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Numbers 24:9

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
He couched, he lay down as a lion, and as a great lion: who shall stir him up? Blessed is he that blesseth thee, and cursed is he that curseth thee.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

He crouches and lies down like a lion, like a mighty lion, who dares to disturb him? Blessed are those who bless you, and cursed are those who curse you.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

The writer is describing Israel as being like a powerful lion that no one can challenge, and declaring that God will bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse them.

📚 Historical Context

In the book of Numbers, Balaam, a prophet from outside Israel, was hired by King Balak of Moab to curse the Israelites as they journeyed toward the Promised Land. However, God intervened and turned Balaam's intended curses into blessings, demonstrating His sovereignty and protection over His people. This verse echoes the earlier promise God made to Abraham, affirming that blessing Israel brings divine favor, while cursing it invites judgment.

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