The Donkey & The Prophet: Part 1

Summary

The Chosen People – "The Donkey & The Prophet: Part 1"

Podcast Host: Pray.com
Episode Date: February 26, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of The Chosen People, titled "The Donkey & The Prophet: Part 1," brings to life the Old Testament account of the prophet Balaam and his interactions with King Balak of Moab. Through dramatized storytelling, immersive narration, and explored character motivations, listeners journey deep into this biblical confrontation—where spiritual power, ambition, and divine sovereignty collide. The episode tackles themes of faith, temptation, loyalty, pride, and the mystery of God’s will, all set in the tension-filled period as Israel nears entry to the Promised Land.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Political and Spiritual Crisis in Moab

• Balak’s Fear and Frustration:
  • King Balak of Moab is introduced at a moment of anxiety ([05:31]). He’s shaken by the Israelites’ victories over neighboring Amorite cities and worried his own kingdom could be next.
  • The political tension with his Midianite allies is unveiled:

    “They have an army... This horde would devour everything around us like a swarm of locusts.” (Balak, [07:33])

  • Balak’s frustration with what he sees as Midianite apathy, and his maneuvering to unite allies under the threat of Israel, sets the stage for seeking supernatural intervention.

2. Character Study: Balaam the Prophet

• Balaam’s Reputation and Temptations:
  • Balaam is vividly depicted as a renowned but mercenary diviner, gifted in “the mysterious arts,” with a taste for luxury ([11:10]).
  • His motivations are laid bare:

    “Money and influence became his true gods, and he swore he would never go without them again.” (Narrator, [14:57])

  • The episode skillfully contrasts Balaam's expertise in spiritual matters with his underlying greed and pride.

3. The Divine Encounter

• First Divine Prohibition:
  • Balaam is approached by Moabite and Midianite envoys; he initially refuses their offer after consulting Israel’s God:

    “You are not to go with them. You are not to curse these people, for they are blessed.” (God’s voice, [17:32])

  • Balaam reluctantly obeys, turning down Balak’s reward.
• Persistence Pays—But at a Price:
  • When richer, higher-ranked emissaries arrive, Balaam is torn between his obedience and inordinate desire ([18:36]–[22:18]).
  • He makes it clear:

    “Even if King Balak were to give me his full house full of silver and gold, I would not go against the command of the God of Israel.” (Balaam, [22:18])

  • Nonetheless, Balaam asks God a second time, receiving a surprising answer:

    "Since these men have come to summon you and you have been so...persistent, get up. Get up and go with them. But you must only do what I tell you." (God’s voice, [23:09] and [23:28])

  • Balaam interprets this as victory for his ambitions, but tension rises about his true allegiance.

4. The Donkey’s Intercession—The Iconic Scene

• Physical and Spiritual Blindness:
  • On the journey, Balaam's donkey refuses to move, sensing an angel in their path ([24:50]–[26:21]). Balaam beats her in frustration.
  • Miraculously, the donkey speaks:

    “What have I done to you that you have beaten me these three times?” (Donkey, [26:21]) “You made me look like a fool. Why, if I had a sword in my hand instead of this stick, I'd kill you now.” (Balaam, [26:37]) “Am I not the donkey you've ridden all your life until today? Have I ever treated you this way before?” (Donkey, [26:43])

  • Balaam is finally confronted by the angel, who rebukes him:

    “Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? She saw me and turned away. I came out to oppose you because I consider what you are doing to be evil. If your donkey had not turned away...I would have killed you by now and let her live.” (Angel, [27:17])

• Lesson in Humility and Submission:
  • Balaam, shamed and afraid, begs to turn back:

    “I have sinned, for I did not know that you were standing in the path to confront me. And now, if it is evil in your sight, I will come back.” (Balaam, [28:14])

  • The angel’s warning:

    “No. Go with the men. But remember, you are to say only what I tell you.” (Angel, [28:30])

5. Clash of Wills: Balaam and King Balak

• Arrival and Confrontation:
  • After the arduous journey, Balaam faces Balak, whose impatience is barely veiled:

    “Did I not send you an urgent summons?... Why didn't you come to me sooner? Do you think I am not able to pay you?” (Balak, [29:17])

  • Balaam asserts:

    “I am here now, but...I must speak only the message this God puts in my mouth.” (Balaam, [29:44])

• Sacrifice Preparations and Mountaintop Drama:
  • Balak gathers his counselors and allies at Bamoth-Baal, a high place of pagan worship ([31:54]).
  • Balaam requests seven altars, each with a bull and a ram ([31:46]).
  • Intriguing moment:

    “Stay here by your burnt offering. While I'm gone, you may chant and pray...when I return, I can tell you what this God of Israel reveals to me.” (Balaam, [32:12])

  • Heavy, foreboding atmosphere with clouds, rain, and anticipation as Balaam retires to await the divine message.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Balak’s Hyperbole and Desperation:

  “Our king will give you the moon and stars if that's what it takes. All you have to do is come to Moab and put a...curse on the people of Israel.” (Moabite envoy, [21:58])

• Balaam’s Double-Edged Devotion:

  “Even if King Balak were to give me his full house full of silver and gold, I would not go against the command of the God of Israel.” (Balaam, [22:18])

• The Donkey’s Voice—First Words:

  “What have I done to you that you have beaten me these three times?” (Donkey, [26:21])

