Numbers 22:38

38 But Balaam answered, "I have come to you now, but I can't say just anything. I can only say what God tells me to say."

Numbers 22:38 Meaning and Commentary

Numbers 22:38

And Balaam said unto Balak, lo, I am come unto thee
And therefore let nothing more be said of what is past: and as for future things,

have I now any power at all to say anything?
that would be agreeable to the king, and answer his purpose in sending for him, namely, to curse the people of Israel; he suggests that he had not, he was under the powerful restraint of God; he could not say what he himself was inclined to say, and what the king would have him say, and he expected he should; he could not say as some in ( Psalms 12:4 ) : the word

that God putteth in my mouth, that shall I speak;
whether agreeable to Balak's will and design or not, and whether for or against Israel: however, it being expressed in such indefinite terms might leave room for Balak to hope it might answer his expectations and wishes.

Numbers 22:38 In-Context

36 When Balak heard that Balaam was coming, he went out to meet him at Ar in Moab, which was beside the Arnon, at the edge of his country.

37 Balak said to Balaam, "I had asked you before to come quickly. Why didn't you come to me? I am able to reward you well."

38 But Balaam answered, "I have come to you now, but I can't say just anything. I can only say what God tells me to say."

39 Then Balaam went with Balak to Kiriath Huzoth.

40 Balak offered cattle and sheep as a sacrifice and gave some meat to Balaam and the leaders with him.