Numbers 23:2 — Word Study
WLCוַיַּ֣עַשׂ בָּלָ֔ק כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֣ר בִּלְעָ֑ם וַיַּ֨עַל בָּלָ֧ק וּבִלְעָ֛ם פָּ֥ר וָאַ֖יִל בַּמִּזְבֵּֽחַ׃
BSASo BalakBâlâq didʻâsâh▸ asʼăsher BalaamBilʻâm had instructeddâbar■ [spoken, given direction] and BalakBâlâq and BalaamBilʻâm offeredʻâlâh▸ [sacrificed, presented as a gift] a bullpar [young ox, bullock] and a ramʼayil [male sheep] on each altarmizbêach [place of sacrifice, sacred table]
| Greek | English | Parsing |
|---|---|---|
| וַיַּ֣עַשׂ | and he did | Verb, Qal, sequential imperfect third person masculine singular |
| בָּלָ֔ק | Balak | Noun proper masculine |
| כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר | just as | Preposition, particle |
| דִּבֶּ֣ר | he had spoken | Verb, Piel, perfect third person masculine singular |
| בִּלְעָ֑ם | Balaam | Noun proper masculine |
| וַיַּ֨עַל | and he offered up | Verb, Hiphil, sequential imperfect third person masculine singular |
| בָּלָ֧ק | Balak | Noun proper masculine |
| וּבִלְעָ֛ם | and Balaam | Conjunction, noun proper masculine |
| פָּ֥ר | a young bull | Noun common, masculine singular absolute |
| וָאַ֖יִל | and a ram | Conjunction, noun common masculine singular absolute |
| בַּמִּזְבֵּֽחַ׃ | on the altar | Preposition, noun common masculine singular absolute |
Every word in the verse. Click a row to open it in the panel on the left.
| BSB | So Balak did as Balaam had instructed, and Balak and Balaam offered a bull and a ram on each altar. |
| KJV | And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram. |
| ASV | And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram. |
| YLT | And Balak doth as Balaam hath spoken, and Balak — Balaam also — offereth a bullock and a ram on the altar, |
| WEB | Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bull and a ram. |
| BBE | And Balak did as Balaam had said; and Balak and Balaam made an offering on every altar of an ox and a male sheep. |
Where they part company is in the nuances of the verbs used — see How Translations Differ.
The main clause is supported by two subordinate clauses and a prepositional phrase, creating a complex structure that emphasizes the actions taken.
6 commentators on this verse
Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them ›
clause
subjectבָּלָק
verbעָשָׂה
The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.
Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.
Deep Study — Numbers 23:2
Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.
Context — The Account of Balak and Balaamgenerated
Numbers 23:2 describes how Balak, the king of Moab, followed the instructions given by Balaam, a prophet. This event occurs within the larger narrative where Balak seeks to curse the Israelites but instead ends up making offerings to God. The context highlights the tension between divine intent and human action, as Balak's actions are part of a larger plan that ultimately leads to blessings for Israel.
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Numbers 23:14–30 | So Balak took him to the field of Zophim, to the top of Pisgah, where he built seven altars and offered a bull and a ram on each altar. |
The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 1 reference, hung on the phrase they belong to
The Key Word — עָשָׂה, asahgenerated
The verb עָשָׂה (asah) means to do or make and is used extensively throughout the Hebrew Bible. It encompasses a range of actions, including creating, performing, and observing. In this verse, it indicates Balak's compliance with Balaam's directive, showcasing the importance of obedience in ritual practices.
The parsing indicates that this verb is in the sequential imperfect form, which suggests ongoing action in the narrative. This highlights Balak's active role in the sacrificial process, emphasizing that his actions were deliberate and in accordance with Balaam's instructions.
How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated
The verse is rendered in the Berean Standard Bible as well as the KJV, ASV, YLT, WEB, and BBE, all of which agree on the essential meaning of the actions taken by Balak and Balaam.
Sentence Structuregenerated
The finite verb וַיַּ֣עַשׂ (vai.Ya.'as) governs the main clause, indicating that Balak acted according to Balaam's instructions. This is followed by two additional clauses detailing the actions taken: the offering of a bull and a ram on the altar.
The structure emphasizes Balak's obedience and the significance of the sacrifices being made, with the verb 'offered' also indicating a ritualistic act that is central to the worship of God.
Septuagint Backgroundgenerated
In the Septuagint, the Hebrew verb עָשָׂה is translated as ἐποίησεν (epoiēsen), which also means 'to make' or 'to do.' This choice reflects a direct correspondence in meaning, maintaining the sense of action and compliance.
The use of the same verb in both languages indicates a shared understanding of the importance of these actions within the context of worship and sacrifice.
