Dictionary/Ecclesiastical/Balaam

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Balaam. Prophet or diviner of the city of Pethora,on the Euphrates. Balak, king of Moab, having seen the hosts of Israel, and fearing they would attack his country, sent for Balaam to come and curse them. His messengers having declared their errand, Balaam, during the night, consulted God, who forbade his going. Balak afterward sent others, whom Balaam finally accompanied, contrary to the will of God, who sent an angel to stop him on the way. Here occurred the miracle of Balaam's ass. But instead of cursing he blessed the children of Israel. See Num. xxii. Balaam and Balak were killed in the year 1461 B.C.