And Balak’s anger was kindled against Balaam, and he smote his hands together: and Balak said unto Balaam, I called thee to curse mine enemies, and, behold, thou hast altogether blessed them these three times.
Balak became furious with Balaam and clapped his hands together in anger. Balak said to Balaam, 'I called you here to curse my enemies, but instead you have blessed them three times!'
King Balak is furious because the prophet Balaam blessed Israel three times instead of cursing them as he was hired to do.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Numbers, the Israelites were encamped near the land of Moab during their wilderness journey, and King Balak of Moab feared their growing strength and numbers. He hired Balaam, a pagan prophet from a distant region, to curse the Israelites in hopes of defeating them in battle. However, God directly intervened, compelling Balaam to bless the Israelites instead, which infuriated Balak as seen in this verse.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.