In plain words — the whole versegenerated
Numbers 23:2 tells us that Balak followed Balaam's instructions by offering sacrifices. Balak and Balaam together presented a bull and a ram on each altar, which reflects their commitment to the rituals of worship.
Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated
Balak's offering signifies his attempt to seek favor or guidance from God, reflecting the importance of sacrifices in ancient worship practices.
Balak consulted Balaam because he believed Balaam had the power to bless or curse the Israelites, and he sought to manipulate this power for his own purposes.
The bull and ram are significant as they were commonly used in sacrificial offerings, representing strength and purity, which were essential for pleasing God.
This verse connects to the broader narrative by illustrating the lengths to which Balak would go to try to curse Israel, while also highlighting God's sovereignty over the situation.
Reflection Questionsgenerated
- What does this passage teach about obedience to God's instructions?
- How can we apply the principles of sacrifice and worship in our own lives today?
- In what ways do we see the tension between human intentions and God's plans in this narrative?
- How does understanding the cultural significance of sacrifices enhance our reading of this text?
Commentators on this verse — 6 expositors, verse by verse
Each of these wrote on Numbers 23:2 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.
John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleAnd Balak did as Balaam had spoken,.... Ordered seven altars to be built, and prepared seven bullocks and rams for sacrifice: and Balak and Balsam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram; both
Read John Gill on Numbers 23 →Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's CommentaryAnd Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram. No JFB commentary on this verse.
Read Robert Jamieson on Numbers 23 →Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy BibleBalak by procuring them and Balaam by offering them; through in ancient times kings’ were priests also, and so might perform a priestly work, as this was.
Read Matthew Poole on Numbers 23 →John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New TestamentsNumbers 23:2 And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on [every] altar a bullock and a ram.Ver. 2. And Balak did.] Ready to conform to any religion, so he might obtain his purposes. God abhors these lukewarm neuter passives, that are inter coelum terramque penduli, that halt between two, that commit idolatry between the porch and the altar, with those five and twenty miscreants.
Read John Trapp on Numbers 23 →Charles John Ellicott1819–1905Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers(2) And Balak and Balaam offered.—It is more probable that Balak, as a king, performed priestly functions than that Balaam performed them alone. (See Note on Numbers 22:40.)
Read Charles John Ellicott on Numbers 23 →CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges1–6. Balaam demanded a seven-fold sacrifice, in order to propitiate God, that He might be willing to give His prophet a message. Balak complied with the request, hoping that the message might be a curse.
Read Cambridge on Numbers 23 →The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company
Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.
Modern formal
So Balak did as Balaam had instructed, and Balak and Balaam offered a bull and a ram on each altar.
Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bull and a ram.
So Balak did as Balaam had instructed, and Balak and Balaam offered a bull and a ram on each altar.
So Balak did just as Balaam had said. Balak and Balaam then offered on each altar a bull and a ram.
Tyndale line
And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram.
And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram.
And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram.
And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and Balak and Balaam offered on every altar a bullock and a ram.
And Balak did as Balaam sayd, and Balak and Balaam offred on euery altar a bullocke and a ramme.
Strictly literal
And Balak did as Balaam had said; and Balak and Balaam offered up a bullock and a ram on [each] altar.
And Balak doth as Balaam hath spoken, and Balak — Balaam also — offereth a bullock and a ram on the altar,
And Balak does as Balaam has spoken, and Balak—Balaam also—offers a bullock and a ram on the altar,
And Balak did as Bil'am had spoken; and Balak and Bil'am offered a bullock and a ram on every altar.
So Balak did as Balaam requested. Then Balak and Balaam offered a bull and a ram on every altar.
From the Latin
And when he had done according to the word of Balaam, they laid together a calf and a ram upon every altar.
Simplified
Balak did as Balaam had said, and together they offered a bull and a ram on each altar.
And Balak did as Balaam had said; and Balak and Balaam made an offering on every altar of an ox and a male sheep.
Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.
The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank
This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.
Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.
The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran
The Masoretic Text is supported by the Samaritan Pentateuch, which agrees word for word. The Dead Sea Scrolls show partial restoration, but the essence of the text aligns with the Masoretic account.
וַיַּ֣עַשׂ בָּלָ֔ק כַּאֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֣ר בִּלְעָ֑ם וַיַּ֨עַל בָּלָ֧ק וּבִלְעָ֛ם פָּ֥ר וָאַ֖יִל בַּמִּזְבֵּֽחַ׃
8 of the 11 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.
ויעשׂ בלק כאשׁר דבר בלעם ויעל בלק ובלעם פר ואיל במזבח
Agrees with the Masoretic Text here, word for word.
[ויעש] [בלק] [כאשר] [דבר] [בלעם] [ויעל] בלק ובלעם פר [ואיל] במזבח
2 words on the leather — 2 partly restored, 7 supplied entire by an editor.
Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.
