New International VersionNow I am going back to my people, but come, let me warn you of what this people will do to your people in days to come.”
New Living TranslationNow I am returning to my own people. But first let me tell you what the Israelites will do to your people in the future.”
English Standard VersionAnd now, behold, I am going to my people. Come, I will let you know what this people will do to your people in the latter days.”
Berean Standard BibleNow I am going back to my people, but come, let me warn you what this people will do to your people in the days to come.”
King James BibleAnd now, behold, I go unto my people: come therefore, and I will advertise thee what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days.
New King James VersionAnd now, indeed, I am going to my people. Come, I will advise you what this people will do to your people in the latter days.”
New American Standard BibleSo now, behold, I am going to my people; come, and I will advise you of what this people will do to your people in the days to come.”
NASB 1995“And now, behold, I am going to my people; come, and I will advise you what this people will do to your people in the days to come.”
NASB 1977“And now behold, I am going to my people; come, and I will advise you what this people will do to your people in the days to come.”
Legacy Standard BibleSo now, behold, I am going to my people; come, and I will advise you what this people will do to your people in the last days.”
Amplified BibleAnd now, look, I am going to my people; come, I will advise you as to what this people [Israel] will do to your people [Moab] in the days to come.”
Christian Standard BibleNow I am going back to my people, but first, let me warn you what these people will do to your people in the future.”
Holman Christian Standard BibleNow I am going back to my people, but first, let me warn you what these people will do to your people in the future.”
American Standard VersionAnd now, behold, I go unto my people: come, and I will advertise thee what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days.
Contemporary English VersionSo I'm going back home, but I'm leaving you with a warning about what the Israelites will someday do to your nation."
English Revised VersionAnd now, behold, I go unto my people: come, and I will advertise thee what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationEven though I'm going back to my people, I'll give you some advice. I'll tell you what these people will do to your people in the days to come."
Good News TranslationBalaam said to Balak, "Now I am going back to my own people, but before I go, I am warning you what the people of Israel will do to your people in the future."
International Standard VersionMeanwhile, since I have to return to my people, come and listen while I tell you what this people will be doing to your people in the last days."
NET BibleAnd now, I am about to go back to my own people. Come now, and I will advise you as to what this people will do to your people in the future."
New Heart English BibleNow, look, I go to my people: come, I will inform you what this people shall do to your people in the latter days."
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd now, behold, I go to my people: come therefore, I will advertise thee what this people will do to thy people in the latter days. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleNow I am going back to my people, but come, let me warn you what this people will do to your people in the days to come.”
World English BibleNow, behold, I go to my people. Come, I will inform you what this people shall do to your people in the latter days.” Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd now, behold, I am going to my people; come, I counsel you [concerning] that which this people does to your people in the latter end of the days.”
Young's Literal Translation and, now, lo, I am going to my people; come, I counsel thee concerning that which this people doth to thy people, in the latter end of the days.'
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd now, behold me going to my people: come, I will advise thee what this people will do to thy people in the last of the days. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleBut yet going to my people, I will give thee counsel, what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days.
Catholic Public Domain VersionYet truly, as I continue on to my own people, I will give you counsel as to what this people shall do to your people in the end times.”
New American Bible“But now that I am about to go to my own people, let me warn you what this people will do to your people in the days to come.”
New Revised Standard VersionSo now, I am going to my people; let me advise you what this people will do to your people in days to come.” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd now, behold. I am going to my land; come, therefore, and I will give you counsel what this people shall do to your people in the latter days.
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedNow behold, I shall go myself to my land; but come, I shall advise you what this people does to your people in the end of days.” OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And now, behold, I go unto my people; come, and I will announce to thee what this people shall do to thy people in the end of days.'
Brenton Septuagint TranslationAnd now, behold, I return to my place; come, I will advise thee of what this people shall do to thy people in the last days.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Balak Dismisses Balaam… 13that even if Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not do anything of my own accord, good or bad, to go beyond the command of the LORD? I will speak whatever the LORD says. 14NowI am going backto my people,but come,let me warn youwhatthispeoplewill doto your peoplein the daysto come.”
