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Why did Bilam ask God's permission to curse the Jews when he claimed to have independent power? The Midrash reveals that even the Midianite elders understood this showed weakness. A person truly connected to God considers divine feelings even when acting correctly, while emotional disconnection enables ruthless "objectivity."
This shiur analyzes Parshas Balak through a Midrash that explores the psychological and spiritual dynamics behind Bilam's consultation with God. The Midrash describes how the elders of Midian brought "ksamim" (divination tools) and concluded that Bilam had no real power ("ein bo tocheles") when he said he needed to consult God overnight. Rabbi Zweig examines two possible interpretations of Bilam's request. Either Bilam was asking for permission (suggesting he lacked independent power), or he was seeking God's approval for strategic reasons - not wanting to antagonize his divine "employer" by taking on a delegation beneath his status. The shiur suggests that even the Midianite elders, who hated the Jews more intensely than Moav (since they had no self-interest in the conflict), understood that needing divine approval indicated weakness.
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Parshas Balak
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