For from the top of the rocks I see him, and from the hills I behold him: lo, the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations.
From the top - literally 'a bare place' on the rocks, to which Balak had taken him; because it was deemed necessary to see the people who were to be devoted to destruction. But that commanding prospect could contribute nothing to the accomplishment of the king's object; because the destiny of Israel was to be a distinct, special people, separated from the rest of the nations in government, religion, customs, and divine protection (see the note at Deuteronomy 33:28). 'So that, although I might be able to gratify your wishes against other people, I can do nothing against them' (Exodus 19:5; Leviticus 20:24).