Biblical Context:
The narrative of Balak sending for Balaam is found in the Book of Numbers, chapters 22 to 24. This account takes place during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings, as they approach the Promised Land. The Israelites camped in the plains of Moab, on the east side of the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. Their presence and recent victories over neighboring nations caused fear among the Moabites and their king, Balak.

Balak, King of Moab:
Balak, the son of Zippor, was the king of Moab during this period. Observing the Israelites' formidable numbers and their triumph over the Amorites, Balak was filled with dread. He perceived the Israelites as a significant threat to his kingdom and sought a means to weaken or defeat them.

Balaam, Son of Beor:
Balaam was a non-Israelite prophet or diviner residing in Pethor, near the Euphrates River. Known for his ability to pronounce blessings and curses, Balaam's reputation extended across the region. Balak believed that Balaam's curse could turn the tide against the Israelites.

The Summons:
Balak sent messengers to Balaam with rewards, requesting him to come and curse the Israelites. Numbers 22:6 records Balak's plea: "Please come now and put a curse on these people, because they are too powerful 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."

God's Intervention:
Upon receiving Balak's request, Balaam sought God's guidance. God instructed Balaam not to go with the Moabite messengers and not to curse the Israelites, for they were blessed (Numbers 22:12). Balaam relayed this message to Balak's envoys, refusing to accompany them.

Balak's Persistence:
Undeterred, Balak sent more distinguished officials with promises of greater rewards. Balaam, again consulting God, was permitted to go with them, but only under the condition that he would speak only what God commanded (Numbers 22:20).

The Journey and the Angel:
As Balaam set out with the Moabite officials, God's anger was kindled because Balaam went with them. An angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. Balaam's donkey saw the angel and turned aside, but Balaam, unaware of the angel's presence, struck the donkey. This happened three times until the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel. The angel reiterated that Balaam should only speak what God instructed (Numbers 22:31-35).

Balaam's Oracles:
Upon arrival, Balak took Balaam to various high places to view the Israelites, hoping for a curse. However, each time Balaam attempted to curse them, God put words of blessing in his mouth instead. Balaam's oracles affirmed God's blessing on Israel and foretold their future victories. Numbers 23:8 states, "How can I curse what God has not cursed? How can I denounce what the LORD has not denounced?"

Significance:
The account of Balak and Balaam underscores the sovereignty of God over nations and individuals. Despite human intentions and schemes, God's purposes prevail. Balaam's account also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the importance of obedience to God's will. The narrative highlights the divine protection over Israel and the futility of opposing God's chosen people.