Numbers 24:3-9
Summary for Num 24:3-9: 24:3-9 a The third oracle contains another description of God’s plan to bless Israel.Summary for Num 24:5-6: 24:5-6 b God’s love for his people was reflected in the blessings he showered upon them.
Summary for Num 24:6-7: 24:6-7 c The Lord’s favor is emphasized by the comparison of Israel’s situation with groves and gardens that have access to abundant water. Their growing population already reflected God’s blessing (24:7 d), as mentioned in 23:10 e. This would also become clear in the second registration (ch 26 f).
Summary for Num 24:7-9: 24:7b-9 g God’s blessing would enable the Israelites to overcome their enemies (see 24:15-24 h).
• Agag was an Amalekite king defeated by Saul (1 Sam 15:7-9 i, 32-33 j). The Amalekites, a desert people, were traditional enemies of the Hebrews (cp. Num 14:45 k; Exod 17:8-16 l), and it is likely that Agag was the traditional designation for their king. Since God brought Israel out of Egypt, he fought on their behalf, like a warrior and like a wild animal (ox and lion; Num 24:8-9 m).
• Blessed ... cursed: See Gen 12:3 n; 27:29 o.
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