• Divine Irony and Rebuke:

  “She saw me and turned away...If your donkey had not turned away from me, I would have killed you by now and let her live.” (Angel, [27:17])

• Spiritual Limitations:

  “You may think I can say anything I want, but I cannot. I must speak only the message this God puts in my mouth.” (Balaam, [29:44])

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Timestamps for Major Segments

• Balak’s Conclave and Strategic Crisis: [05:31]–[09:56]
• Balaam Introduced and Explored: [11:10]–[14:57]
• First Divine Consultation/Refusal: [17:32]–[17:42]
• The Second Delegation and Divine Permission: [18:36]–[23:28]
• The Journey; The Donkey’s Rebellion and Miracle: [24:50]–[28:30]
• Balaam Arrives; Confrontation with Balak: [29:17]–[29:59]
• High Place Sacrifices and Awaiting the Oracle: [31:46]–[32:25]

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Tone & Storytelling Style

• The narration leans into a dramatic retelling, emphasizing the psychological depth and spiritual suspense of the biblical tale. Characters speak in a blend of ancient-world formality and accessible dialogue, with a tone that is both reverent and engaging. Background soundscapes and music underscore the tension and mystery of each scene.

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Takeaways & Insights for Listeners

• The episode underscores the tension between worldly ambitions and obedience to divine will.
• Balaam embodies a conflicted spiritual expert: outwardly devoted, but easily swayed by greed and ego—his journey is as much internal as external.
• The miraculous intervention of the donkey drives home the message that true spiritual perception is a gift from God, not a product of human manipulation or power.
• God’s sovereignty is highlighted: even the most skilled prophet cannot speak beyond God’s command, and efforts to control the divine for personal gain are ultimately futile.

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Final Notes

This episode sets up a cliffhanger—Balaam, Balak, and their anxious court await the prophet’s pronouncement. The richly dramatized narrative provides a multi-layered exploration of power, faith, and the unpredictability of God’s intervention, leaving listeners eager for the next installment of Balaam’s story.

Transcript

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[Narrator/Storyteller]

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[Narrator/Storyteller]

on the Chosen People. The Edomites already told us in no uncertain terms they would meet us in battle. Or do they mean to finish what

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

they started 38 years ago?

[Narrator/Storyteller]

I propose we change that.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Joshua, draw up your plans and make the changes you need to our defenses. But first, let us pray and ask the Lord to be with us.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Joshua and Caleb took a detachment of men and horses from the tribe of Judah.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

The Lord has already gone before us and struck the first blow. We will press the advantage he has laid before us tomorrow and strike the second.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Joshua triumphantly climbed back up the rubble of the toppled gate and thrust his sword over his head, declaring victory. They had done it. They had battered the gate and stormed the city walls of Aedrei.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

The Lord told me he would hand this city over to and then he told me that I would stand on the battlements in the wake of our victory.

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[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

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[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

I think what people recognized is that the 10 year old son of the shooter is also a victim. The widow is also a victim. So it is 9,500 people and a lot of them are giving $5, $10, $20.

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[Narrator/Storyteller]

Balak, son of Zippor and king of Moab, drummed his fingers impatiently on the stone battlements of his royal city. Ah, the crown jewel of the east. Or so he believed. Below him, the kings of Nedian were finally dismounting from their camels in the courtyard. They were late. Balak's messengers had reached their caravans days ago, yet the kings had taken their time responding. Frustration simmering, Balak turned sharply and hurried down the narrow stone steps to his audience chamber attendants Scrambling to keep up, he dropped onto his throne with a thud and barked an order at one of them.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

What are you waiting for? They've arrived, haven't they? Fetch them. Bring them to me.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Balak bit back a laugh as the young attendants scurried from the hall, his eyes wide with fear. It did nothing to assuage Balak's frustrations, but frightening his servants alleviated the feeling briefly. A few moments later, the Medianite kings filed in, still in their travelling clothes, dust from the road clinging to them and dirtying his hall. Balak frowned at it as one of them stepped forward. King Balak, we have received your urgent

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

summons, but we did not realize that

[Narrator/Storyteller]

you were in quite such a hurry. You do not appear to be under attack.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

I saw no army laying siege as we approached. What, pray tell, is so pressing that you would pull us off our camels and drag us into your hall? Xur, isn't it? King Zur, I know you nomads care little for the politics of the cities, but in case your spies have failed to notice, a rival nomadic nation has just stormed through our lands and trounced two fortified cities. And have they set their sights on

[Narrator/Storyteller]

your precious city of Aar?

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

They have in army, an army of hundreds of thousands strong and a population of over 2 million people. This horde would devour everything around us like a swarm of locusts.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Sur's eyes narrowed at Balak's overt condescension. He looked back and conferred with his companions before turning back to address Balak. Well, our spies informed us that you met with the Israelites before they passed through Moab. Apparently, gifts were exchanged, familiar ties of kingship were evoked.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

It sounded very touching.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Their mission to enter Canaan is widely known.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Are you surprised they destroyed our Amorite

[Narrator/Storyteller]

neighbors who stood in their way? I will not shed tears over their demise.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

It seems they did you a favor.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Didn't your kingdom Once hold Heshbon and Bashan.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Perhaps they will gift these old Moabite

[Narrator/Storyteller]

strongholds to you, since you are long lost kingsmen. