Definition: And Balak’s anger was kindled against Balaam, and he smote his hands together: and Balak said unto Balaam, I called thee to curse mine enemies, and, behold, thou hast altogether blessed [them] these three times.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Numbers 24:10. It’s a pretty dramatic moment in the story of Balaam! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Story: Balaam was speaking to a group of people and they were harassing a man named Balaam. Balaam, feeling angry, angrily struck his hands together repeatedly – like he was trying to physically stop the harassment. Then, Balaam asks something surprising: He says, “I called you to curse my enemies, and you have blessed them three times!” What’s happening? This is a really significant point. It suggests that Balaam actually felt sympathy for these people. He wasn't just angry; he was feeling a sense of justice or perhaps even compassion towards the harassers. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as showing that Balaam was moved by the people’s actions. It implies he wasn't simply following orders – he felt something, and that feeling led him to act in a way that was morally better than just cursing them. In short: Balaam’s anger turned into a moment of unexpected empathy, which resulted in him blessing the people who were harassing him. It’s a bit mysterious, but it highlights a potential shift in his understanding and actions. Essentially, it's a story about a man showing compassion even when he’s angry. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this particular passage within the larger narrative of the book of Numbers?