Numbers 22:28

And the Lord opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?

Numbers 22:28 (KJV)

Context

Numbers 22 tells the story of Balaam, a prophet, and Balak, the king of Moab. Balak feared the Israelites camped near his land and asked Balaam to curse them. God told Balaam not to go with Balak’s messengers, but Balaam later agreed to go. God was angry with Balaam’s choice and sent an angel to block his path. Balaam could not see the angel, but his donkey could. Three times the donkey turned aside or pressed against a wall, and each time Balaam struck her.

Meaning

In this verse, the Lord opens the donkey’s mouth, and she speaks to Balaam. The miracle is clearly God’s work, showing His power over all creation. The donkey’s question, “What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?” is calm and reasonable. It exposes Balaam’s unjust treatment of an animal that had served him faithfully. The donkey sees the spiritual danger that Balaam, a prophet, cannot see. This contrast highlights Balaam’s spiritual blindness and his dangerous path.

Biblical connections

God’s use of a donkey to speak recalls how He can use any means to deliver His message. In 2 Peter 2:16, the New Testament refers to this event, saying a dumb donkey spoke with a man’s voice to restrain the prophet’s madness. That connection shows that this miracle was remembered as a warning against greed and disobedience. Here, the donkey’s voice serves as a direct rebuke, making Balaam face his own foolish anger.

Application

This passage teaches us to obey God fully, not just partially. Balaam knew God’s command, but he let Balak’s promises weaken his resolve. We too can be tempted to ignore clear guidance when we want something. The account also warns against impatience and anger. Balaam struck the donkey without pausing to ask why she acted strangely. We should be slow to anger and quick to consider that God may be at work in unexpected ways.

Reflection

God cares for His creation, even a lowly donkey, and He defends the helpless. He also opens blind eyes, sometimes through the most surprising messengers. We are called to stay spiritually alert, so we do not miss the warnings He sends. Like Balaam, we may be confident in our own sight, yet blind to the angel standing in our way. Humility and obedience keep us on the path God has set before us.