Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, is a complex figure in the biblical narrative, primarily found in the Book of Numbers. His account is intertwined with the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land and the attempts of Balak, the king of Moab, to curse them. Balaam's repentance is a subject of theological discussion, as it reflects the tension between divine sovereignty and human free will.

Background

Balaam, son of Beor, is introduced in Numbers 22. Known for his ability to bless and curse, Balaam is summoned by Balak to curse the Israelites, who are encamped on the plains of Moab. Despite Balak's promises of great reward, Balaam insists on seeking God's guidance before proceeding. God initially forbids Balaam from going with Balak's messengers, stating, "You are not to curse these people, for they are blessed" (Numbers 22:12).

The Journey and the Angel

Eventually, God permits Balaam to go with the men, but only to speak what He commands. On his journey, Balaam's donkey sees the Angel of the LORD standing in the way and turns aside. Balaam, unaware of the angel's presence, strikes the donkey three times. The LORD opens the donkey's mouth, and it questions Balaam's actions. Then, the LORD opens Balaam's eyes, and he sees the Angel of the LORD with a drawn sword. Balaam bows and confesses, "I have sinned, for I did not know that You were standing in the road to oppose me. Now if this is displeasing in Your sight, I will go back" (Numbers 22:34).

Prophetic Oracles

Despite Balak's insistence, Balaam delivers four oracles, each blessing Israel instead of cursing them. In these oracles, Balaam speaks profound truths about Israel's destiny and God's unchangeable purpose. He declares, "God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?" (Numbers 23:19). Balaam's words affirm God's faithfulness and the irrevocable nature of His blessings upon Israel.

Balaam's Later Actions

While Balaam's initial response to the Angel of the LORD suggests repentance, his later actions cast doubt on the sincerity of his change of heart. Numbers 31:16 reveals that Balaam advised the Moabites to entice the Israelites into sin, leading to a plague among the people. This counsel indicates a return to self-serving motives, contradicting his earlier acknowledgment of God's authority.

New Testament References

The New Testament further comments on Balaam's character. In 2 Peter 2:15, Balaam is cited as an example of those who love the wages of wickedness. Jude 1:11 warns against following Balaam's error for profit, and Revelation 2:14 criticizes those who hold to Balaam's teaching, which led Israel into idolatry and immorality.

Theological Implications

Balaam's account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of compromising divine truth for personal gain. His initial repentance, marked by acknowledgment of sin and submission to God's will, is overshadowed by subsequent actions that reveal a divided heart. Balaam's narrative underscores the importance of genuine repentance and steadfast obedience to God's commands.