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Why did Hashem (ה׳) become angry at Bilam when He had given permission to go? The fact that Bilam personally saddled his donkey revealed irrational, self-demeaning behavior that could only stem from hatred, not financial motivation. This transformed the permitted action into forbidden hatred-driven conduct.
This shiur analyzes the apparent contradiction in Parshas Balak where Hashem (ה׳) gives Bilam permission to go with Balak's messengers, yet immediately becomes angry when Bilam departs. Rabbi Zweig begins by citing the Vilna Gaon's explanation that distinguishes between 'et' (going to the same destination for different purposes) and 'im' (working together), suggesting Bilam joined their hatred rather than merely pursuing financial gain. However, Rabbi Zweig challenges this approach, arguing it would represent a major chiddush that non-Jews are held accountable for improper intentions when performing permitted actions. He contends that the seven Noachide laws focus on actions rather than motivations, unlike the fuller Torah (תורה) obligations that Jews bear for both deed and intent.
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Parshas Balak
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