Among the diverse voices of prophecy in Scripture, the utterances of Balaam, a Mesopotamian soothsayer from Pethor near the Euphrates, stand out as peculiar yet significant. Though not an Israelite, Balaam son of Beor is given three chapters in the book of Numbers to deliver prophecies, prompted by Balak, the king of Moab, who sought to curse Israel for money and honor. Despite his unrighteous character and later actions leading Israel into sin, resulting in the death of 24,000, his prophecies remain true within God's Word. Balaam's background reveals him as a descendant of diviners, known for cursing, with a name meaning "devourer" and his father Beor's name meaning "burning," both hinting at destruction. His role as a soothsayer, rather than a true prophet of God, underscores his dubious nature, yet God uses him to convey divine messages. The setting of these prophecies occurs just before Israel's entrance into the Promised Land, reiterating God's promises and serving as a reminder of His fulfillment to the people. In the first prophecy, Balak compels Balaam to curse Israel from a high place of Baal, where he witnesses the vast, uncountable camp of Israel, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham of descendants as numerous as the dust of the earth. Instead of a curse, God places a blessing in Balaam's mouth, noting Israel's separation by covenant as a people dwelling alone, bound to God as a special treasure and holy nation. Balaam expresses a wish to be included under this covenant, desiring the blessings that come from blessing Israel. The second prophecy occurs atop Mount Pisgah, where Balak hopes a limited view of Israel's camp might enable a curse. Again, Balaam offers sacrifices, but God meets him personally, ensuring words of blessing rather than cursing. Balaam admits his powerlessness before God, affirming that God will not renege on His promises to His people at this pivotal moment. He declares that God sees Israel not for their sins but as His kingdom, with Him as their King, unwilling to curse His own. Balaam describes Israel as a lion, symbolizing regal power and predatory mastery, reflecting the leadership of Judah and foreshadowing a great King to come, under God's inspiration.