The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with
This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.
Lexicons — every word in Numbers 23:2
One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.
Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.
עָשָׂה (asah) is a Hebrew verb meaning to do or make, encompassing a wide range of actions such as producing, preparing, and observing. It can refer to both concrete and abstract activities, including making offerings and attending to tasks. The verb also has forms indicating passive meanings, such as being made or offered. Notably, the Piel form refers to pressing or squeezing.
עָשָׂה 2622 vb. do, make
Qal 2524
do (1560 t.)
deal with
oft. in phr. do kindness with
abs. act, act with effect
make (670 t.)
produce, yield
prepare, esp. of dressing and cooking food
make offering
attend to, put in order
observe, celebrate, religious festival
acquire property of various kinds
appoint priests
bring about of י׳’s effecting a deliverance
use
spend, pass, days of life
Niph.
97be done
be made, of concr. things
be produced from vine
be prepared, of food
be offered
be observed, passover
be used
Pu. I was made
base
[עָשָׂה] vb. Pi. press, squeeze
base
H6213a עָשָׂה do, make .. . do (1560 + t.)
. deal with
. oft. in phr. do kindness with
. abs. act, act with effect
. . make (670 + t.)
. produce, yield
. prepare, esp. of dressing and cooking food
. make offering
. attend to, put in order
. observe, celebrate, religious festival
. acquire property of various kinds
. appoint priests
. bring about of י׳’s effecting a deliverance
. use
. spend, pass, days of life
. . be done
. . be made, of concr. things
. be produced from vine
. be prepared, of food
. be offered
. be observed, passover
. be used
. I was made
H6213b עָשָׂה Pi. press, squeeze
6213 `asah aw-saw'
a primitive root; to do or make, in the broadest sense and
widest application (as follows):--accomplish, advance,
appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth,
bruise, be busy, X certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal
(with), deck, + displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in)
execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, + feast, (fight-)ing man, +
finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go
about, govern, grant, great, + hinder, hold ((a feast)), X
indeed, + be industrious, + journey, keep, labour, maintain,
make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, + officer, pare,
bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure,
provide, put, requite, X sacrifice, serve, set, shew, X sin,
spend, X surely, take, X thoroughly, trim, X very, + vex, be
(warr-)ior, work(-man), yield, use.
עָשָׂה (a.sah) — to make: do.
: do/perform
1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to do, work, make, produce
1a1a) to do
1a1b) to work
1a1c) to deal (with)
1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect
1a2) to make
1a2a) to make
1a2b) to produce
1a2c) to prepare
1a2d) to make (an offering)
1a2e) to attend to, put in order
1a2f) to observe, celebrate
1a2g) to acquire (property)
1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute
1a2i) to bring about
1a2j) to use
1a2k) to spend, pass
1b) (Niphal)
1b1) to be done
1b2) to be made
1b3) to be produced
1b4) to be offered
1b5) to be observed
1b6) to be used
1c) (Pual) to be made
עָשָׂה (a.sah) — to press.
(Piel) to press, squeeze
עָשָׂה (a.sah) — to make.
: make(OBJECT)
1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to do, work, make, produce
1a1a) to do
1a1b) to work
1a1c) to deal (with)
1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect
1a2) to make
1a2a) to make
1a2b) to produce
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms — Verb · Qal · sequential imperfect third person masculine singularHc/Vqw3ms
ha: The fifth letter of the Hebrew alphabet; transliterated in this Encyclopedia as "h." It came also to be used for the number 5. For name, etc., see ALPHABET.
בָּלָק (Balaq) refers to Balak, a Moabite king known for hiring Balaam to curse Israel. The name is derived from a root meaning 'waster' or 'devastator.' He is first mentioned in Numbers 22:2, and his lineage is noted as the son of Zippor.
בָּלָק n.pr.m. (devastator) king of Moab
base
H1111 בָּלָק
1111 Balaq baw-lawk'
from 1110; waster; Balak, a Moabitish king:--Balak.
see HEBREW for 01110
בָּלָק (ba.laq) — Balak.
A man of the Moabites living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Num.22.2;
son of: Zippor (H6834)
Also named: Balak (Βαλάκ "Balak" G0904)
§ Balak = "devastator"
a king of Moab who hired Balaam to curse Israel
N-proper — Noun proper masculineHNpm
Balak
Empty; spoiler, a son of Zippor, and king of the Moabites (Num. 22:2, 4). From fear of the Israelites, who were encamped near the confines of his territory, he applied to Balaam (q.v.) to curse them; but in vain (Josh. 24:9).
(spoiler), son of Zippor, king of the Moabites, who hired Balaam to curse the Israelites; but his designs were frustrated int he manner recorded in (Numbers 22:24) (B.C. 1451.)
