"This was the man, this Balaam, I say, was the man, who desired to die the death of the righteous, and that his last end might be like his; and this was the state of his mind when he pronounced these words"

Joseph Butler, a popular theologian and philosopher, uses an engaging reflection on the scriptural figure Balaam in this quote. The text explores Balaam's mindset when uttering a desire to "die the death of the righteous" and to have a "last end" like theirs. To interpret this, it's important to comprehend the context and the wider implications of Butler's exploration.

Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, appears in the Book of Numbers in the Bible. He is an intricate character known for his interactions with King Balak of Moab, who sought to curse the Israelites. However, Balaam, regardless of his goals and temptations for personal gain, winds up blessing the Israelites due to magnificent intervention. The duality in Balaam's character-- a male captured in between his own desires and the will of God-- is central to Butler's discourse.

Butler's reference to Balaam's dream to "die the death of the exemplary" highlights an extensive human yearning for a worthy and honorable end. The "death of the exemplary" indicates dying with ethical integrity and peace, qualities typically associated with a virtuous life. Balaam's wish recommends an awareness of righteousness's charm and appeal, yet it paradoxically contrasts with his actions and internal disputes.

Butler utilizes Balaam's narrative to reflect on the state of one's soul and the sincerity of one's desires. Balaam's position is emblematic of individuals who acknowledge the value of righteousness intellectually but struggle to embody it in practice. This reflective area Butler produces welcomes the audience to analyze their own lives. Are we, like Balaam, drawn to the nobility of righteousness but reluctant or unable to align our deeds with these aspirations?

In essence, Butler's quote serves as both a cautionary tale and a reflective mirror, shedding light on the human condition where desires for righteousness must be consulted with genuine efforts and actions that align with those goals. The narrative motivates a reconciliation of desires with actions, intending to live a life worthy of the exemplary end we might yearn for.