This was a remarkable story. The first time I read Numbers, which was over six years ago, I must have rushed through this section without retaining much, for I don't remember anything about a prophet and a talking donkey! But sure enough, in Numbers 22 we meet Balaam, who is a soothsayer of suspect motivation. He is a prophet sure enough, for he acknowledges the One True God, but he seems to be influenced by worldly greed and ambition. I found his story truly interesting.
The Israelites, by this time, are advancing quickly toward the Promised Land. They have entered the land of Moab, and have obviously caused the Moabite king, Balac, to become concerned. Balac summons Balaam to curse the Israelites so that they can be defeated and sent away from his lands. This proves that Balaam was a respected diviner of his time and place. But Balaam is instructed by God Himself not to curse the Israelites. What happens next is a lesson for all of us. What are we to do when we must choose between God's will and our will? God's will is that Balaam not curse the Israelites. Balaam's will is that he curse the Israelites so that he may receive famed reputation and the riches promised by Balac. Balaam chooses his own will and is thus taught a lesson. Riding his donkey toward where the Israelites are encamped, Balaam is stopped by an angel, though only his donkey can actually see the celestial creature. After this happens a few times, Balaam becomes angry with his donkey and strikes him! And then, in an amazing miracle, God allows the donkey to speak to Balaam, asking why he is striking an innocent creature. I was astonished at this passage. The only other instance of a speaking animal in the Bible is the serpent in the Garden! The nature of this miracle is quite debated. Some scholars think the donkey didn't really speak, only that Balaam perceived him to. While others think that if God wanted a donkey to speak, he very well could do so. Either way, the point was made, and Balaam was humbled. He then could see the terrifying angel standing in his way with a sword drawn. The chapter ends with Balaam still heading toward the Israelites with Balac's men, but we now believe he has different intentions than to curse God's people.
