Numbers 22:5

Dutch 1939 (De Heilige Schrift, Petrus Canisiusvertaling, 1939)

gezanten naar Balaäm, den zoon van Beor, te Petor aan de Rivier in het land van zijn volksgenoten, om hem te ontbieden. Ze moesten zeggen: Daar is een volk uit Egypte getogen, dat het land overdekt, en zich vlak naast mij heeft genesteld.

Wat betekent dit?

Balak, the king of Moab, sends messengers to Balaam asking him to come and curse the Israelites because they are numerous and pose a threat to his land. This shows the fear Balak has towards the Israelites.

Uitgelegd voor kinderen

Imagine you have a lot of friends coming over to play, and your neighbor gets scared because there are so many of them. Balak is like that neighbor who is worried and asks a wizard to come and make the big group of friends go away.

Historische achtergrond

The book of Numbers was written by Moses around 1400 BC, detailing the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. This verse comes from a context where the Israelites are seen as a threat to nearby nations, including Moab.

Toepassing voor vandaag

Sometimes, people fear groups that are different or large, like Balak fearing the Israelites. We can apply this by trying to understand and communicate with those we fear instead of avoiding or cursing them.

Onderwerpen

• fear
• mistrust
• conflict
• prophets
• confrontation
• advice

Gerelateerde verzen

• Deuteronomy 23:4
• Joshua 24:9-10
• Micah 6:5
• 2 Peter 2:15
• Revelation 2:14

Aanbevolen literatuur

Commentaar Commentaren op Numbers → Deze Bijbel Studiebijbel (De Heilige Schrift, Petrus Canisiusvertaling, ) →

Veelgestelde vragen

Who is Balaam?

Balaam was a prophet known for his ability to curse and bless others. Balak seeks his services to curse the Israelites, believing it will weaken them.

Why does Balak fear the Israelites?

Balak fears because the Israelites are numerous and might threaten Moab's land and resources, as Balak perceives them as a potential danger.

What is the significance of Pethor?

Pethor is the place where Balaam lived. It's by a river and was known for being the home of prophets and wise men.

How does this verse relate to the theme of fear?

This verse shows how fear can lead to extreme actions, such as seeking curses. Balak's fear of the Israelites prompts him to take drastic steps to protect his land.