Translations
Original
Notes
This passage clearly uses humor to make fun of Balaam, the professional diviner. The story shows that his spiritual understanding and obedience to God were less than those of his own donkey.
The story of Balak and Balaam marks an important turning point in Israel’s history. It includes humor, drama, and deep teaching about God.
The story makes one main point clear. The Lord’s will must be carried out. No one could stop his plan for Israel.
People
Balaam: A prophet hired to curse Israel but blessed them instead
Places
Moab: Ancient kingdom east of the Dead Sea in Jordan
Glossary
Ammon, Ammonites Angel of the Lord Balaam Balak Curse, Cursed Deuteronomy, Book of False Prophets Jannes and Jambres Moab, Moabites Moses Numbers, Book of Prophets, False Shittim (Place)
Topics
Donkey: Domesticated used for Riding Journey of Israel Through The Desert: Return to the Plains of Moab: Balaam not Permitted to Curse Israel Temptation: Yielding to Balaam the Domestic Donkey was Used for Riding Travellers of Distinction: Rode on Asses, Camels