Introduction:
Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, is a complex figure in the biblical narrative, primarily known for his interactions with Balak, the king of Moab, and his subsequent prophecies concerning Israel. His account is found in the Book of Numbers, chapters 22 to 24. Balaam's prophecies are significant as they affirm God's blessing upon Israel and foreshadow the coming of a messianic figure.

Background:
Balaam, son of Beor, is introduced in the context of Israel's journey to the Promised Land. As the Israelites encamped in the plains of Moab, Balak, fearing their numbers and strength, sought Balaam's services to curse Israel. Balaam, known for his ability to bless and curse, was summoned from Pethor, near the Euphrates River.

Divine Encounter:
Despite Balak's request, God intervened, instructing Balaam not to curse the Israelites, for they were blessed. Balaam's journey to Moab is marked by a divine encounter with the Angel of the LORD, who stands in opposition to him. This encounter underscores God's sovereignty and the futility of opposing His will.

The Prophecies:
Balaam's prophecies are delivered in four oracles, each progressively affirming God's favor upon Israel and His plans for their future.

1. First Oracle (Numbers 23:7-10): Balaam declares that he cannot curse whom God has not cursed. He acknowledges Israel's distinctiveness and their vast numbers, expressing a desire to share in their fate: "Let me die the death of the righteous, and may my end be like theirs!" (Numbers 23:10).

2. Second Oracle (Numbers 23:18-24): Balaam emphasizes God's unchanging nature and His commitment to bless Israel. He proclaims, "God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind" (Numbers 23:19). The oracle highlights Israel's strength and divine protection.

3. Third Oracle (Numbers 24:3-9): Under the influence of the Spirit of God, Balaam speaks of Israel's future prosperity and dominance. He likens Israel to a lion and a lioness, blessed by those who bless them and cursed by those who curse them.

4. Fourth Oracle (Numbers 24:15-24): This prophecy is particularly messianic, foretelling the rise of a star out of Jacob and a scepter out of Israel, symbolizing a future king who will conquer Israel's enemies. Balaam predicts the downfall of Moab and other nations, indicating the ultimate triumph of God's people.

Theological Significance:
Balaam's prophecies underscore several key theological themes. They affirm God's irrevocable blessing upon Israel, His chosen people, and highlight His sovereignty over all nations. The oracles also foreshadow the coming of a messianic figure, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative and finds fulfillment in the New Testament.

Balaam's Legacy:
Despite his role in delivering these profound prophecies, Balaam's legacy is marred by his later actions. He is later associated with leading Israel into sin through the counsel he gave to Balak, resulting in God's judgment upon Israel (Numbers 31:16; Revelation 2:14). This duality in Balaam's character serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of compromising with evil, even for those who have experienced divine revelation.