Imagine that – one voice, heard by everyone! Why? Because God knew that one day, someone would come along claiming to be a god, leading many astray.
God, in His wisdom, amplified Balaam's pronouncements to serve as a warning. Balaam declared, "God is not a man, and the man that passeth himself for God lieth.” It’s a pretty direct condemnation, right? And he didn't stop there. He went on to say that anyone who claims they will disappear and then reappear is making a promise they can’t keep. According to Balaam's prophecy, woe to the nation that listens to such a person!
But Balaam's vision extended beyond this warning. He also foresaw events surrounding King David’s reign. And, even more dramatically, he spoke of the end of days, the acharit hayamim, and the time of the Messiah. He prophesied that Rome, and indeed all other nations, would be destroyed by Israel… with one notable exception.
The descendants of Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, would be spared. They would participate in Israel's joys and sorrows. It's a fascinating detail, highlighting the importance of those who choose to align themselves with the righteous.
And get this: Balaam even specified that the Kenites, descendants of Jethro, specifically the sons of Jonadab, would be the ones to announce the arrival of the Messiah to Israel! Moreover, they would be the first to bring offerings at the Temple and proclaim Jerusalem's deliverance. What a powerful image!
This, according to the Legends of the Jews, was Balaam's final prophecy. After this, the prophetic spirit departed from him. And here's where it gets even more significant for us: God granted Moses' wish to reserve the gift of prophecy as a special distinction for the Jewish people. Balaam, in effect, became the last prophet of the nations.
So, what does this all mean? It’s a reminder that while others may receive glimpses, the true path to understanding God's will, the ongoing legacy of prophecy, rests within the covenant between God and Israel. It’s a beautiful thought, isn’t it? A reminder of our unique role, and a challenge to live up to the responsibility that comes with it.