Numbers 22:36-40 - Arthur Peake's Commentary on the Bible

Bible Comments

The Meeting of Balak and Balaam. Partly from E. and partly from J, but the distribution between the two sources is uncertain. Probably Numbers 22:36 and Numbers 22:38 belong to E, describing (in continuation of Numbers 22:21) Balaam's journey to Moab, where he is met by Balak at the frontier city of Moab (the Ar of Numbers 21:15); whilst Numbers 22:37 and Numbers 22:39 belong to J, and imply that Balak went in person to fetch Balaam, who returned with him to Kiriath-huzoth (an unknown locality). The sacrifices mentioned in Numbers 22:40 formed part of a feast of welcome, shares of the feast being sent both to Balaam and to the princes.

Numbers 22:36-40

36 And when Balak heard that Balaam was come, he went out to meet him unto a city of Moab, which is in the border of Arnon, which is in the utmost coast.

37 And Balak said unto Balaam, Did I not earnestly send unto thee to call thee? wherefore camest thou not unto me? am I not able indeed to promote thee to honour?

38 And Balaam said unto Balak, Lo, I am come unto thee: have I now any power at all to say any thing? the word that God putteth in my mouth, that shall I speak.

39 And Balaam went with Balak, and they came unto Kirjathhuzoth.b

40 And Balak offered oxen and sheep, and sent to Balaam, and to the princes that were with him.