Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the context of Numbers 23:17?
A: Numbers 23:17 takes place during the story of Balak, the king of Moab, who hired the prophet Balaam to curse the Israelites. In this verse, Balak approaches Balaam after his first attempt to curse Israel failed. Balak is anxious and asks Balaam what Hashem (God) has spoken, hoping for a different outcome. The verse highlights Balak's persistence and Balaam's role as a prophet who can only speak what God permits.
Q: Why did Balak ask Balaam, 'What has the Lord spoken?'
A: Balak asked Balaam, 'What has the Lord spoken?' because he was desperate to find a way to weaken the Israelites. Despite his first failed attempt, he hoped that Balaam might receive a different message from God that would allow him to curse Israel. According to Rashi, Balak thought that perhaps God's response would change if Balaam tried again from a different location or perspective.
Q: What can we learn from Numbers 23:17 about divine will?
A: Numbers 23:17 teaches that human efforts cannot override divine will. Balak tried repeatedly to manipulate the situation, but Balaam could only bless Israel because that was God's decree. The Talmud (Berachot 7a) discusses how Balaam's inability to curse Israel demonstrates that true prophecy aligns with God's plan, not human desires. This verse reminds us that we must align our actions with divine wisdom rather than trying to force our own agendas.
Q: How does this verse relate to Jewish belief in prophecy?
A: This verse reinforces the Jewish belief that a true prophet speaks only what God commands. Balaam, despite being hired by Balak, could not curse Israel because God had already decreed their protection. The Rambam (Maimonides) explains in Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah that genuine prophecy is not subject to human manipulation—it is a divine communication that must be faithfully delivered. This principle is central to Jewish understanding of prophecy.
Q: What is the significance of Balak standing by the burnt offering in this verse?
A: Balak standing by the burnt offering (olah) shows his attempt to invoke divine favor through sacrifice, hoping it would influence Balaam's prophecy. However, as the Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 20:19) explains, sacrifices and rituals are meaningless if they contradict God's will. The verse emphasizes that true divine communication is not swayed by external rituals but depends on righteousness and God's plan.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bamidbar 23:15) describes the second encounter between Balak, the king of Moav, and Bilaam, the non-Jewish prophet. Balak had summoned Bilaam to curse the Jewish people, but instead, Bilaam was compelled by Hashem to bless them. Here, Balak anxiously awaits Bilaam's second attempt to curse Israel, standing by his burnt offering (עֹלָה) along with the princes of Moav.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Balak's question, "What has the Lord spoken?" reflects his impatience and desperation. Balak had hoped Bilaam would succeed in cursing Israel, but instead, Bilaam had previously blessed them (Bamidbar 23:11). Rashi notes that Balak's persistence in seeking a curse demonstrates his deep-seated hatred for the Jewish people, despite seeing that Hashem had turned Bilaam’s words into blessings.
Ibn Ezra's Insight
Ibn Ezra highlights the significance of "he stood by his burnt offering", noting that Balak remained near the altar, hoping his sacrifices would sway divine favor. However, Ibn Ezra emphasizes that true divine will cannot be manipulated by sacrifices or rituals when Hashem has already decreed otherwise—particularly regarding His chosen people.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 20:14) elaborates on Balak’s state of mind, suggesting that his question was filled with frustration. The Midrash compares Balak to a person who repeatedly tests a locked door, refusing to accept that it will not open. Similarly, Balak refused to accept that Hashem would not permit a curse upon Israel.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchos Avodas Kochavim 1:1-2) uses this episode to illustrate the futility of seeking supernatural intervention against the Jewish people. Bilaam, though a prophet, could not override Hashem’s will. Rambam teaches that this narrative reinforces the principle that no force—human or divine—can oppose the divine protection granted to Israel.
Key Lessons