Numbers 22:11

11 He said, 'A nation has come out of Egypt. They are covering the whole surface of the land. So come. Put a curse on them for me. Maybe I'll be able to fight them. Maybe I'll be able to drive them away.' "

Numbers 22:11 Meaning and Commentary

Numbers 22:11

Behold, there is a people come out of Egypt
In this, and the following part of the verse, he faithfully and punctually relates the words of Balak to him by his messengers, as well knowing he could not deceive the omniscient God, or hide anything from him, though he could deceive men; and conceal the truth from them, to serve a purpose; (See Gill on Numbers 22:5) (See Gill on Numbers 22:6).

Numbers 22:11 In-Context

9 God came to Balaam. He asked, "Who are these men who are with you?"

10 Balaam said to God, "Balak king of Moab, the son of Zippor, sent me a message.

11 He said, 'A nation has come out of Egypt. They are covering the whole surface of the land. So come. Put a curse on them for me. Maybe I'll be able to fight them. Maybe I'll be able to drive them away.' "

12 But God said to Balaam, "Do not go with them. You must not put a curse on those people. I have blessed them."

13 The next morning Balaam got up. He said to Balak's princes, "Go back to your own country. The LORD won't let me go with you."