Balak
בָּלָק
Balak
Numbers 22:2−25:9
When Is Balak Read?
/ 14 Tammuz 5784
/ 16 Tammuz 5785
Summary
- Balak, the king of Moab, persuades the prophet Balaam to curse the Israelites so that he can defeat them and drive them out of the region. However, Balaam blesses the Children of Israel instead and prophesies that Israel's enemies will be defeated. (22:2-24:25)
- God punishes the Israelites with a plague for consorting with the Moabite women and their god. The plague is stayed after Pinchas kills an Israelite man and his Midianite woman. (25:1-9)
More Balak Commentaries
Video: Learn About Parashat Balak with Bim Bam
Parashat Balak: Donkeys, Angels, Prophecy in the Torah
What's a cartoon series without talking animals? Thank God the Bible includes a loquacious donkey. Join Rabbi Andy Shapiro Katz for the gutsy, brainy story of a donkey who knew better than its rider. Enjoy this video and others from Bim Bam.
Listen to Podcasts About Parashat Balak
Listen to Rabbi Rick Jacobs discuss Parashat Balak in these episodes of his podcast, On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah.
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Ten Minutes of Torah: Balak Commentary
Will the Real Balaam Please Stand Up?
By: Beth Ellen Young
This week's Torah portion introduces a new character, Balaam, son of Beor. Balaam is presented as a prophet-for-hire who is called upon by rulers to curse their enemies and help them prevail in military battles. This method of battle preparation may seem far removed from current times, yet Balaam has a lot to teach us about how we view others.
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