And God came unto Balaam, and said, What men are these with thee?

NUMBERS 22:9KJV
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Numbers 22:9 (KJV)

What does Numbers 22:9 mean?

Numbers 22:9 describes God approaching Balaam and asking about the men staying with him. The question brings the visitors’ purpose into the conversation between God and Balaam, before Balaam gives them an answer.

The visitors have come from Balak, the king of Moab, who wants Balaam to curse Israel. After Balaam tells the men to stay overnight, God’s question focuses on their presence in Balaam’s house.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 22:9

  • “God” — אֱלֹהִים (ʾelohim): This Hebrew word often means “God.” Its form is plural, but here it refers to the one God who speaks to Balaam.
  • “came” — בּוֹא (boʾ): This word means “come” or “enter.” The word describes God’s approach to Balaam, though it does not specify how Balaam perceived it.

Why Numbers 22:9 matters

  • The question prepares the reader to hear the visitors’ request from Balaam himself. In verses 10–11, Balaam identifies Balak and repeats his request to curse the people who came out of Egypt.
  • God’s question is part of a conversation that affects Balaam’s reply. In verse 12, God tells Balaam not to go with the men or curse the people.

Where else these words appear

“Balaam” Hebrew H1109 · used in 57 verses

  • Numbers 22:5 He sent messengers therefore unto Balaam the son of Beor to Pethor, which is by the river of the land of the children of his people, to call him, saying, Behold, there is a people come out from Egypt: behold, they cover the face of the earth, and they abide over against me:
  • Numbers 22:34 And Balaam said unto the angel of the LORD, I have sinned; for I knew not that thou stoodest in the way against me: now therefore, if it displease thee, I will get me back again.
  • Numbers 23:29 And Balaam said unto Balak, Build me here seven altars, and prepare me here seven bullocks and seven rams.