Balaam

Lore & Background

Balaam is first introduced when messengers from Balak, king of Moab, arrive with rewards of divination to persuade him to curse Israel (Numbers 22:5-7). Balaam initially seeks God's guidance, lodging the princes overnight, and God tells him not to go with them because the people are blessed (Numbers 22:8-12). Balaam then refuses the first delegation (Numbers 22:13-14). When a second, more honorable delegation comes, Balaam reiterates that he cannot go beyond the word of the LORD even for great wealth (Numbers 22:16-18). God then permits him to go but only to speak the word God gives him (Numbers 22:20).

Reader's Guide

The passages portray Balaam as a complex figure: a diviner sought for his perceived power to bless or curse, yet one who is ultimately subordinate to the God of Israel. He is initially obedient to God's refusal (Numbers 22:12-13), but later accepts a second invitation after God permits it (Numbers 22:20-21). His journey is marked by a supernatural encounter where his donkey sees the angel of the LORD before he does, highlighting Balaam's spiritual blindness (Numbers 22:23-31). The narrative emphasizes that Balaam cannot speak anything except what God puts in his mouth (Numbers 22:38), underscoring divine sovereignty over human intent. Balaam's repeated striking of the donkey and his anger (Numbers 22:27-29) contrast with the donkey's faithful service, and his eventual confession of sin (Numbers 22:34) shows a measure of repentance, yet he continues on the journey with the princes (Numbers 22:35). The passages present Balaam as a reluctant prophet whose actions are constrained by God's will, even as he participates in Balak's sacrificial rituals (Numbers 22:40-41, 23:1).

Did You Know?

• Balaam's donkey spoke to him after the LORD opened its mouth, asking why he struck it three times (Numbers 22:28-30).
• Balaam struck his donkey three times: once when it turned aside, once when it crushed his foot against a wall, and once when it fell down under him (Numbers 22:23-27).
• The angel of the LORD stood in the way with a drawn sword, but Balaam did not see it until the LORD opened his eyes (Numbers 22:23, 22:31).
• Balaam told Balak that even a house full of silver and gold could not make him go beyond the word of the LORD (Numbers 22:18).

Notable Quotes (Wikiquote)

"Woe to them! They have followed in the footsteps of Cain; they have abandoned themselves to the error of Balaam for the sake of gain; and they have perished in the rebellion of Korah." — Balaam "And when the donkey saw the Angel of the Lord, she lay down under Balaam; so Balaam’s anger was aroused, and he struck the donkey with his staff." — Balaam