King of Moab, when the Israelites were drawing near the promised land. He was filled with terror lest they should attack and destroy him, as they had Sihon and Og, and implored the soothsayer Balaam to come and curse them. His fears and his devices were both in vain, De 2:9. See BALAAM. He found he had nothing to fear from Israel if at peace with them, and nothing to hope if at war with them.
The Hebrew word אֲשֶׁר (*asher*) is a relative pronoun that can mean 'who,' 'which,' or 'that.' It serves various grammatical functions, including as an adverb or conjunction, indicating relationships between clauses, places, or conditions. Variants like בַאֲשֶׁר (*ba-asher*), מֵאֲשֶׁר (*me-asher*), and כַּאֲשֶׁר (*ka-asher*) expand its usage to specific contexts such as location, causation, and time.
אֲשֶׁר part. of relation A sign of relation, bringing the clause introduced by it into relation with an antecedent clause.
base
בַאֲשֶׁר
in (that) which
adv. in (the place) where
conj. in that, inasmuch as
on account of whom?
base
מֵאֲשֶׁר
from (or than) that which
adv. from (the place) where
conj. from (the fact) that …, since
base
כַּאֲשֶׁר conj. according as, as, when
according to that which, according as, as
with a causal force, in so far as, since
with a temporal force, when
base
H834a אֲשֶׁר part. of relation A sign of relation, bringing the clause introduced by it into relation with an antecedent clause. H834b בַאֲשֶׁר . in (that) which
. adv. in (the place) where
. conj. in that, inasmuch as
. on account of whom?
H834c מֵאֲשֶׁר . from (or than) that which
. adv. from (the place) where
. conj. from (the fact) that …, since
H834d כַּאֲשֶׁר conj. according as, as, when . according to that which, according as, as
. with a causal force, in so far as, since
. with a temporal force, when
834 'aher ash-er'
a primitive relative pronoun (of every gender and number);
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction)
when, where, how, because, in order that, etc.:--X after, X
alike, as (soon as), because, X every, for, + forasmuch, +
from whence, + how(-soever), X if, (so) that ((thing) which,
wherein), X though, + until, + whatsoever, when, where
(+ -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, +
whither(- soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is
indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun
expletively, used to show the connection.
אֲשֶׁר (a.sher) — which.
A: 1) (relative part.)
1a) which, who
1b) that which
2) (conj)
2a) that (in obj clause)
2b) when
2c) since
2d) as
2e) conditional if
B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which
2) (adv)
2a) where
3) (conj)
3a) in that, inasmuch as
3b) on account of
C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which
2) from (the place) where
3) from (the fact) that, since
D: Kaph+
1) (conj.), according as, as, when
1a) according to that which, according as, as
1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since
1c) with a temporal force: when
בַאֲשֶׁר (ba.a.sher) — in which.
1) in (that) which
2) (adv)
2a) where
3) (conj)
3a) in that, inasmuch as
3b) on account of
מֵאֲשֶׁר (me.a.sher) — whence.
1) from (or than) that which
2) from (the place) where
3) from (the fact) that, since
כַּאֲשֶׁר (ka.a.sher) — as which.
conj
1) according as, as, when
1a) according to that which, according as, as
Prep | Rel — Preposition · particleHR/Tr
az: Conj. and adverb (usually Greek hos hosper, kathos), designating:
(1) Likeness: (a) between nouns (Ge 3:5; Jud 6:5; Php 2:8; Heb 11:27,29); (b) between verbs (Lu 6:36; Joh 5:30; 1Co 10:7); (c) between adjectives (1Co 15:48).
(2) Limitation (with respect to a particular aspect or relation) (1Pe 4:15,16).
דָבַר (dabar) is a Hebrew verb primarily meaning 'to speak.' It encompasses a range of actions including declaring, commanding, and conversing. The root suggests a figurative use of words, with some entries noting a rare destructive sense of subduing. Various forms of the verb indicate different nuances, such as speaking with one another or making promises.
[דָבַר] 1142 vb. speak (original mng. dub.)
Qal speak
Niph. reciprocal sense, speak with one another, talk
Pi. speak
Pu. in the day when she may be spoken for
Hithp. speaking this word
Hiph. either leads subject, or puts to flight, fig. for subdues
base
H1696 דָבַר speak (original mng. dub.)
1696 dabar daw-bar'
a primitive root; perhaps properly, to arrange; but used
figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive
sense) to subdue:--answer, appoint, bid, command, commune,
declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse,
say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think,
use (entreaties), utter, X well, X work.
דָבַר (da.var) — to speak: speak.
: speak/tell/command
1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing
1a) (Qal) to speak
1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk
1c) (Piel)
1c1) to speak
1c2) to promise
1d) (Pual) to be spoken
1e) (Hithpael) to speak
1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight
דָבַר (da.var) — to speak: subdue.
