Numbers 23:8

New International Reader's Version

But how can I put a curse on people God hasn’t cursed? How can I speak against people the Lord hasn’t spoken against?

Cross References

Proverbs 26:2

A curse given for no reason is like a wandering bird or a flying sparrow. It doesn’t go anywhere.

Isaiah 44:25

“Some prophets are not really prophets at all. I show that their signs are fake. I make those who practice evil magic look foolish. I destroy the learning of those who think they are wise. Their knowledge does not make any sense at all.

Numbers 22:12

But God said to Balaam, “Do not go with them. You must not put a curse on those people. I have blessed them.”

Numbers 22:6

So come and put a curse on these people. They are too powerful for me. Maybe I’ll be able to win the battle over them. Maybe I’ll be able to drive them out of the land. I know that whoever you bless is blessed. And I know that whoever you cursed is cursed.”

Numbers 23:20

He has commanded me to bless Israel. He has given them his blessing. And I can’t change it.

Numbers 23:23

There isn’t any magic that can hurt the people of Jacob. No one can use magic words to harm Israel. Here is what will be said about the people of Jacob. Here is what will be said about Israel. People will say, ‘See what God has done!’

Numbers 23:7

Then Balaam spoke the message he had received from God. He said, “Balak brought me from the land of Aram. The king of Moab sent for me from the mountains in the east. ‘Come,’ he said. ‘Put a curse on Jacob’s people for me. Come. Speak against Israel.’