Why Was Hashem Angry at Bilam/2
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
This topic has not yet undergone editorial review
Why Was Hashem Angry at Bilam?
Exegetical Approaches
Evil Intent
Hashem was angry at Bilam since he was acting in bad faith. Though Bilam knew that Hashem's intentions were that the Children of Israel be blessed, Bilam was nonetheless hoping to curse them.
Sources:Rashi,
Lack of Transparency
Bilam was not upfront with Balak's messengers, leading them to believe that he was coming to curse as they requested, when he, in fact, was not given permission to so do. This would cause a descration ofHashem's name, as He would appear fickle.
Sources:Ramban
No Wrongdoing
Bilam had not yet committed any problematic deed. Hashem was simply issuing a warning to emphasize that he do as told.
Changing Circumstances
Hashem's varying responses relate to the changing deeds of Israel and whether or not they merited protection from Bilam's curses.