: subdue
1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing
1a) (Qal) to speak
1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk
1c) (Piel)
1c1) to speak
1c2) to promise
1d) (Pual) to be spoken
1e) (Hithpael) to speak
1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight
דָבַר (da.var) — to speak: promise.
: promise/declare
1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing
1a) (Qal) to speak
1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk
1c) (Piel)
1c1) to speak
1c2) to promise
1d) (Pual) to be spoken
1e) (Hithpael) to speak
V-Piel-Perf-3ms — Verb · Piel · perfect third person masculine singularHVpp3ms
בִּלְעָם (Bil`am) refers to both a Mesopotamian prophet known for his prophetic abilities and a town in Manasseh. The name is interpreted as meaning 'not of the people.' The entries indicate that it is derived from two Hebrew roots, but there is no significant disagreement among the lexicons regarding its meanings.
base
H1109a בִּלְעָם Balaam H1109b בִּלְעָם town in Manasseh
1109 Bil`am bil-awm'
probably from 1077 and 5971; not (of the) people, i.e.
foreigner; Bilam, a Mesopotamian prophet; also a place in
Palestine:--Balaam, Bileam.
see HEBREW for 01077
see HEBREW for 05971
בִּלְעָם (bil.am) — Balaam.
A man living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Num.22.5;
son of: Beor (H1160H)
Also named: Balaam (Βαλαάμ "Balaam" G0903)
§ Balaam = "not of the people"
the son of Beor, a man endowed with the gift of prophecy
בִּלְעָם (bil.am) — Bileam.
Balaam = "not of the people"
a town in Manasseh
Another name of yiv.le.am (יִבְלְעָם "Ibleam" H2991)
N-proper — Noun proper masculineHNpm
Balaam
Lord of the people; foreigner or glutton, as interpreted by others, the son of Beor, was a man of some rank among the Midianites (Num. 31:8; comp. 16). He resided at Pethor (Deut. 23:4), in Mesopotamia (Num. 23:7). It is evident that though dwelling among idolaters he had some knowledge of the true God; and was held in such reputation that it was supposed that he whom he blessed was blessed, and he whom he cursed was cursed. When the Israelites were encamped on the plains of Moab, on the east of Jordan, by Jericho, Balak sent for Balaam “from Aram, out of the mountains of the east,” to curse them; but by the remarkable interposition of God he was utterly unable to fulfil Balak’s wish, however desirous he was to do so. The…
(B.C. 1451), the son of beor, a man endowed with the gift of prophecy. (Numbers 22:5) He is mentioned in conjunction with the five kings of Midian, apparently as a person of the same rank. (Numbers 31:8) cf. Numb 31:16 He seems to have lived at Pethor, (23:4; Numbers 22:5) on the river Euphrates, in Mesopotamia. Such was his reputation that when the Israelites were encamped in the plains of Moab, Balak, the king of Moab, sent for Balaam to curse them. Balaam at first was prohibited by God from going. He was again sent for by the king and again refused, but was at length allowed to go. He yielded to the temptations of riches and honor which Balak set before him; but God’s anger was kindled at this manifestation of determined…
A celebrated diviner, of the city Pethor, on the Euphrates, Nu 22:5. Balak, king of Moab, having seen the multitudes of Israel, and fearing they would attack his country, sent for Balaam, who was famous for his supposed supernatural powers, to come and curse them. Balaam, though eager for gain, was led to ask counsel of God, who forbade his going. Balak afterwards sent other deputies, whom Balaam finally accompanied without the approval of God, who sent an angel to meet and warn him in the way. Here occurred the miracle of Balaam’s ass, Nu 22:22,35. But instead of cursing, he was constrained by the Spirit of God to bless the children of Israel. This he did a second and a third time, to the extreme mortification of Balak, who dismissed him in great anger. Balaam subsequently…
The Hebrew word עָלָה (alah) means 'to ascend' and encompasses a wide range of meanings, including going up, climbing, and rising in various contexts such as personal, natural, and spiritual. It can refer to actions involving people, animals, vegetation, and even thoughts, and includes nuances of being exalted or offering sacrifices. The word is built from a primitive root and appears in various grammatical forms, indicating different aspects of ascent or elevation.
