Balak and Balaam: When Greed and Sorcery Tried to Curse God’s People

Bible Believing Christian
Sep 16
3 min read

Balak and Balaam: When Greed and Sorcery Tried to Curse God’s People

Numbers 22–24 reads like a dramatic thriller—complete with political intrigue, supernatural visions, and a talking donkey. Balak, king of Moab, hired the pagan seer Balaam to curse Israel. Instead, Balaam blessed God’s people and even predicted the Messiah. This narrative unmasks greed and spiritual manipulation, while highlighting God’s unstoppable purpose.

Biblical Foundation

“Now Balak the son of Zippor saw all that Israel had done to the Amorites. So Moab was in great fear because of the people, for they were numerous; and Moab was in dread of the sons of Israel… So Balak sent messengers to Balaam the son of Beor at Pethor, which is near the River… to call him, saying, ‘Behold, a people came out of Egypt; behold, they cover the surface of the land, and they are living opposite me. Now please come, curse this people for me… for I know that he whom you bless is blessed, and he whom you curse is cursed.’” (Numbers 22:2–6 NASB)

God warned Balaam not to go, yet he pursued the reward. On the way, the Angel of the LORD blocked his path until Balaam’s donkey spoke (Numbers 22:21–35). Instead of cursing Israel, Balaam delivered blessings, including a messianic prophecy:

“I see him, but not now; I look at him, but not near; A star shall appear from Jacob, A scepter shall rise from Israel…” (Numbers 24:17 NASB)

Historical & Contextual Notes

Moabite fear: Israel’s victories over Sihon and Og alarmed Moab, which feared losing land and power.

Balaam’s background: Likely a renowned diviner from Mesopotamia. Ancient texts from Deir Alla mention a “seer of the gods” named Balaam, suggesting extra-biblical confirmation.

Talking donkey: God used a miraculous sign to expose Balaam’s spiritual blindness.

Misconceptions / Objections

“Balaam was a faithful prophet.”Although he spoke true prophecies, Balaam’s heart was corrupt. Later Scripture reveals that he counseled Moab to seduce Israel into idolatry (Numbers 31:16; Revelation 2:14).

“God changed His mind.”God’s initial command not to go stands. He permitted Balaam to go only as part of a plan to reveal His sovereignty and expose Balaam’s motives.

“Blessing and curse are magic words.”Balaam’s inability to curse Israel shows that no spell can override God’s covenant protection.

Theological Reflection

Balaam’s story exposes greed disguised as spirituality. The New Testament warns against “the way of Balaam, who loved the wages of unrighteousness” (2 Peter 2:15) and “the error of Balaam” (Jude 11). God turns human schemes upside down, transforming intended curses into blessings.

Connection to Christ

Messianic Star and Scepter: Numbers 24:17 is fulfilled in Jesus, the true King from Jacob’s line (Matthew 2:2; Revelation 22:16).

Unstoppable Blessing: Just as no curse could touch Israel, no weapon can thwart Christ’s saving plan (Romans 8:31).

Warning to Leaders: Revelation 2:14 warns churches not to tolerate “the teaching of Balaam,” which entices God’s people to compromise.

Christ-Centered Conclusion

Balak and Balaam tried to weaponize prophecy for profit and power, but God turned every attempt into blessing. Christ is the promised Star and Scepter who secures His people’s future and frustrates every scheme of the enemy.