Numbers 23:10

Arabic Bible (GNA) Good News Arabic - 1993 (الترجمة العربية المشتركة)

مَنْ يعُدُّ بَني يعقوبَ؟ مَنْ يُحصي جماعةَ‌ بَني إِسرائيلَ؟ ليكُنْ موتي كموتِ أولئِكَ الأبرارِ، ولْتكُن آخرَتي كآخرَتِهِم».

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, Balaam is speaking and marveling at how numerous the Israelites are, saying it's impossible to count them like dust. He then expresses a desire to share in the fate of the righteous among them.

Explained for Children

Imagine trying to count all the grains of sand at the beach—that's how many people Balaam saw in Israel. He wished he could be like the good people there when he grows up.

Historical Background

Numbers was written by Moses around 1400 BCE. This passage features Balaam, a diviner, who was hired to curse the Israelites but instead praises God. The Israelites were at the brink of entering the Promised Land, and this verse highlights their vast numbers and God's blessing upon them.

Living It Out Today

Imagine being part of a large community project and feeling overwhelmed by its size. Like Balaam, we can recognize the vastness of our communities and the blessings within them, and seek to emulate the righteous among us.

Topics

• blessing
• righteousness
• numbers
• divination
• God's plan
• community

Related Verses

• Genesis 13:16
• Deuteronomy 1:10
• Psalms 105:12
• Revelation 7:9
• Romans 9:27

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Balaam?

Balaam was a diviner or prophet hired by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites, but instead, he ended up praising God and blessing the Israelites.

What does Balaam mean by 'the death of the righteous'?

Balaam wished to die like the righteous among the Israelites, expressing his admiration for their faith and God's blessings upon them.

Why did Balaam marvel at the Israelites' numbers?

Balaam was astonished by the vast number of Israelites, emphasizing God's promise and blessing, which made it impossible to count them just like dust particles.

How does this verse relate to God's promise?

This verse reflects God's promise to Abraham about his descendants being as numerous as the dust of the earth, highlighting God's faithfulness to His promises.