עָלָה 890 vb. go up, ascend, climb
Qal
of persons, go up, ascend, in local relations
go up, in personal relations
of animals, go or come up
of vegetation, spring up, grow, shoot forth
of natural phenom., go up, rise
of inanimate things, instead of passive construction
of thoughts
come up before God, arrogance
go up, extend, of boundary
excel
Niph.
be brought up
be taken up
pass., be taken up, away
reflex., take oneself away from, get up from
reflex.: take oneself away
be exalted, of God
Hiph.
bring up persons
in personal relations
bring up animals
cause to ascend
mentally
offer a present; bring up tithe to
exalt
cause to ascend (in flame), offer sacrifice
Hoph.
be carried away
be taken up into, inserted in
be offered
Hithp. lift oneself
base
H5927 עָלָה go up, ascend, climb .. of persons, go up, ascend, in local relations
. go up, in personal relations
. of animals, go or come up
. of vegetation, spring up, grow, shoot forth
. of natural phenom., go up, rise
. of inanimate things, instead of passive construction
. of thoughts
. come up before God, arrogance
. go up, extend, of boundary
. excel
. . . be brought up
. be taken up
. . pass., be taken up, away
. reflex., take oneself away from, get up from
. reflex.: take oneself away
. be exalted, of God
. . bring up persons
. in personal relations
. bring up animals
. cause to ascend
. mentally
. offer a present; bring up tithe to
. exalt
. cause to ascend (in flame), offer sacrifice
. . be carried away
. be taken up into, inserted in
. be offered
. lift oneself
5927 `alah aw-law'
a primitive root; to ascend, intransitively (be high) or
actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary
and secondary, literal and figurative (as follow):--arise
(up), (cause to) ascend up, at once, break (the day) (up),
bring (up), (cause to) burn, carry up, cast up, + shew, climb
(up), (cause to, make to) come (up), cut off, dawn, depart,
exalt, excel, fall, fetch up, get up, (make to) go (away, up);
grow (over) increase, lay, leap, levy, lift (self) up, light,
(make) up, X mention, mount up, offer, make to pay, + perfect,
prefer, put (on), raise, recover, restore, (make to) rise
(up), scale, set (up), shoot forth (up), (begin to) spring
(up), stir up, take away (up), work.
עָלָה (a.lah) — to ascend: rise.
: rise/go
1) to go up, ascend, climb
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to go up, ascend
1a2) to meet, visit, follow, depart, withdraw, retreat
1a3) to go up, come up (of animals)
1a4) to spring up, grow, shoot forth (of vegetation)
1a5) to go up, go up over, rise (of natural phenomenon)
1a6) to come up (before God)
1a7) to go up, go up over, extend (of boundary)
1a8) to excel, be superior to
1b) (Niphal)
1b1) to be taken up, be brought up, be taken away
1b2) to take oneself away
1b3) to be exalted
1c) (Hiphil)
1c1) to bring up, cause to ascend or climb, cause to go up
1c2) to bring up, bring against, take away
1c3) to bring up, draw up, train
1c4) to cause to ascend
1c5) to rouse, stir up (mentally)
1c6) to offer, bring up (of gifts)
1c7) to exalt
1c8) to cause to ascend, offer
1d) (Hophal)
1d1) to be carried away, be led up
1d2) to be taken up into, be inserted in
1d3) to be offered
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms — Verb · Hiphil · sequential imperfect third person masculine singularHc/Vhw3ms
בָּלָק (Balaq) refers to Balak, a Moabite king known for hiring Balaam to curse Israel. The name is derived from a root meaning 'waster' or 'devastator.' He is first mentioned in Numbers 22:2, and his lineage is noted as the son of Zippor.
בָּלָק n.pr.m. (devastator) king of Moab
base
H1111 בָּלָק
1111 Balaq baw-lawk'
from 1110; waster; Balak, a Moabitish king:--Balak.
see HEBREW for 01110
בָּלָק (ba.laq) — Balak.
A man of the Moabites living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Num.22.2;
son of: Zippor (H6834)
Also named: Balak (Βαλάκ "Balak" G0904)
§ Balak = "devastator"
a king of Moab who hired Balaam to curse Israel
N-proper — Noun proper masculineHNpm
Balak
Empty; spoiler, a son of Zippor, and king of the Moabites (Num. 22:2, 4). From fear of the Israelites, who were encamped near the confines of his territory, he applied to Balaam (q.v.) to curse them; but in vain (Josh. 24:9).
(spoiler), son of Zippor, king of the Moabites, who hired Balaam to curse the Israelites; but his designs were frustrated int he manner recorded in (Numbers 22:24) (B.C. 1451.)
King of Moab, when the Israelites were drawing near the promised land. He was filled with terror lest they should attack and destroy him, as they had Sihon and Og, and implored the soothsayer Balaam to come and curse them. His fears and his devices were both in vain, De 2:9. See BALAAM. He found he had nothing to fear from Israel if at peace with them, and nothing to hope if at war with them.
