If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the commandment of the LORD, to do either good or bad of mine own mind; but what the LORD saith, that will I speak?
Even if Balak offered me his entire house filled with silver and gold, I cannot go against what the LORD has commanded me. I cannot say anything good or bad based on my own thoughts or desires. I will only speak what the LORD tells me to say.
Balaam is declaring that no amount of money or reward can make him disobey God's instructions - he will only speak God's words, not his own.
📚 Historical Context
Balaam, a prophet hired by King Balak of Moab, was being pressured to curse the Israelites as they journeyed toward the Promised Land. Despite Balak's repeated offers of great wealth and honor, Balaam had already been instructed by God to bless Israel instead. This declaration comes after Balaam had already blessed Israel twice, frustrating Balak's plans.
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