Numbers 22:25 - Donkey sees angel, Balaam blind?

The Donkey's Vision and Bil'am's Blindness

The verse describes the donkey seeing the angel of Hashem while Bil'am remains oblivious. Rashi (Bamidbar 22:25) explains that Hashem opened the donkey's eyes to see the angel, while Bil'am - despite being a prophet - was prevented from seeing it at that moment. This demonstrates the principle that divine revelation is granted according to Hashem's will, not human merit.

The Donkey's Reaction

When the donkey saw the angel blocking the path, she pressed against the wall to avoid it, crushing Bil'am's foot in the process. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 20:12) notes the irony that Bil'am, who sought to curse Israel, was now being rebuked by his own donkey. The donkey's actions were divinely guided to humble Bil'am and demonstrate that even animals recognize Hashem's presence when He chooses to reveal it.

Bil'am's Continued Stubbornness

Despite the clear supernatural signs, Bil'am persisted in striking his donkey. The Ramban (Bamidbar 22:25) explains that this shows Bil'am's arrogance and refusal to acknowledge divine intervention, even when it was manifest before him. His continued beating of the donkey reflects his stubborn determination to pursue his mission against Israel, despite the warnings.

Lessons from the Incident

• Divine Providence: Hashem controls all creatures, even animals, to fulfill His will (Talmud, Avodah Zarah 4b).
• Humility: The greatest prophet can be made blind while a simple animal sees clearly, teaching that wisdom comes from Hashem (Malbim on Bamidbar 22:25).
• Warning Signs: Hashem provides warnings before punishment, as seen in the angel's repeated appearances (Sforno on Bamidbar 22:25).