Numbers 22:35 (KJV) is a verse that comes from the Old Testament of the Bible. It is part of the story of Balaam, a diviner or prophet who was hired by the Moabite king, Balak, to curse the Israelites. The verse itself reads, “And the angel of the Lord said unto Balaam, Go with the men: but only the word that I shall speak unto thee, that thou shalt speak. So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.”

To fully understand the meaning and significance of this verse, it is important to delve into the context and themes that surround it. The story of Balaam can be found in the book of Numbers, which details the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In this particular part of the narrative, the Israelites have already defeated several kingdoms and have arrived at the plains of Moab, where they pose a threat to the Moabite king, Balak.

Fearing the Israelites’ power, Balak attempts to hire Balaam to curse them. Balaam is initially resistant, as he seeks the counsel of God. However, after being reassured by God that he will only speak the words that God gives him, Balaam agrees to accompany the princes of Balak. It is during this journey that the verse in question takes place, as the angel of the Lord instructs Balaam on what he should and should not say.

One of the key themes in this verse is the idea of divine obedience and the power of God’s word. Balaam is being directed by the angel of the Lord to only speak the words that God gives him. This emphasizes the importance of aligning one’s actions and speech with the will of God. It also highlights the authority and power of God’s word, which is to be obeyed without question.

Additionally, this verse touches on the concept of divine intervention and protection. The fact that an angel of the Lord is directly speaking to Balaam signifies the divine presence in guiding and guarding him. This serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and his ability to guide and protect his people even in the midst of difficult or dangerous situations.

Symbolically, Balaam’s journey with the princes of Balak can be seen as a representation of the internal conflict between the temptation to stray from God’s will and the need to remain faithful and obedient. Balaam’s decision to heed the words of the angel reflects the importance of staying true to God’s guidance and resisting the pressures of the world.

In a broader sense, the story of Balaam and this particular verse also points to the universal theme of the sovereignty of God. It emphasizes the fact that no matter what the circumstances may be, God’s will shall prevail, and his plans cannot be thwarted. This message serves as a source of comfort and assurance for believers, reminding them that they can trust in God’s ultimate control over all things.

In conclusion, Numbers 22:35 (KJV) is a verse that holds significant meaning within the larger narrative of the story of Balaam. It touches on themes of divine obedience, intervention, and protection, and symbolically represents the struggle to remain faithful in the face of temptation. Ultimately, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the sovereignty of God and the need for believers to align themselves with his will.