THE STAR AND THE SCEPTER

Balaam’s fourth blessing, given against his greedy will, speaks of a “star” that is symbolic of enlightenment, and a “scepter” that is symbolic of kingship (Gen 49:10), prophesying about the Messiah’s kingship and rule (Heb 1:8; Rev 2:27). Balaam declares, “I see him, but not here and now” (Num 24:17). The Oracle is prophetic, as in the distant future. Here Jesus is portrayed prophetically as a “star” or “great light” for humankind (Isa 9:2; Matt 4:14-16). Jesus himself claimed to be the “light of the world” and said, “If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life” (John 8:12). In the book of Revelation, John records what Christ calls himself: “I am both the source of David and the heir to his throne. I am the bright morning star” (Rev 22:16).

The “scepter” (Num 24:17) reveals that Jacob’s offspring will not only be a light or a star but a regal King. In the ancient world, a scepter was often a symbol of a ruler’s power. In Genesis 49:10, Jacob announced: “The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from his descendants, until the coming of the one to whom it belongs, the one whom all nations will honour.” The writer of Hebrews accords full deity status to the Son, “But to the Son he says, ‘Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever. You rule with a scepter of justice’” (Heb 1:8). This speaks of the second coming of Christ and his eternal reign (Rev 19:15).

Christ came as the “light of the world” and continues to shine brightly as the source of salvation for those who put their trust in him (John 1:12-13; 3:16, 18, 36; 20:31). He is also coming again to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords! “For the Lamb on the throne will be their Shepherd. He will lead them to springs of life-giving water. And God will wipe every tear from their eyes . . . and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever” (Rev 7:17; 21:4). This is the hope of all who suffer, neatly wrapped in two words: Star and Scepter.