Cross References Genesis 49:1Then Jacob called for his sons and said, “Gather around so that I can tell you what will happen to you in the days to come:
Deuteronomy 31:29For I know that after my death you will become utterly corrupt and turn from the path I have commanded you. And in the days to come, disaster will befall you because you will do evil in the sight of the LORD to provoke Him to anger by the work of your hands.”
Isaiah 2:2In the last days the mountain of the house of the LORD will be established as the chief of the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and all nations will stream to it.
Micah 4:1In the last days the mountain of the house of the LORD will be established as the chief of the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and the peoples will stream to it.
Daniel 2:28But there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in the latter days. Your dream and the visions that came into your mind as you lay on your bed were these:
Daniel 10:14Now I have come to explain to you what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision concerns those days.”
Isaiah 11:10On that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples. The nations will seek Him, and His place of rest will be glorious.
Isaiah 60:3Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.
Jeremiah 23:20The anger of the LORD will not turn back until He has fully accomplished the purposes of His heart. In the days to come you will understand this clearly.
Jeremiah 30:24The fierce anger of the LORD will not turn back until He has fully accomplished the purposes of His heart. In the days to come you will understand this.
Ezekiel 38:16You will advance against My people Israel like a cloud covering the land. It will happen in the latter days, O Gog, that I will bring you against My land, so that the nations may know Me when I show Myself holy in you before their eyes.
Matthew 2:2asking, “Where is the One who has been born King of the Jews? We saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.”
Matthew 24:14And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
Luke 1:78-79because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the Dawn will visit us from on high, / to shine on those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”
John 1:9The true Light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
Treasury of Scripture And now, behold, I go to my people: come therefore, and I will advertise you what this people shall do to your people in the latter days. Numbers 24:3,4 And he took up his parable, and said, Balaam the son of Beor hath said, and the man whose eyes are open hath said: … Numbers 23:7,18 And he took up his parable, and said, Balak the king of Moab hath brought me from Aram, out of the mountains of the east,saying, Come, curse me Jacob, and come, defy Israel… Job 27:1 Moreover Job continued his parable, and said, Jump to Previous AdmonishAdvertiseAdviseAnnounceClearCounselEndLatterWarnJump to Next AdmonishAdvertiseAdviseAnnounceClearCounselEndLatterWarnNumbers 24 1.Balaam, leaving divinations, prophesies the happiness of Israel10.Balak, in anger, dismisses him15.He prophesies of the Star of Jacob, and the destruction of some nationsNow I am going back to my peopleThis phrase is spoken by Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, who was hired by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. Despite his intentions, Balaam is compelled by God to bless Israel instead. The phrase indicates Balaam's departure from the Moabites, returning to his homeland, likely in Mesopotamia. This reflects the transient nature of his mission and the divine intervention that redirected his purpose. Balaam's acknowledgment of returning to his people suggests a separation from the events concerning Israel, highlighting the distinct path God has for His chosen people. but come, let me warn you
Balaam, despite being unable to curse Israel, offers a prophetic warning to Balak. This indicates a shift from his initial role as a hired diviner to a messenger of God's revelation. The use of "warn" suggests an impending danger or significant future event that Balak should heed. This moment underscores the sovereignty of God in using even those outside of Israel to communicate His plans and purposes. It also reflects the biblical theme of God revealing His will through unexpected means and individuals. what this people will do to your people
"This people" refers to the Israelites, while "your people" refers to the Moabites and their allies. Balaam's prophecy is a foretelling of the future dominance and victories of Israel over the surrounding nations. This aligns with God's promises to Abraham regarding his descendants' inheritance of the land and their triumph over adversaries. The phrase foreshadows the eventual conquests during the time of Joshua and the establishment of Israel in the Promised Land. It also serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. in the days to come.