בִּלְעָם (Bil`am) refers to both a Mesopotamian prophet known for his prophetic abilities and a town in Manasseh. The name is interpreted as meaning 'not of the people.' The entries indicate that it is derived from two Hebrew roots, but there is no significant disagreement among the lexicons regarding its meanings.
base
H1109a בִּלְעָם Balaam H1109b בִּלְעָם town in Manasseh
1109 Bil`am bil-awm'
probably from 1077 and 5971; not (of the) people, i.e.
foreigner; Bilam, a Mesopotamian prophet; also a place in
Palestine:--Balaam, Bileam.
see HEBREW for 01077
see HEBREW for 05971
בִּלְעָם (bil.am) — Balaam.
A man living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Num.22.5;
son of: Beor (H1160H)
Also named: Balaam (Βαλαάμ "Balaam" G0903)
§ Balaam = "not of the people"
the son of Beor, a man endowed with the gift of prophecy
בִּלְעָם (bil.am) — Bileam.
Balaam = "not of the people"
a town in Manasseh
Another name of yiv.le.am (יִבְלְעָם "Ibleam" H2991)
Conj | N-proper — Conjunction · noun proper masculineHC/Npm
Balaam
Lord of the people; foreigner or glutton, as interpreted by others, the son of Beor, was a man of some rank among the Midianites (Num. 31:8; comp. 16). He resided at Pethor (Deut. 23:4), in Mesopotamia (Num. 23:7). It is evident that though dwelling among idolaters he had some knowledge of the true God; and was held in such reputation that it was supposed that he whom he blessed was blessed, and he whom he cursed was cursed. When the Israelites were encamped on the plains of Moab, on the east of Jordan, by Jericho, Balak sent for Balaam “from Aram, out of the mountains of the east,” to curse them; but by the remarkable interposition of God he was utterly unable to fulfil Balak’s wish, however desirous he was to do so. The…
(B.C. 1451), the son of beor, a man endowed with the gift of prophecy. (Numbers 22:5) He is mentioned in conjunction with the five kings of Midian, apparently as a person of the same rank. (Numbers 31:8) cf. Numb 31:16 He seems to have lived at Pethor, (23:4; Numbers 22:5) on the river Euphrates, in Mesopotamia. Such was his reputation that when the Israelites were encamped in the plains of Moab, Balak, the king of Moab, sent for Balaam to curse them. Balaam at first was prohibited by God from going. He was again sent for by the king and again refused, but was at length allowed to go. He yielded to the temptations of riches and honor which Balak set before him; but God’s anger was kindled at this manifestation of determined…
A celebrated diviner, of the city Pethor, on the Euphrates, Nu 22:5. Balak, king of Moab, having seen the multitudes of Israel, and fearing they would attack his country, sent for Balaam, who was famous for his supposed supernatural powers, to come and curse them. Balaam, though eager for gain, was led to ask counsel of God, who forbade his going. Balak afterwards sent other deputies, whom Balaam finally accompanied without the approval of God, who sent an angel to meet and warn him in the way. Here occurred the miracle of Balaam’s ass, Nu 22:22,35. But instead of cursing, he was constrained by the Spirit of God to bless the children of Israel. This he did a second and a third time, to the extreme mortification of Balak, who dismissed him in great anger. Balaam subsequently…
פַּר (par) refers to a young bull or steer. It is derived from a root that suggests strength or breaking forth. The term encompasses meanings like bullock and calf, indicating its use in contexts related to livestock.
פַּר 132 n.m. young bull, steer
base
H6499 פַּר young bull, steer
6499 par par
or par {pawr}; from 6565; a bullock (apparently as breaking
forth in wild strength, or perhaps as dividing the hoof):--(+
young) bull(-ock), calf, ox.
see HEBREW for 06565
פַּר (par) — bullock.
young bull, steer, bullock
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absoluteHNcmsa
אַ֫יִל (ayil) encompasses several meanings, including 'ram,' 'projecting pillar or pilaster,' 'leader or chief,' and 'terebinth.' It is derived from a root meaning strength, suggesting a connection to might and support. The term appears in various contexts, reflecting its diverse applications in the Old Testament.
אַ֫יִל 156 n.m. ram (as leader of flock)
base
אַ֫יִל n.[m.] projecting pillar or pilaster
base
[אַ֫יִל ?] n.m. leader, chief
base
[אַ֫יִל ?] n.m. terebinth
base
H352a אַ֫יִל ram H352b אַ֫יִל projecting pillar or pilaster H352c אַ֫יִל leader, chief H352d אַ֫יִל terebinth
352 'ayil ah'-yil
from the same as 193; properly, strength; hence, anything
strong; specifically a chief (politically); also a ram (from
his strength); a pilaster (as a strong support); an oak or
other strong tree:--mighty (man), lintel, oak, post, ram,
tree.
see HEBREW for 0193
אַ֫יִל (a.yil) — ram.
