Definition: For I will promote thee unto very great honour, and I will do whatsoever thou sayest unto me: come therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful passage from Numbers 22:17. It’s a truly remarkable story about leadership, obedience, and divine power. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: God is looking at a young man named Balaam, who was a spiritual leader tasked with casting out evil spirits from the people of Jericho. Balaam is incredibly skilled and respected, but he’s also somewhat arrogant and selfish. God decides to test him by asking him to speak to the people of Jericho, even though they are enemies. What Balaam says: Balaam tells the king of Jericho that he should curse the people. He's essentially saying, "I don't care what you say; I want you to make them suffer." The Significance – What it Means: This verse is a massive statement about God’s power and how He chooses to respond to human actions. Here’s what it means in a few layers: God’s Authority: The core of the verse is that God is not just interested in Balaam's words; He’s actively intervening in the situation. He’s saying, “I will do whatever you say.” This highlights God’s absolute authority and control over everything. Divine Favor & Honor: The phrase "promote thee unto very great honour" means that God is recognizing Balaam's exceptional talent and assigning him a significant position of responsibility and favor. It’s not just about praise; it’s about a level of power and importance that goes beyond what Balaam might expect. God's Obedience: The verse also speaks to God’s own obedience. He doesn’t want the curse, but he’s allowing Balaam to speak it anyway because He has decided how to handle the situation. This shows a fundamental difference between human will and divine will. It's a Powerful Moment: This verse is often interpreted as a demonstration of God’s power and a reminder that He is in charge, even when humans are making choices. It also speaks to the potential for great good or terrible consequences – a direct result of choosing to disobey God’s will. In short, this passage describes a moment where God's judgment and influence are forcefully placed upon a person, demonstrating His absolute authority. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss the symbolism behind this verse (e.g., it relates to rebellion or obedience)?