40-Torah-Week-Balak-40 — בָּלָק
Portion Summary
Balak was the name of a Moabite king during the time of Moses. It is also the title of the fortieth reading from the Torah. The portion's name is derived from the second verse of this reading: "Now Balak the son of Zippor saw all that Israel had done to the Amorites" (Numbers 22:2).
In this Torah portion, Balak, fearing the power of Israel, seeks the help of Balaam, a renowned occult prophet, to curse Israel. However, Balaam encounters resistance from YHVH, who speaks through Balaam's donkey and ultimately guides Balaam to bless Israel rather than curse them.
TORAH:
Numbers 22:1–41: Balak sees the power of Israel and hires Balaam to curse them. Balaam initially resists going but later departs after YHVH permits him. During his journey, his donkey speaks to him after seeing an angel blocking the path.
Numbers 23:1–30: Balaam attempts to curse Israel three times, yet each time he speaks blessings over Israel instead.
Numbers 24:1–25: Balaam's final prophecy further blesses Israel and foretells their victory over their enemies.
Numbers 25:1–18: The Israelites fall into sin with the Moabite women, leading to YHVH's anger and a deadly plague. Phinehas intervenes zealously to stop the plague.
NEVI'EM:
Micah 5:2: Prophecy about a ruler to come from Bethlehem, highlighting that YHVH's plans for Israel will succeed despite opposition.
Micah 5:7: Israel is compared to dew from YHVH, a symbol of refreshment and blessing for the nations.
Micah 6:1–8: A reminder of YHVH's righteous acts and justice, calling Israel to remember how He defended them against Balak and Balaam's schemes.
GOSPELS AND EPISTLES:
Matthew 21:1–11: Y'shua's entry into Jerusalem on a donkey parallels Balaam's experience with his donkey, emphasizing humility and YHVH's authority over prophecy and events.
Hebrews 11:6: "Without faith it is impossible to please YHVH." Balaam's lack of true faith contrasts with the faith required to be aligned with YHVH's will.
APOCRYPHA:
Jasher 67: Provides additional background on Moab and Israel's interactions, including details about Balak and his fear of Israel's power.
Key Points & Symbolism
Balaam's Donkey:
YHVH uses Balaam's donkey to convey a message of humility and obedience, highlighting that even those not in alignment with Him are subject to His will. This event teaches that YHVH can speak through any means to fulfill His purposes.
Balaam's Blessings:
Despite his intent to curse, Balaam is compelled to bless Israel. This shows that no curse or opposition can stand against YHVH's protection over His people;
Numbers 23:8 - "How shall I curse whom YHVH has not cursed?".
Prophecy of a Star and Scepter:
Numbers 24:17, Balaam prophesies about a star arising from Jacob, which is often interpreted as a messianic prophecy pointing to Y'shua, the Messiah.
YHVH's Sovereignty Over Enemies:
This portion illustrates that even those with malicious intent, like Balak and Balaam, cannot thwart YHVH's plans for His people.
Lesson of Obedience and Faith:
Balaam's journey and encounter with YHVH's angel remind us of the importance of obedience and alignment with YHVH's will. Balaam's lack of true devotion contrasts with the faith and obedience YHVH desires.
Study Questions
How does YHVH demonstrate His authority over Balaam's actions and intentions?
What can we learn from Balaam's struggle between his desire for reward and YHVH's command?How do Balaam's blessings foreshadow YHVH's promises for Israel and the coming of the Messiah?
How does this portion encourage believers today to trust in YHVH's protection against opposition?
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