In Parashat Balak, King Balak of Moab hires the prophet Balaam to curse the Israelites, fearing their growing power. Despite Balaam’s initial reluctance, he attempts to curse them, but God intervenes, transforming his words into blessings. Balaam utters prophecies praising Israel’s uniqueness and future greatness, including the famous line, "How goodly are your tents, O Jacob" (Numbers 24:5). The parasha concludes with the Israelites sinning with Moabite women and worshipping their idol, Peor, leading to a plague and Pinchas’ zealous intervention. The narrative underscores God’s protection of Israel and the danger of moral compromise.
