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Balak - Do Not Go/Go "with them"
#1
The Hebrew language uses different words for "with them" in Numbers 22 verses 12 and 35.

Verse 12 uses the Hebrew word "imahem"

Verse 35 uses the Hebrew word "itam"

imahem means "with them mentally as well as physically, going along with their plans.

itam means "with them physically but not mentally. In other words Balaam could accompany them but not share their purpose or intention.

G-d was angry in verse 21 as Balaam went "im" them, in other words he identified with their mission.

But we see in verse 35, the angel of God tells Balaam to go "im" the men. That seems to be against what G-d originally wanted.

Balaam already asked G-d once and received an answer, why would he ask another time? Did he think G-d would change his mind?

G-d does not change His mind yet Balaam invited a second set of messengers to "wait overnight in case G-d changed His mind".

So was it really about G-d's answer, or did Balaam already not accepted the divine refusal?

G-d does not force His will upon us. When G-d speaks and we do not listen, He does not intervene to save us from our choices. That would take away our free will.

The Sages say "Man is led down the path he chooses to tread"


Excerpt from Rabbi Jonathan Saks Book Covennant & Conversation - Numbers: The Wilderness Years
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#2
Thanks searchinmyroots for this story. So a king from Moab sent all the way north to the Euphrates to get Balaam who was somehow a famous and influential man, and Balak thought Balaam could change the future in his favor.

Moab became terrified of the people... and one man should change this situation. Apparently they had great faith in him.

Perhaps Balaam had relatives from Moab and they were closer to his heart than Israel. On the other hand, the voice of G‑d in his ear. But what about Moab, what will happen to them if he obeys? They are SO nice to him time and time again and HE is their only hope.

"Man is led down the path he chooses to tread"... Yes, sometimes things feel good, but it turns out they aren't in the long run.
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