Weekly Torah portion

Parascha Balak בלק

Numbers (Bamidbar) · Numbers 22:2-25:9

„Balak (The name of the King of Moab)"

Summary

King Balak of Moab grows fearful of the Israelites' military success and recruits a famous sorcerer named Balaam to place a spiritual curse upon the nation.

Despite being warned by G-d and confronted by a speaking donkey, Balaam attempts to curse Israel three times, but G-d transforms his words into beautiful blessings instead.

The portion concludes with a tragic shift as the Israelites fall into idolatry with the Midianites, leading to a plague that is only stopped by the zealotry of Phinehas.

People

Balak
The King of Moab who sought to destroy Israel through supernatural means.
Balaam
A non-Jewish prophet hired to curse the Israelites, known for his unique spiritual powers.
The Donkey
A miraculous animal that saw an angel and spoke to its master, Balaam.
Phinehas
The grandson of Aaron who took decisive action to stop the public sin and plague.

Key commandments (mitzvot)

Traditionally no commandments are counted in this portion.

Full text

Quiz & badge

Answer every question correctly to earn the badge.

1. What unusual event happened while Balaam was riding his donkey?

2. Which famous phrase did Balaam say when he saw the Israelite camp?

3. Why did Balak hire Balaam?

4. How many times did Balaam ultimately try to curse Israel?