And Balak said unto Balaam, Did I not earnestly send unto thee to call thee? wherefore camest thou not unto me? am I not able indeed to promote thee to honour?
Balak said to Balaam, 'Didn't I urgently send messengers to summon you? Why didn't you come to me right away? Am I not able to give you great honor and rewards?'
King Balak is frustrated with Balaam for not coming immediately when first summoned, and he's reminding Balaam of the rewards and honor he could have received.
📚 Historical Context
King Balak of Moab had hired the prophet Balaam to curse the Israelites who were camped near his territory. Balaam had initially refused Balak's first messengers, waiting for God's permission before finally agreeing to come. This created tension because ancient kings expected immediate obedience when they summoned someone, especially when offering payment and honor.
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