Topical Encyclopedia Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet mentioned in the Old Testament, is a complex figure whose account is primarily found in the Book of Numbers. His narrative is often cited as a cautionary tale about the dangers of covetousness and the moral compromises that can arise from it.Background and Context Balaam, son of Beor, was a prophet known for his ability to bless and curse, and his reputation extended beyond his own people. His account unfolds during the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, as they encamped in the plains of Moab, across the Jordan River from Jericho. Balak, the king of Moab, feared the Israelites due to their numbers and the victories they had achieved over neighboring nations. In an attempt to weaken them, Balak sought Balaam's services to curse the Israelites. The Temptation of Wealth Balak's messengers approached Balaam with the promise of a handsome reward for cursing Israel. Numbers 22:7 states, "The elders of Moab and Midian left with the fees for divination in hand, and they came to Balaam and relayed to him the words of Balak." Balaam's initial response was to seek God's guidance, and God instructed him not to go with the men or curse the Israelites, for they were blessed (Numbers 22:12). Despite this clear directive, Balaam's covetous nature was revealed when Balak sent more distinguished officials with promises of greater rewards. Balaam's response in Numbers 22:18 shows his internal struggle: "But Balaam replied to the servants of Balak, 'Even if Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the command of the LORD my God to do anything small or great.'" The Journey and the Donkey God permitted Balaam to go with Balak's officials, but only to speak what He commanded. However, Balaam's heart was swayed by the potential for wealth and honor. This is evident in the episode with Balaam's donkey, where an angel of the LORD blocked the path, and the donkey, seeing the angel, refused to proceed. Balaam's eyes were eventually opened to the angel's presence, and he was reminded of the seriousness of his mission (Numbers 22:22-35). Balaam's Prophecies Despite his covetous intentions, Balaam was compelled by God to bless Israel instead of cursing them. Numbers 23:11-12 records Balak's frustration: "Then Balak said to Balaam, 'What have you done to me? I brought you to curse my enemies, and behold, you have only blessed them!' But Balaam replied, 'Should I not speak exactly what the LORD puts in my mouth?'" The Aftermath and Legacy Balaam's account does not end with his prophecies. His covetousness ultimately led him to counsel Balak on how to entice the Israelites into sin, resulting in God's judgment upon Israel (Numbers 31:16). Balaam's actions are later condemned in the New Testament as an example of greed and moral failure. 2 Peter 2:15 warns, "They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Beor, who loved the wages of wickedness." Balaam's narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the perils of covetousness and the importance of obedience to God's will, highlighting the destructive potential of allowing material desires to overshadow spiritual integrity. Nave's Topical Index 2 Peter 2:15Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; Nave's Topical Index Jude 1:11 Library Thankfulness to God. Balak's Inquiries Relative to the Service of God, and Balaam's ... The Wine of Prayer Confession of Sin --A Sermon with Seven Texts Tenth Commandment Internal Foes. The Routing of Giant Doubt Topical Index 1 Cor. Ix. 24 V. ... Resources Who was Balaam in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the doctrine of Balaam? | GotQuestions.org Did Balaam's donkey really talk to him? | GotQuestions.org Balaam: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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