Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Numbers 22:8 mean?
A: In Numbers 22:8, Balaam tells the messengers from Moab to stay overnight so he can consult with Hashem (God) before giving them an answer. This shows that even though Balaam was not a Jewish prophet, he recognized that he needed divine guidance before making decisions. Rashi explains that Balaam wanted to see if Hashem would permit him to curse the Jewish people, as the Moabite king Balak requested.
Q: Why did Balaam ask the Moabite princes to stay overnight?
A: Balaam asked the Moabite princes to stay overnight because he wanted time to seek Hashem's will before responding. The Talmud (Berachot 7a) teaches that Balaam knew prophecy only came to him at night, so he needed to wait until then to receive divine communication. This delay also shows that true prophets do not act impulsively but seek God's guidance.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Numbers 22:8?
A: From Numbers 22:8, we learn the importance of seeking divine guidance before making important decisions. Even though Balaam was not righteous, his example teaches that we should not act hastily but instead pray and reflect before responding to requests or challenges. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 1:6) emphasizes the value of measured, thoughtful responses in all matters.
Q: How does this verse relate to Jewish beliefs about prophecy?
A: This verse highlights that true prophecy comes only from Hashem and requires proper preparation. Unlike false prophets who claim instant divine inspiration, Balaam—though flawed—understood that prophecy requires waiting for God's word. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 20:7) contrasts Balaam's limited prophecy with Moshe's constant readiness to receive divine communication.
Q: Why is it significant that the Moabite princes stayed with Balaam?
A: The fact that the Moabite princes stayed with Balaam shows their eagerness to receive his answer. Rashi notes that their willingness to wait demonstrates how seriously Balak, king of Moab, took his mission to curse the Jewish people. This sets the stage for the following verses where Balaam ultimately blesses Israel instead, proving that God protects His people.
Bil'am's Delay in Responding
The verse describes Bil'am asking the Moabite princes to stay overnight while he seeks divine guidance. Rashi (Bamidbar 22:8) explains that Bil'am's request to wait overnight was a tactic to increase his honor—by making the princes wait, he sought to appear more important as one who communicates directly with Hashem. This aligns with Bil'am's character as described in Pirkei Avot (5:19), where he is contrasted with Avraham Avinu, highlighting his arrogance and desire for honor.
The Nature of Bil'am's Prophecy
Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:1) discusses that true prophecy is received by those who are morally and spiritually prepared. Bil'am, though granted prophecy due to Hashem's will in this instance (as explained by the Ramban on Bamidbar 22:9), was not on the level of the Jewish prophets. The Sforno notes that Bil'am's phrasing, "as the Lord shall speak to me," suggests uncertainty—unlike the prophets of Israel, who received clear and direct communication from Hashem.
The Princes' Compliance
The fact that the Moabite princes remained with Bil'am indicates their desperation to secure his services against Bnei Yisrael. The Midrash Tanchuma (Balak 4) highlights that Balak and his officials were persistent in their efforts to curse Israel, showing their recognition of Israel's divine protection and their belief in Bil'am's perceived power.