Balak's Lavish Bribe to Balaam in Midrash Tanchuma

Midrash Tanchuma Buber, Balak 9:3

Curated by Arthur·Translated by Maggid (Beta)·

(Numbers 22:16-17:) "And they came unto Balaam and said unto him: Thus has Balak ben Zippor said, etc., 'for I will surely honor you greatly.'" More than what you [sought] formerly I am giving, and everything that you desire, and whatever you decree I will do.

Themes

Adam EveHatredWisdomKingsConversion

Biblical References

Continue Reading

Ben SiraWalking in Meekness Before the Most HighBen Sira turns to Walking in Meekness Before the Most High. First, Ben Sira advises, "My son, in thy wealth walk in meekness; and thou shalt be more beloved thaBen SiraThe Danger of Believing You Are in ControlThat moment where you think, "I've got this. I'm in control"? We all do. It's part of being human. But what happens when that feeling tips over into arrogance, Ben SiraThe Wrathful Sinner Who Poisons Every HouseChapter 11 is a stark warning about the company we keep, the words we speak, and the consequences of succumbing to negativity. "What’s gained by violent sinnersLetter of AristeasEleazar's UnderstandingThe Letter of Aristeas gives us a glimpse into just that kind of bittersweet moment. It paints a picture of devotion, duty, and the complicated emotions that arLetter of AristeasEleazar Selects the Wisest Translators for PtolemyIt recounts the story of how the Septuagint – the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible – came to be. And tucked within that grand narrative, we find a little gLetter of AristeasThe Highest Good in Life According to Ancient SagesThey were also pondering the big questions, just like us. The Letter of Aristeas gives us a peek into just such a scene. Imagine a king, powerful and wealthy, s