 22:5, Num 22:6. The elders of Moab take a reward and carry it to Balaam, Num 22:7. He inquires of the Lord, and is positively ordered not to go with them, Num 22:8-12. He communicates this to the elders of Moab, Num 22:13. They return to Balak with this information, Num 22:14. He sends some of his princes to Balaam with promises of great honor, Num 22:15-17. He consults God, and is permitted! to go, on certain conditions, Num 22:18-20. Balaam sets off, is opposed by an angel of the Lord, and the Lord miraculously opens the mouth of his ass to reprove him, Num 22:21-30. Balaam sees the angel, and is reproved by him, Num 22:31-33. He humbles himself, and offers to go back, Num 22:34; but is ordered to proceed, on the same conditions as before, Num 22:35. The king of Moab goes out to meet him, Num 22:36. His address to him, Num 22:37. Balaam's firm answer, Num 22:38. Balak sacrifices, and takes Balaam to the high places of Baal, that he may see the whole of the Israelitish camp, Num 22:39-41.

Verse 1

And pitched in the plains of Moab - They had taken no part of the country that at present appertained to the Moabites; they had taken only that part which had formerly belonged to this people, but had been taken from them by Sihon, king of the Amorites.

On this side Jordan - On the east side. By Jericho, that is, over against it.
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