Bible Dictionary
Balak
Balak was king of Moab when Israel approached his territory. Fearing Israel, he hired Balaam to curse them, but God turned the intended curse into blessing.
Definition
Balak, son of Zippor, was king of the Moabites when Israel was encamped near Moab. Fearing the Israelites, he hired Balaam to curse them.
Biblical Usage
Balak’s purpose was frustrated because Balaam was compelled to bless Israel instead of cursing it. His actions are recalled in later biblical references to Balaam and Israel’s wilderness experience.
Historical Background
Balak’s episode belongs to the period when Israel approached the eastern side of the Jordan, near the end of the wilderness journey.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Empty; spoiler, a son of Zippor, and king of the Moabites (Num. 22:2, 4). From fear of the Israelites, who were encamped near the confines of his territory, he applied to Balaam (q.v.) to curse them; but in vain (Josh. 24:9).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(spoiler), son of Zippor, king of the Moabites, who hired Balaam to curse the Israelites; but his designs were frustrated int he manner recorded in (Numbers 22:24) (B.C. 1451.)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>ba'-ak balaq, ("devastator" or "one who lays waste"): Mentioned in connection with the story of Balaam/Balak (Nu 22-24; compare Jos 24:9; Jud 11:25; Mic 6:5; Re 2:14). He was the king of Moab who hired Balaam to pronounce a curse on the Israelites.</p><p>See BALAAM.</p>