The Israelites camped in Moab’s valley near the Jordan River. King Balak of Moab feared them and, with the Midianites, sent for Balaam, a prophet, to curse the Israelites.

Balaam initially refused, as God told him not to curse the blessed people. After the king sent a richer delegation, God allowed Balaam to go but warned him to speak only God’s words.

On the way, Balaam’s donkey saw the Angel of the Lord blocking the path and tried to avoid him. Balaam beat the donkey three times. Then, God made the donkey speak, questioning Balaam’s cruelty. Balaam’s eyes were opened, and he saw the angel, who warned him to be careful but allowed him to continue to Moab, speaking only what God instructed.