Numbers 22:34Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The seer observed the clear prophecy yet remained unconvinced, and although he ought to have trusted his own sight, he responded in a way that was indirect and unclear.

When Balaam spoke to the angel of the Lord, he acknowledged his wrongdoing, expressing a desire to turn back. It is reasonable to believe that he genuinely wished to return, as he clearly recognized the futility of his selfish ambitions—to gain God’s approval to curse the Israelites. Nevertheless, the Lord instructed Balaam to proceed on his journey, as He had His own divine intentions for the people of Israel, and Balaam was to serve as an instrument for these purposes, despite his own wishes. Balaam complied, yet he remained confused about what the Lord would convey to him. Amidst his uncertainty, the wretched desire for the promised rewards from the king of Moab began to resurface in his thoughts.