Numbers 22:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

A certain Balak, leader of the most populous tribe known as the Midianites, was filled with dread following the downfall of those who had fallen before him. Fearful of facing the Israelites himself, he chose to employ not weapons or physical might, but rather futile enchantments through a man named Balaam, believed to be adept in such practices. His followers were convinced that Balaam possessed some authority in these mystical arts.