This phrase points to future events, indicating that the fulfillment of Balaam's prophecy will occur over time. It suggests a long-term perspective, encompassing not only immediate victories but also the eventual establishment of Israel as a significant nation. The "days to come" can be seen as a reference to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, which includes the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, from the line of Israel. This prophetic outlook emphasizes the continuity of God's promises and the ultimate realization of His kingdom purposes through Israel. Persons / Places / Events 1. BalaamA non-Israelite prophet who was hired by Balak to curse Israel but ended up blessing them instead, as God directed him. 2. BalakThe king of Moab who feared the Israelites and sought Balaam's help to curse them. 3. MoabA nation located east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel. 4. IsraelitesThe people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were journeying to the Promised Land. 5. ProphecyBalaam's final oracle, which foretells the future of Israel and its impact on other nations. Teaching Points God's SovereigntyGod's plans cannot be thwarted by human intentions. Balaam's prophecies, despite Balak's desires, align with God's will for Israel. The Power of ProphecyProphecy serves as a warning and a guide. Balaam's words were meant to prepare and inform both Israel and Moab of God's future plans. Faithfulness to God's WordBalaam's account reminds us of the importance of speaking truthfully and faithfully, even when pressured to do otherwise. The Impact of God's PeopleThe prophecy highlights the influence and role of God's people in the world, encouraging believers to live in a way that reflects God's purposes. Warnings and ObedienceHeeding warnings from God is crucial. Balaam's prophecy serves as a reminder to listen and respond to God's guidance. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Numbers 24:14?
2.How does Numbers 24:14 foreshadow future events in biblical prophecy?
3.What lessons can we learn from Balaam's prophecy in Numbers 24:14?
4.How does Numbers 24:14 connect with other prophecies about Israel's future?
5.How can we apply Balaam's insights from Numbers 24:14 to our lives today?
6.What does Numbers 24:14 teach about God's sovereignty over nations and history?
7.What is the significance of Balaam's prophecy in Numbers 24:14 for Israel's future?
8.How does Numbers 24:14 relate to the concept of messianic prophecy?
9.Why does Balaam, a non-Israelite, deliver a prophecy in Numbers 24:14?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Numbers 24?
11.What is the bright morning star?
12.What does the Bible say about the end times?
13.Why does Daniel 12:11-12 specify two different periods (1,290 days and 1,335 days) without a clear explanation for the discrepancy?
14.How could a small Aramean force defeat Judah's army (2 Chronicles 24:24) if military records and common sense suggest larger forces usually prevail?What Does Numbers 24:14 Mean Now I am going back to my people• Balaam acknowledges the end of his hired mission. He will return to his homeland empty-handed, since the LORD denied Balak’s request for a curse (Numbers 23:11–12). • His words echo earlier moments when God prevented him from altering Israel’s blessing (Numbers 22:35). • God’s overruling shows His covenant faithfulness; He protects His people even when enemies scheme (Deuteronomy 23:4–5).
but come• Although finished with Balak’s payments, Balaam still invites the king to listen. This pause signals something weighty is about to be shared, not for profit but out of prophetic obligation (1 Kings 22:13–14). • The invitation underscores that true prophecy demands attention, even from reluctant ears.
let me warn you• Balaam shifts from would-be curse-seller to watchman, offering a “warning” rather than a prediction for entertainment (Ezekiel 33:7). • God routinely reveals upcoming judgment so people might respond (Amos 3:7). Balaam’s warning is a final mercy to Balak.
what this people will do• “This people” refers to Israel, the covenant nation God promised would prevail (Genesis 12:3). • Balaam will soon foretell Israel’s rise and the downfall of surrounding nations (Numbers 24:17-19). • The phrasing reminds us that Israel’s victories are God-driven, not self-made (Deuteronomy 9:4-5).
