Numbers 22:2-25:9

Balak’s plan unfolds in the Torah portion that bears his name. This section showcases a fascinating narrative where human intent is thwarted by divine intervention. As Balaam sets out to carry out Balak’s wishes, God steps in at several key moments. The pivotal scene with Balaam’s talking donkey offers an unexpected twist, reminding readers of the significant power of divine intervention and communication, often through unexpected means.

Balak, king of Moab, faced a significant problem. He saw the Israelites camping nearby and felt threatened. His fear led him to hire Balaam, a known soothsayer, to curse the Israelites to prevent them from overpowering his people.

Each time Balaam attempts to curse Israel, he ends up blessing them instead. This reversal not only frustrates Balak but highlights a central theme: God’s intent prevails, defying human manipulation. The recurring blessings emphasize that God’s plans for His people can’t be easily disrupted or overridden by external forces.

This narrative sets an intriguing stage for exploring deeper spiritual truths and dynamic interactions between human plans and divine will. It’s a powerful reminder of the protective cushion around Israel, reflecting a pattern of divine safeguarding that’s woven through their history.

Understanding the context and characters in this portion is crucial to comprehending the broader Messianic implications and how these themes carry forward into the teachings and life of Yeshua. They paint a picture of God’s faithfulness and the mystery of His ways, inviting us to trust in His ultimate plan.

Messianic Insights: Finding Messiah Yeshua in Balak

In the story of Balak and Balaam, there’s a significant prophecy tucked away in Numbers 24:17. Balaam declares, “I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.” This mysterious statement has long been revered by Messianic scholars as a vision of the coming Messiah, Yeshua.

He will be great, he will be called Son of HaElyon. ADONAI, God, will give him the throne of his forefather David; and he will rule the House of Yaakov forever — there will be no end to his Kingdom.”
(Luke 1:32-33 CJB)

Many see the star and scepter as direct symbols tied to Yeshua’s birth and sovereignty. The star is often associated with the Star of Bethlehem, guiding the wise men to Jesus, while the scepter signifies royal authority, one that Yeshua embodies as the King of Kings.

This narrative cues an understanding of how God’s plans can manifest through unexpected avenues, much like how Jesus often taught and lived against societal and religious expectations. Yeshua’s ministry echoes the unpredictability of divine action seen in the Balaam narrative, emphasizing compassion and righteousness where human calculations fail.

When Yeshua had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at the way he taught, for he was not instructing them like their Torah-teachers but as one who had authority himself.
(Matthew 7:28-29 CJB)

Yeshua’s approach to curses—often turning them into blessings—mirrors the reversal seen in Balaam’s attempts. For instance, Jesus teaches to bless those who curse us and pray for those who mistreat us, highlighting a supernatural way of countering negativity with love. His sermon on the mount pushes this further, reinforcing the notion that blessings linger where curses attempt to creep.

Exploring these elements lends a deeper understanding of Jesus’ fulfillment of these prophecies and his embodiment of principles that turn adversity into divine opportunity. It invites believers to see how Yeshua’s life and teachings are a continuation and fulfillment of age-old divine promises, unyielding to worldly pressure.

Living the Message: Life Applications for Followers of Yeshua

The story of Balak and Balaam is so much more than just an ancient tale; it’s packed with lessons that resonate with followers of Yeshua today. At its core, it stands as a testament to the power of divine blessing over worldly curses, a truth that believers can carry into daily life.

Yeshua’s teachings encourage followers to transform how they approach adversity, much like how Balaam’s curses were turned into blessings. When faced with opposition or negativity, applying Jesus’ lesson of loving your enemies and praying for those who persecute you can turn potential downfall into growth.

Consider how Yeshua trusted in divine providence even during his trials. His unwavering faith sets an example for believers facing their own challenges, encouraging them to rely on God’s plan, especially when facing uncertain or hostile situations. Modern-day believers find strength in embracing this trust, choosing to see beyond immediate adversity, just as the Israelites were protected despite Balak’s intentions. It serves as a reminder to stay rooted in faith, confident that God’s protection endures.

Moreover, embodying a life characterized by blessing and servitude echoes the transformation seen in the Israelites’ story. As God turned intended curses to blessings, believers are called to be vessels of peace and encouragement, impacting others positively regardless of circumstances.

Ultimately, navigating life with this perspective rooted in Yeshua’s teachings not only aligns with divine principles but builds a robust, resilient faith. The story of Balaam and Balak inspires believers to leverage challenges as opportunities for God’s glory and their growth, reflecting Yeshua’s transformative message in every interaction.

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Dale Solberg is a guest writer at Messianic Torah Portion offering a commentary and devotional thoughts from a Messianic Perspective on each week’s Torah reading. His views and opinions do not necessarily reflect those of The Messianic Light. You can reach Dale at dale@messianictorahportion.com.

Unless otherwise noted, Scripture quotations are taken from the Complete Jewish Bible, Copyright © 1998 and 2016 by David H. Stern. Used by permission. All copyrights reserved worldwide.

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