Summary of Portion Balak (Numbers 22:2-Numbers 25:9):
(In year 2023, this portion is combined with portion Chukat, Numbers 19:1-22:1)
(A joint production with chatgpt)
After the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and their journey through the wilderness, they are now approaching the land of Moab. Our portion starts with the reactions of the people of Moab and their King, Balak. Here are the highlights of this portion along with related New Testament verses:
- Balak’s fear and request for Balaam’s curse (Numbers 22:2-6): Balak, the king of Moab, becomes fearful of the Israelites’ presence and sends messengers to summon Balaam, a renowned prophet, to curse them.
Related New Testament verse: “Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error; they have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion.” – Jude 1:11
2. Balaam’s encounter with an angel (Numbers 22:21-35): Balaam goes with Balak’s messengers, but an angel of the Lord blocks his way. Balaam’s donkey sees the angel and refuses to move, prompting Balaam to strike the donkey. Eventually, God opens Balaam’s eyes, and he realizes his error.
Related New Testament verse: “But was rebuked for his wrongdoing by a donkey—an animal without speech—who spoke with a human voice and restrained the prophet’s madness.” – 2 Peter 2:16
3. Balaam’s oracles and blessings (Numbers 23-24): Despite Balak’s hopes for curses, Balaam delivers blessings and oracles from God, affirming His favor and protection over Israel. One notable blessing is found in Numbers 24:17, which prophesies the coming of a star and a scepter from Israel.
Related New Testament verse: “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.” – Revelation 22:16
4. Israel’s apostasy with Moabite women (Numbers 25): The Israelites settle in the plains of Moab and engage in immoral relationships with Moabite women, leading to idolatry and God’s anger. A severe plague breaks out among the Israelites.
Related New Testament verse: “We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day.” – 1 Corinthians 10:8
The portion concludes with the execution of those who participated in the idolatrous practices.