to your people• Balak represents Moab; the warning targets Moab’s future (Numbers 24:17 “He will crush the foreheads of Moab”). • Israel’s advance will impact Moab and other adversaries like Edom and Amalek (Numbers 24:18, 20). • History records these conflicts inJudges 3:29 and2 Samuel 8:2, confirming God’s word.
in the days to come• The phrase stretches beyond immediate battles toward the distant horizon—even to the Messianic age (Genesis 49:1;Daniel 2:28). • Balaam’s next oracle points to “a Star” that “will rise from Jacob” (Numbers 24:17), widely recognized as a prophecy of Christ’s first and ultimate reign (Matthew 2:1-2;Revelation 22:16). • Thus “days to come” bridges near-term national victories and the far-off hope of universal blessing through Israel’s Messiah.
summaryNumbers 24:14 marks Balaam’s transition from hired soothsayer to God-pressed prophet. He declares his departure, invites Balak’s attention, issues a serious warning, outlines Israel’s God-given triumphs over Moab, and situates everything within a prophetic timeline that reaches to the Messiah. The verse reminds us that God sovereignly guards His people, fulfills every promise, and graciously announces His plans so that even enemies might heed and turn. (14) I go unto my people.--Such was, probably, the intention of Balaam when he spoke these words. The account of the death of Balaam, however, shows that he still lingered amongst the Moabites. I will advertise thee . . . --The word which is here employed generally means toadvise.The announcement which Balaam made to Balak virtually included advice, inasmuch as it foretold the supremacy of Israel over all their foes, and, consequently, implied the folly of opposition to their progress. It does not appear whether it was or was not at this time that Balaam "taught Balac to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication"(Revelation 2:14). In any case, there does not appear to be any reference to such advice in this verse, although it is inserted in the Targum of Palestine in this place. In the latter days.--Literally,in the end of the days.(SeeGenesis 49:1, where the same expression occurs, and Note.) The prophecy which follows refers exclusively to the future; and it is divided into four parts by the recurrence of the words "He took up his parable" atNumbers 24:15;Numbers 24:20-21;Numbers 24:23. . . . Verse 14. - I will advertise thee.אִיעָצְך has properly the meaning "advise" (Septuagint, συμβουλεύσω), but it seems to have here the same subordinate sense of giving information which "advise" has with us. The Vulgate here has followed the surmise of the Jewish commentators, who saw nothing in Balaam but the arch-enemy of their race, and has actually altered the text into "dabo consilium quid populus tuus populo huic faciat" (cf. Numbers 31:16).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew Nowוְעַתָּ֕ה(wə·‘at·tāh)Conjunctive waw | Adverb
Strong's 6258:At this timeI am going backהוֹלֵ֖ךְ(hō·w·lêḵ)Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 1980:To go, come, walkto my people,לְעַמִּ֑י(lə·‘am·mî)Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 5971:A people, a tribe, troops, attendants, a flockbut come,לְכָה֙(lə·ḵāh)Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular | third person feminine singular
Strong's 1980:To go, come, walklet me warn youאִיעָ֣צְךָ֔(’î·‘ā·ṣə·ḵā)Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative if contextual - first person common singular | second person masculine singular
Strong's 3289:To advise, to deliberate, resolvewhatאֲשֶׁ֨ר(’ă·šer)Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834:Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order thatthisהַזֶּ֛ה(haz·zeh)Article | Pronoun - masculine singular
Strong's 2088:This, thatpeopleהָעָ֥ם(hā·‘ām)Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5971:A people, a tribe, troops, attendants, a flockwill doיַעֲשֶׂ֜ה(ya·‘ă·śeh)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6213:To do, maketo your peopleלְעַמְּךָ֖(lə·‘am·mə·ḵā)Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 5971:A people, a tribe, troops, attendants, a flockin the daysהַיָּמִֽים׃(hay·yā·mîm)Article | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3117:A dayto come.”בְּאַחֲרִ֥ית(bə·’a·ḥă·rîṯ)Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 319:The last, end, the future, posterity
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OT Law: Numbers 24:14 Now behold I go to my people: (Nu Num.) |
