Numbers 22:33
And the ass saw me, and turned from me these three times: unless she had turned from me, surely now also I had slain thee, and saved her alive.
Numbers 22:33
The verse conveys the donkey’s perception of the danger, and Balaam’s claim that if the donkey had turned to him, he would have slain her. The rhetorical device shows Balaam’s self-importance and his reliance on force rather than counsel. The donkeys’ turning away serves as a moral witness: the animal seems to recognize the danger better than Balaam.
Theologically, this verse reinforces the theme that God uses unlikely vehicles to reveal truth and to restrain human pride. It also invites readers to consider how God’s mercy extends even in confrontedness—if Balaam would listen. The danger here is that Balaam’s coercive power is not the measure of truth.
We can reflect on how we react to warnings: do we justify harsh responses or listen for truth? The donkey’s action invites humility and discernment, urging us to reconsider our approach and motives.
Cross-References: Proverbs 29:11; James 1:19-20; 2 Peter 3:9