Balaam: Sorcery & Magic
You shall not curse the people, for they are blessed.
Key words
- Soothsayer: a person who is believed to have the ability to curse others
In ancient times, people would consult a soothsayer for guidance on how to avoid curses and misfortune.
- Renowned: famous for something
The region is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty.
- Curse: to say magic words that are intended to bring bad luck to someone
Things were going so badly - it was as if I'd been cursed.
- Provoke: to cause a reaction, especially a negative one
The prime minister's speech provoked an angry response.
- Wrath: extreme anger
He left home to escape his father’s wrath.
Read the article to find the answers
- Which book tells the story of Balaam?
- What did Balak want Balaam to do?
- How did Balak weaken the Israelites?
- How do Peter and Jude describe those who copy Balaam?
Overview
The Book of Numbers details the Israelites' journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land of Canaan. This journey comes after God promises the land of Canaan to Abraham and rescues his descendants from slavery in Egypt. At Mount Sinai, the Israelites accept a covenant with God, who instructs them on how to live as a holy nation.
One of the key components of this journey is the construction of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary that symbolizes God's presence among the people. The Israelites build the Tabernacle according to divine specifications, allowing God to dwell among them as they travel.
As the Israelites journey through the wilderness, they face numerous challenges and periods of rebellion and disobedience. The narrative of Numbers captures their struggle to maintain faith and follow God's commandments, which leads to various trials and punishments designed to discipline and prepare them for entering the Promised Land.
Balaam's Failed Curse
The Israelites frightened Balak, the king of Moab. In an attempt to weaken them, Balak hires a renowned soothsayer named Balaam. Balak offers Balaam great riches if he will curse the Israelites. But God tells Balaam not to curse the Israelites because they are a blessed people. Balak, not giving up, promises Balaam even greater riches if he curses the Israelites. This time God allows Balaam to go to Moab, but he can only speak the words God puts in his mouth. When Balaam finally arrives in Moab, he tries to curse the Israelites three times. But each time he opens his mouth, God intervenes, and instead of cursing, Balaam blesses the Israelites.
The Seduction of Israel
Balaam tells King Balak to send women to seduce the Israelite men and lead them into idolatry and immorality. Many Israelite men were seduced by the women, provoking the wrath of God. God kept His part of the covenant with Israel by turning curses into blessings, but Israel did not keep their part of the covenant by worshiping other gods. A plague broke out among the Israelites, and many of them died.
Balaam in the New Testament
In the New Testament, both Peter and Jude give similar warnings about false prophets and teachers who use their gifts for personal gain, as Balaam did.
Woe to them! They are like Cain, running greedily after the error of Balaam. They are clouds without water, trees without fruit, wandering stars; the blackness of darkness is reserved for them forever.
In Revelation, Jesus told John to write:
I know your works, and where you dwell, and that you hold fast to my name, and do not deny my faith. But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel to commit fornication. Repent, or I will come quickly to you and fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
Discussion questions
- Do you have any questions about any of the vocabulary or grammar in this article?
- Do you know the Bible passage quoted at the top of this article?
- What would you do for great riches?
- Do you know any stories where people were tempted to do something they knew they shouldn't?
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