Commentaries:
Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown
what Balak . . . consulted--how Balak plotted to destroy thee by getting Balaam to curse thee (Numbers 22:5).
what Balaam . . . answered--how the avaricious prophet was constrained against his own will, to bless Israel whom he had desired to curse for the sake of Balak's reward (Numbers 24:9-11) [MAURER]. GROTIUS explains it, "how Balaam answered, that the only way to injure thee was by tempting thee to idolatry and whoredom" (Numbers 31:16). The mention of "Shittim" agrees with this: as it was the scene of Israel's sin (Numbers 25:1-5; 2 Peter 2:15; Revelation 2:14).
from Shittim unto Gilgal--not that Balaam accompanied Israel from Shittim to Gilgal: for he was slain in Midian (Numbers 31:8). But the clause, "from Shittim," alone applies to Balaam. "Remember" God's kindnesses "from Shittim," the scene of Balaam's wicked counsel taking effect in Israel's sin, whereby Israel merited utter destruction but for God's sparing mercy, "to Gilgal," the place of Israel's first encampment in the promised land between Jericho and Jordan, where God renewed the covenant with Israel by circumcision (Joshua 5:2-11).
know the righteousness--Recognize that, so far from God having treated thee harshly (Micah 6:3), His dealings have been kindness itself (so "righteous acts" for gracious, Judges 5:11; Psalms 24:5, Psalms 112:9).
Other commentary entries containing this verse:
Joel 3:18
Micah 7:14
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