Verses 1–6
utmost
"Utmost part," etc., means the end of the encampment, the "fourth part of Israel" Numbers 23:10. Balak's thought, as Grant (following Keil) points out, was not at all to permit Balaam to see the whole of the Hebrew host. In bringing Balaam to Pisgah Numbers 22:13,14. Balak corrects what, evidently, he thought a blunder. Numbers 23:13,14. But when the hireling sees the whole camp he must utter a grander word than before, "He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob," and that with the nation in full view! What an illustration of the truth of Romans 4:5-8.
Verses 7–18
and said
In the prophecies of Balaam God testifies on behalf of His people rather than (as usual) to them. It is the divine testimony to their standing as a redeemed people in view of the serpent "lifted up," and of the water from the smitten rock. Numbers 21:5-9; 20:11. Their state was morally bad, but this was a matter concerning the discipline of God, not His judgment. The interpretation of the prophecies is literal as to Israel, typical as to Christians. Through Christ "lifted up" John 3:14 our standing is eternally secure and perfect, though our state may require the Father's discipline ; 1 Corinthians 11:30-32; 2 Corinthians 1:4-9; 1:10-13 meantime, against all enemies, God is "for us." Romans 8:31.
Verses 19–21
repent
Scofield "Zechariah 8:14".
Verses 22–30
unicorn
i.e. the aurochs, or wild ox.