1. Balaam said to Balak, “Build seven altars here, then bring seven bulls and seven rams.”
2. After Balak had done this, they sacrificed a bull and a ram on each altar.
3. Then Balaam said, “Wait here beside your offerings, and I'll go somewhere to be alone. Perhaps the Lord will appear to me. If he does, I will tell you everything he says.” And he left.
4. When God appeared to him, Balaam said, “I have built seven altars and have sacrificed a bull and a ram on each one.”
5. The Lord gave Balaam a message, then sent him back to tell Balak.
6. When Balaam returned, he found Balak and his officials standing beside the offerings.
7. Balaam said:“King Balak of Moab brought mefrom the hills of Syriato curse Israeland announce its doom.
8. But I can't go against God!He did not curseor condemn Israel.
9. “From the mountain peaks,I look down and see Israel,the obedient people of God.
10. They are living alone in peace.And though they are many,they don't botherthe other nations.“I hope to obey Godfor as long as I liveand to die in such peace.”
11. Balak said, “What are you doing? I asked you to come and place a curse on my enemies. But you have blessed them instead!”