Balak
Balak in the Bible — Midianite prophet who worked against Israel, son of Zippor (NUM 22:2). Balak belonged to the tribe of Midianite. Referenced in 3 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “who lays waste or destroys”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Midianite
- Scripture References
- 3 references
- Known Names
- 2 names
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Balak was a male Midianite prophet known for opposing the nation of Israel. He is identified specifically as the son of Zippor. His role as a Midianite prophet who worked against Israel highlights his significance in the biblical narrative as an adversary to God's people.
Names & Titles
The name Balak means 'devastator,' which reflects his role as a king and adversary in the biblical account. Additionally, he is referred to by the title 'King of Moab,' indicating his royal position and authority over Moab. Both names are noted in Numbers 22:2 and 22:4 and are not given by God.
Family
Balak is recorded as the son of Zippor, establishing his immediate family lineage. Scripture does not provide further family relationships beyond this explicit connection.
Significance
Balak's significance lies in his opposition to Israel during their journey, as he sought to hinder God's plan by using his prophetic influence. As a Midianite prophet and king, he represents the resistance faced by God's people and serves as a foil to God's sovereign purposes. His actions are documented in Numbers 22:2, emphasizing the challenges Israel encountered in the wilderness.
Names & Labels (2)
- Hebrew
- בָּלָ֖ק
- Transliteration
- balaq
- Meaning
- devastator
- Greek
- Βαλακ
- Reference
- NUM 22:2
- Strong's
- H1111
- Hebrew
- מֶ֥לֶךְ לְמוֹאָ֖ב
- Transliteration
- melek ləmoav
- Meaning
- king [of] Moab
- Greek
- βασιλεὺς Μωαβ
- Reference
- NUM 22:4
- Strong's
- H4428, H4124
Family & Relationships (1)
son
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Balak in the Bible?
Balak was a male Midianite prophet known for opposing the nation of Israel. He is identified specifically as the son of Zippor. His role as a Midianite prophet who worked against Israel highlights his significance in the biblical narrative as an adversary to God's people.
What does the name Balak mean?
The name Balak means “who lays waste or destroys” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.