Biblical Context:
The account of Balak dismissing Balaam is found in the Book of Numbers, chapters 22 to 24. This narrative occurs during the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, as they encamp in the plains of Moab, across the Jordan River from Jericho. Balak, the king of Moab, becomes alarmed by the presence and the previous victories of the Israelites and seeks to curse them through the prophet Balaam.

Balak's Request:
Balak, son of Zippor, sends messengers to Balaam, son of Beor, who resides in Pethor near the Euphrates River. Balak's intent is to hire Balaam to curse the Israelites, hoping to weaken them and prevent them from conquering Moab. Numbers 22:6 records Balak's plea: "Please come now and curse this people for me, because they are too mighty for me. Perhaps then I will be able to defeat them and drive them out of the land. For I know that those you bless are blessed, and those you curse are cursed."

Balaam's Response:
Initially, God instructs Balaam not to go with Balak's messengers and not to curse the Israelites, for they are blessed (Numbers 22:12). Despite this, Balak persists, sending more distinguished officials with promises of great reward. Balaam, enticed by the offer, seeks God's permission again. This time, God allows Balaam to go but commands him to speak only what He tells him (Numbers 22:20).

Balaam's Oracles:
Upon his arrival, Balaam instructs Balak to build seven altars and offer sacrifices. However, instead of cursing Israel, Balaam delivers a series of oracles that bless the Israelites. Each attempt by Balak to secure a curse results in further blessings. Balaam's first oracle declares the distinctiveness and strength of Israel (Numbers 23:8-10). The second oracle emphasizes God's unchangeable blessing and protection over Israel (Numbers 23:19-24). The third oracle extols Israel's future prosperity and dominance (Numbers 24:5-9).

Balak's Frustration and Dismissal:
Balak becomes increasingly frustrated with Balaam's failure to curse Israel. In Numbers 24:10-11 , Balak's anger is evident: "Then Balak’s anger burned against Balaam, and he struck his hands together and said to Balaam, 'I summoned you to curse my enemies, but behold, you have persisted in blessing them these three times. Now go home! I said I would richly reward you, but the LORD has denied you any reward.'"

Balaam's Final Prophecy:
Before departing, Balaam delivers a final prophecy, foretelling the rise of a star out of Jacob and a scepter out of Israel, which many interpret as a messianic prophecy (Numbers 24:17). This prophecy further underscores the futility of Balak's attempts to thwart God's plans for His people.

Theological Significance:
The narrative of Balak dismissing Balaam highlights several key theological themes. It underscores God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant promises. Despite human attempts to manipulate or oppose God's will, His purposes prevail. The account also illustrates the futility of opposing God's chosen people and serves as a testament to the power of divine blessing over human cursing. Balaam's oracles, particularly the final prophecy, point to the future hope and ultimate victory of God's kingdom through the coming Messiah.