(story told in Numbers 22:1-24:25)
Balaam was a prophet known for his ability to bless or curse through his words. When the Israelites camped near Moab after leaving Egypt, King Balak of Moab grew afraid. He sent messengers to Balaam, offering him riches if he would curse Israel so they could be defeated. Balaam asked God about it, and God told him not to go or curse the Israelites because they were blessed.
When Balak sent more officials with greater rewards, Balaam’s greed tempted him. God allowed him to go, but warned that he could only say what God told him. On the journey, Balaam’s donkey suddenly stopped three times because it saw the angel of the Lord blocking the way. Balaam, blind to the angel, beat the donkey in anger. Then God opened the donkey’s mouth, and it spoke, asking why Balaam was striking it. God opened Balaam’s eyes, and he realized how close he had come to destruction.
When Balaam arrived, Balak took him to different places to curse Israel, but each time, God gave Balaam words of blessing instead. He declared that Israel was chosen and that no curse could stand against them. Balak grew furious, but Balaam could only speak what God commanded.
Through Balaam, God even gave a prophecy of a coming ruler who would rise from Israel—a foreshadowing of the Messiah. Afterward, Balaam returned home, and later his greed led him into wrongdoing that brought judgment.
Balaam’s story reminds us that no power or profit can change God’s plan. His blessings stand firm, and His truth cannot be bought or silenced.