Numbers 23:26-28

New English Translation

Footnotes

1. Numbers 23:26 tn Heb “answered and said.”
2. Numbers 23:26 tn This first clause, “all that the Lord speaks”—is a noun clause functioning as the object of the verb that comes at the end of the verse. It is something of an independent accusative case, since it is picked up with the sign of the accusative: “all that the Lord speaks, it I must do.”
3. Numbers 23:27 tn Heb “be pleasing in the eyes of God.”
4. Numbers 23:27 sn Balak is stubborn, as indeed Balaam is persistent. But Balak still thinks that if another location were used it just might work. Balaam had actually told Balak in the prophecy that other attempts would fail. But Balak refuses to give up so easily. So he insists they perform the ritual and try again. This time, however, Balaam will change his approach, and this will result in a dramatic outpouring of power on him.
5. Numbers 23:28 tn Or perhaps as a place name, “Jeshimon” (cf. 21:20).