Balak is a figure in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Numbers (Numbers 22-24), who is the king of Moab during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The name Balak is Hebrew for "waster" or "destroyer," reflecting his role in attempting to impede the Israelites' journey. In the biblical narrative, Balak, fearing the advancing Israelites, hires the prophet Balaam to curse them, but Balaam ultimately blesses them instead, much to Balak's dismay. This story is significant in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions, each offering different interpretations of the events. In Islamic tradition, Balak is known as Bilqis, although this is a different figure in some interpretations. The story of Balak and Balaam is also referenced in the New Testament, particularly in the Epistle to the Corinthians and the Epistle to the Philippians, where Balaam's donkey is mentioned as an example of a creature that could speak and reason.
Biblical character
Balak was a king of Moab described in the Book of Numbers in the Hebrew Bible, where his dealings with the prophet and Midianite sorcerer Balaam are recounted. Balak tried to engage Balaam for the purpose of cursing the migrating Israelites. The story of Balak is detailed in Numbers 22–24, Judges 11:25, and Micah 6:5. According to Numbers 22:2, and Joshua 24:9, Balak was the son of Zippor.