Numbers 22:28
And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?
Numbers 22:28 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Numbers recounts a miraculous event where the LORD enabled an ass to speak to Balaam, a prophet who was about to disobey God's command. The speaking of the ass serves as a powerful demonstration of God's sovereignty and authority over all creation, including animals. The question posed by the ass to Balaam highlights the animal's innocence and confusion over the mistreatment it had received. It also serves as a rebuke to Balaam for his harsh treatment of the ass, reminding him that every creature has value and deserves to be treated with kindness and compassion. This event ultimately serves as a reminder to readers of the importance of humility and obedience to God's will, as well as the recognition that God can work miracles in ways that are beyond human understanding.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse, where the LORD opens the mouth of the ass to speak to Balaam, highlights the supernatural power of God and His ability to use any means to get His message across. In this context, the LORD is demonstrating His sovereignty over all creation, including animals, and His ability to intervene in human affairs in unexpected ways. This event emphasizes the importance of listening and being open to receiving God's word, no matter the vessel through which it is delivered. It also serves as a reminder that God can use the most unlikely sources to communicate His will and that His power is not restricted by human limitations.
Numbers 22:28 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Jehovah opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?
World English Bible
Yahweh opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, “What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?”
Douay-Rheims
And the Lord opened the mouth of the ass, and she said: What have I done to thee? Why strikest thou me, lo, now this third time?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then the Lord opened the mouth of the asse, and she saide vnto Balaam, What haue I done vnto thee, that thou hast smitten me nowe three times?