Numbers 24:14 (KJV)

What does Numbers 24:14 mean?

Numbers 24:14 marks a shift in Balaam’s message to Balak, the king of Moab. Before leaving, Balaam offers to tell Balak what the people of Israel will do to Balak’s people in the days ahead.

Balaam has just told Balak that he could speak only what the Lord said. His words here introduce a message about Israel’s future relationship with Moab, the nation ruled by Balak.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 24:14

• “advertise” — יָעַץ (yaʿats): The word often means to advise or counsel. In the KJV, “advertise” has an older sense: to inform someone or give notice, rather than to promote a product.
• “latter” — אַחֲרִית (aḥarit): The word can refer to what comes later or at the end. With “days,” it points Balaam’s announcement toward a future time.

Why Numbers 24:14 matters

• Balaam speaks about two distinct peoples. “This people” refers to Israel, while “thy people” refers to Balak’s people, the Moabites.
• Balaam’s announcement sets up the words that follow. In verse 17, the picture of a star and a ruler’s staff introduces the prediction concerning Moab.
• The time phrase leaves room for a future beyond Balaam’s departure. “In the latter days” places the events ahead, rather than describing an immediate action at their meeting.