“Balaam also the son of Beor, the soothsayer, did the children of Israel slay with the sword among them that were slain by them.”
Historical context: Joshua 13 is part of the account of the division of the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel after they had conquered the Promised Land. The previous chapters describe the victories and territories allotted to various tribes.
Balaam’s background: Balaam is mentioned here as the son of Beor and a soothsayer. Earlier in the book of Numbers (chapters 22-24), Balaam was hired by the Moabite king, Balak, to curse the Israelites. However, God prevented Balaam from cursing them and instead spoke blessings over Israel. Balaam’s story is significant because it reveals God’s protection over the nation of Israel.
Balaam’s involvement: Despite being unable to curse Israel, Balaam advised Balak on how to lead the Israelites into sin and idolatry. He suggested that the Moabite women entice the Israelite men to participate in sexual immorality and worship the Moabite gods. This led to a plague among the Israelites, and in Numbers 25:9, we learn that 24,000 people died. It seems that Balaam, though not physically present, played a role in this tragic event.
The execution of judgment: In Joshua 13:22, we read that the Israelites slew Balaam with the sword among those who were slain. This indicates that Balaam suffered the consequences of his actions. While the text doesn’t provide specific details about when or how this happened, it is evident that God held Balaam accountable for his involvement in leading the Israelites astray.
