Old Testament
Numbers 22:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But please, stay here tonight as well, so I can find out if the LORD has anything more to say to me."
Compare translations
Now therefore, I pray you, tarry ye also here this night, that I may know what the LORD will say unto me more.
What Numbers 22:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Balaam is speaking to the messengers sent by Balak, the king of Moab. He asks them to stay overnight so he can seek further guidance from God. Balaam is showing a desire to understand God's will more clearly before making a decision. This reflects the importance of seeking divine direction in our lives, especially when faced with significant choices. Balaam's request indicates that he values God's input and wants to ensure he is acting in accordance with God's wishes. It also highlights the practice of prayer and waiting for answers, which is a crucial aspect of faith. By taking the time to listen for God's voice, Balaam demonstrates a thoughtful approach to decision-making, rather than rushing into actions without proper consideration of God's plans. This verse encourages believers to pause and seek God's guidance in their own lives, emphasizing the need for patience and attentiveness in spiritual matters.
How to apply Numbers 22:19 to your life
When faced with important decisions, take time to pray and seek God's guidance. Like Balaam, we should not rush into choices but instead wait for clarity and direction from the Lord. This practice helps ensure that our actions align with God's will and purpose for our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Numbers 22:19
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Numbers 22:19
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 22:19 mean?
In Numbers 22:19, Balaam asks the messengers from Balak to stay overnight so he can seek further guidance from God. This shows his desire to understand God's will more clearly before making a decision.
What is the significance of Balaam's request in Numbers 22:19?
Balaam's request to stay overnight highlights the importance of seeking divine guidance before making important choices. It reflects a thoughtful approach to decision-making and emphasizes the need for patience in waiting for God's direction.
How does Numbers 22:19 relate to prayer?
Numbers 22:19 illustrates the practice of prayer and waiting for answers from God. Balaam's desire to hear more from the Lord demonstrates the significance of seeking God's input in our lives.
What can we learn from Balaam in Numbers 22:19?
From Balaam in Numbers 22:19, we learn the value of taking time to seek God's guidance before making decisions. His example encourages us to pause and listen for God's voice in our own lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.