Balaam was a prophet or diviner from Mesopotamia, introduced in Numbers 22. Though not an Israelite, he had some knowledge of the true God and was known for blessings and curses that were considered effectual. Balak, king of Moab, sent for Balaam to curse Israel as they camped near his land (Numbers 22:5–6).
God initially told Balaam not to go with the messengers or curse Israel, “for they are blessed” (Numbers 22:12). When Balak sent more honorable princes and offered greater reward, Balaam sought the Lord again. God permitted him to go but only to speak what He commanded (Numbers 22:20).
On the way, God’s anger was kindled because Balaam’s heart was greedy for reward (2 Peter 2:15). The Angel of the Lord stood in his path, and Balaam’s donkey saw the angel and turned aside. When Balaam struck the donkey, the Lord opened the donkey’s mouth, and she spoke to him (Numbers 22:28). Then Balaam’s eyes were opened to see the angel, who rebuked him.
Balaam proceeded and offered seven altars and sacrifices, but instead of cursing, he repeatedly blessed Israel. One of his most significant prophecies is found in Numbers 24:17: “I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near; a Star shall come out of Jacob, a Scepter shall rise out of Israel.” This is understood as a Messianic prophecy foretelling the coming of Christ.
Despite blessing Israel, Balaam later caused Israel to stumble. Revelation 2:14 says he taught Balak to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit sexual immorality. This is confirmed in Numbers 25, where Israel sinned with the women of Moab, leading to God’s judgment.
Balaam was later killed by the Israelites during their conquest of the Midianites (Numbers 31:8).
Balaam’s legacy is a warning. Though he spoke true prophecies and acknowledged the Lord, his heart was covetous and compromised. He is remembered throughout Scripture as an example of one who loved the wages of unrighteousness (2 Peter 2:15), went astray for gain (Jude 11), and led others into sin.
