Numbers 24:13
If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the commandment of the LORD, to do either good or bad of mine own mind; but what the LORD saith, that will I speak?
Numbers 24:13 · King James Version
Meaning
These words were spoken by the prophet Balaam in the Old Testament of the Bible. Balaam was a man hired by King Balak to curse the Israelites, but he refused to do so because he knew that he could not go against the commandment of the Lord. This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God's will above all else. Balaam understood that no amount of riches or rewards could tempt him to act against God's instructions. His declaration emphasizes the need for us to prioritize God's commands in our lives, even when faced with pressure or temptation to do otherwise. It serves as a reminder for all believers to stay steadfast in their faith and to seek guidance solely from the word of the Lord.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Numbers is a powerful declaration of faith and obedience by the prophet Balaam. Balaam resists the temptation of riches offered by King Balak in exchange for cursing the Israelites. Instead, Balaam recognizes that he is bound by the commandment of the Lord and cannot act outside of it. This statement reflects Balaam's understanding that he is God's servant and must speak only what the Lord instructs him to, whether it be good or bad in the eyes of others. By prioritizing God's will over personal gain, Balaam sets an example of unwavering faith and obedience for believers to follow. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of aligning oneself with God's commandments and trusting in His guidance, even when faced with overwhelming temptation or pressure. It serves as a reminder for readers to seek God's will above all else and to speak truthfully and faithfully in all circumstances.
Numbers 24:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the word of Jehovah, to do either good or bad of mine own mind; what Jehovah speaketh, that will I speak?
World English Bible
‘If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I can’t go beyond Yahweh’s word, to do either good or bad of my own mind. I will say what Yahweh says’?
Douay-Rheims
If Balac would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the word of the Lord my God, to utter any thing of my own head either good or evil: but whatsoever the Lord shall say, that I will speak?
Geneva Bible (1599)
If Balak would giue me his house ful of siluer and gold, I can not passe the commandement of the Lord, to doe either good or bad of mine owne minde? what the Lord shall commaund, the same will I speake.