Balak: Eyes Wide Open
in solidarity with the #WeekOfGoodness
In Parashat Balak, we find a prophet named Balaam, who is hired by King Balak to curse the Israelites. Balak realizes he cannot defeat the Israelites militarily, acknowledging their strength lies not just in physical might but in their spiritual resilience. He aims to weaken them by targeting their spirits, their hearts, and their connection to God.
At first, Balaam, who indeed has access to God, speaks to God the night Balak’s messengers invite him to curse the Israelites. God tells Balaam, “No, you may not go. (Num. 22:12)” Balaam relays this to the messengers, who return to Balak. Persistent, they come back with more wealth and flattery, convincing Balaam to ask God again. This time, God permits Balaam to go but commands that he only speak the words God places in his mouth (Num. 22:20), underscoring the prophet’s duty to use his divine connection for good.
As Balaam sets out, an angel with an outstretched sword appears, though Balaam cannot see it initially. His donkey, however, does see the angel and reacts, causing Balaam to strike the donkey multiple times — an act of unnecessary cruelty. Eventually, the donkey speaks, opening Balaam’s eyes to the angel’s presence. Confronted by the angel, Balaam confesses, “I erred because I did not know you were standing in the way. If you still disapprove, I will turn back now.” The angel reiterates God’s command: Balaam must only speak the words given by God. (Num. 21–35)
This interaction reveals a critical point: Balaam’s sin was not just his actions but his lack of awareness. Ignorance is not a valid excuse, especially for a prophet. Just as a child cannot strike a parent and claim ignorance of its prohibition, a prophet must be aware of divine signals. Balaam’s failure to see the angel was itself the sin (Iturei Torah).
This lesson is particularly poignant in our world, saturated with information and distractions. We cannot afford to ignore the pressing issues around us. The Torah in this narrative teaches us the importance of being vigilant and responsive.
We live in a time where social media bombards us with constant updates, making it easy to become desensitized or overwhelmed in an already complicated world. Yet, we are called to keep our eyes open, to stay informed, and to act. Ignorance is not an excuse; inaction in the face of need is a failure.
Balaam’s story warns against the dangers of turning a blind eye. Initially, God said not to go. The second time, God allowed Balaam to go but only to speak divine words. Balaam should have understood that he was not to go at all. His eventual realization — only after the donkey’s intervention — highlights his earlier failure to perceive what was evident.
We must strive never to be in a position where we fail to see what is right in front of us. The Hebrew term “חָטָאתִי” (khata’ti), often translated as “I sinned,” also means “I missed the mark.” Missing the mark of our obligations to our families, our communities, and humanity is a grave error. We are called to be vigilant, to recognize and respond to the needs around us with love, sensitivity, and fierce commitment.
Our task is demanding, but it is our sacred duty. We must keep our eyes open, not just to the challenges but also to the beauty and blessings around us. Today, as we mark day 286 since October 7th, let us draw inspiration from the dedication of a new Torah in Jerusalem, an act of solidarity and hope.
Seeing something obligates us to act. Balaam failed to curse the Israelites because God turned the intended curse into a blessing. Our role is to prevent harm before it manifests, to protect the vulnerable, and to uphold our responsibility as guardians of our sisters and brothers.
If you feel overwhelmed by the world’s demands, take a moment to rest, then rise to respond with renewed vigor. Seeing is not enough; we must act. May we be blessed with the courage to keep our eyes open, to see both the challenges and the blessings, and to respond with love and strength. Let’s be vigilant and proactive, ensuring that our actions bring the world closer to the way it should be.
The donkey saw the angel first — let us not lag behind.
#BringThemHomeNow Bring Them Home Now Bring Hersh Home Bring Carmel Back