Definition: And the LORD met Balaam, and put a word in his mouth, and said, Go again unto Balak, and say thus.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 23:16. It’s a really interesting and slightly unsettling passage about a confrontation between God and a man who was offering to curse the Israelites. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Balaam is a Priest: Balaam was a priest who was offering to curse Israel – meaning he was going to bring misfortune upon them. God Intervenes: God, in his wisdom (and sometimes with a bit of a nudge!), decides to intervene. He sends a word into Balaam’s mouth. The Word is a Command: The word God gives Balaam is: “Go again unto Balak, and say thus.” What does that really mean? It means that God tells Balaam to go to Balak (a man who was offering to curse Israel) and tell him to speak a specific message. The message is essentially: “Don’t curse Israel!” Why is this significant? This verse is often interpreted as a sign of God's judgment on Balaam, but it also has deeper theological meaning. Here are some possible interpretations: God’s Sovereignty: It shows that God is in control and doesn't allow people to do evil without Him. Avoiding Evil: It warns against the temptation to curse or harm others – a reminder of the importance of righteousness and kindness. A Test of Character: Perhaps God is testing Balaam’s character, pushing him to choose the right path. Important Note: The exact meaning behind this verse has been debated throughout history. It's a complex passage that invites us to think about God's power and our relationship with Him. --- To help me explain it even better for you, could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand from this verse? (Are you curious about the context, the meaning of the word "thus," or something else?)