Then, we read the story of Balak. Balak, the king of Moab, calls upon his prophet Balaam to curse the people of Israel. The Torah sees Balaam as a true prophet even though he is from a foreign nation. However, G-d tells Balaam that he cannot curse Israel.

Balak calls Balaam to come to the palace. However, Balaam refuses because he cannot disobey G-d. Ultimately, G-d tells Balaam is given permission to travel with Balak but only if he heeds the divine command.

The episode of Balaam's donkey has been the source of much discussion in rabbinic commentary. A messenger from G-d threatens Balaam's life. Only the Balaam's donkey perceives the presence of the messenger and refuses to continue in its path. Balaam hits the donkey. The donkey "speaks" and defends his loyalty to his master. Obviously, the mythological motif of the speaking donkey would evoke the commentators' response. The messenger from G-d defends the donkey's behavior in protecting his master's life three times.

Balaam meets up with King Balak. The two Moabites offer seven bulls and seven rams as a sacrificial offering. G-d inspires Balaam with his first words of blessing. "It is a people that shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations."

Balaam presents a second offering of seven bulls and seven rams. Again, words of blessing proceed from the pagan prophet. "For there is no enchantment with Jacob, neither is there any divination with Israel." Scholars understand this verse to be teaching that magical forces control the pagan nations. However, Israel's destiny is created by her G-d.

The third episode of sacrifice and prophecy ensues. This prophecy of Balaam has been enshrined in Jewish prayer. Mah tovu are the traditional first words uttered upon entering the synagogue. "How goodly are your tents, O Jacob, your dwellings O Israel! As valleys stretched out, as gardens by the river-side, as aloes planted of the L-rd, as cedars beside the waters." Balak is enraged by Balaam's prophecy and dismisses him. Balaam's departing words speak of Israel's ascendancy over her enemies. "There shall step forth a star out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel." The two men depart from one another.

Numbers chapter 25 shares the episode of the sin of Baal Peor. An Israelite male and a Midianite woman are the driving force behind the worship of Baal. Pinchas, Aaron's grandson, kills the leaders of the revolt. A horrific plague that has killed many Israelites ceases.