Numbers 22:7

22:7 So the elders of Moab and the elders of Midian departed with the fee for divination in their hand. They came to Balaam and reported 1  to him the words of Balak.

Numbers 22:17

22:17 For I will honor you greatly, 2  and whatever you tell me I will do. So come, put a curse on this nation for me.’”

Numbers 22:37

22:37 Balak said to Balaam, “Did I not send again and again 3  to you to summon you? Why did you not come to me? Am I not able to honor you?” 4 

1 tn Heb “spoke.”

2 tn The construction uses the Piel infinitive כַּבֵּד (kabbed) to intensify the verb, which is the Piel imperfect/cohortative אֲכַבֶּדְךָ (’akhabbedkha). The great honor could have been wealth, prestige, or position.

3 tn The emphatic construction is made of the infinitive absolute and the perfect tense from the verb שָׁלַח (shalakh, “to send”). The idea must be more intense than something like, “Did I not certainly send.” Balak is showing frustration with Balaam for refusing him.

4 sn Balak again refers to his ability to “honor” the seer. This certainly meant payment for his service, usually gold ornaments, rings and jewelry, as well as some animals.