1) ram
1a) ram (as food)
1b) ram (as sacrifice)
1c) ram (skin dyed red, for tabernacle)
אַ֫יִל (a.yil) — pillar.
pillar, door post, jambs, pilaster
אַ֫יִל (a.yil) — leader.
strong man, leader, chief
אַ֫יִל (a.yil) — terebinth.
mighty tree, terebinth
Aramaic equivalent: i.lan (אִילָן "tree" H0363)
Conj | N-ms — Conjunction · noun common masculine singular absoluteHC/Ncmsa
Ram
Exalted. (1.) The son of Hezron, and one of the ancestors of the royal line (Ruth 4:19). The margin of 1 Chr. 2:9, also Matt. 1:3, 4 and Luke 3:33, have “Aram.”
(2.) One of the sons of Jerahmeel (1 Chr. 2:25, 27).
(3.) A person mentioned in Job 32:2 as founder of a clan to which Elihu belonged. The same as Aram of Gen. 22:21.
(high, exalted). A son of Hezron and the father of Ammin-adab, born in Egypt after Jacob’s migration there. (Ruth 4:19) (B.C. 1706.) In (Matthew 1:3,4) and Luke 3:33 He is called ARAM in the Authorized Version, but RAM in the Revised Version of (Matthew 1:3,4) and ARNI in the Revised Version of (Luke 3:33) The first-born of Jerahmeel, and therefore nephew of the preceding. (1 Chronicles 3:25,27) (B.C. after 1706.) One of the kindred of Elihu. (Job 32:2) Ewald identified this Ram with ARAM in (
elevated; sublime
מִזְבֵּחַ (mizbeach) means 'altar' in Hebrew. It is derived from the root word meaning to slay or kill, indicating its use in sacrificial contexts. The term is consistently used throughout the Old Testament to refer to places of sacrifice and worship.
מִזְבֵּחַ 401 n.m. altar
base
H4196 מִזְבֵּחַ altar
4196 mizbeach miz-bay'-akh
from 2076; an altar:--altar.
see HEBREW for 02076
מִזְבֵּחַ (miz.be.ach) — altar.
altar
Prep | N-ms — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absoluteHRd/Ncmsa
ol'-ter (mizbeach, literally, "place of slaughter or sacrifice," from zabhach, which is found in both senses; bomos, (only in Ac 17:23), thusiasterion):
I. CLASSIFICATION OF HEBREW ALTARS
Importance of the Distinction
II. LAY ALTARS
1. Pre-Mosaic
2. In the Mosaic Age
3. Dangers of the Custom
4. The Mosaic Provisions
III. HORNED ALTARS OF BURNT OFFERING
1. The Tabernacle Altar
2. The Altar of Jos 22
3. The Altar till Solomon
4. The Horned Altar in Use
5. The Temple of Solomon
6. The Altar of Ahaz
7. Ezekiel
8. The Post-exilic Altar
9. Idolatrous and Unlawful Altars
10. The Horns
IV. ALTARS OF INCENSE
V. RECENT ARCHAEOLOGICAL MATERIALS 1. A Gezer Altar
2. The Taanach Altar of Incense
LITERATURE
A. CRITICAL
I. Classification of Hebrew Altars.
Altar
(Heb. mizbe’ah, from a word meaning “to slay”), any structure of earth (Ex. 20:24) or unwrought stone (20:25) on which sacrifices were offered. Altars were generally erected in conspicuous places (Gen. 22:9; Ezek. 6:3; 2 Kings 23:12; 16:4; 23:8; Acts 14:13). The word is used in Heb. 13:10 for the sacrifice offered upon it—the sacrifice Christ offered.
Paul found among the many altars erected in Athens one bearing the inscription, “To the unknown God” (Acts 17:23), or rather “to an [i.e., some]…
The first altar of which we have any account is that built by Noah when he left the ark. (Genesis 8:20) In the early times altars were usually built in certain spots hallowed by religious associations, e.g., where God appeared. (Genesis 12:7; 13:18; 26:25; 35:1) Though generally erected for the offering of sacrifice, in some instances they appear to have been only memorials. (Genesis 12:7; Exodus 17:15,16) Altars were most probably originally made of earth. The law of Moses allowed them to be made of either earth or unhewn stones. (Exodus 20:24,25) I. The Altar of Burnt Offering . It differed in construction at…
A table-like structure, on which sacrifices and incense were offered, built of various materials, usually of stone, but sometimes of brass, etc. It is evident that sacrifices were offered long before the flood; but the first mention of an altar in Scripture is when Noah left the ark. Mention is made of altars reared by Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Moses. The latter was commanded to build an altar of earth, Ex 20:24. If stone was employed, it must be rough and unhewn, probably lest the practice of sculpture should lead them to violate the second commandment. It was not to be furnished with steps, De 27:2-6.
The altars in the Jewish tabernacle, and in the temple at Jerusalem, were the following: 1. The altar of burnt offerings. 2. The altar of incense. 3. The table of showbread, for…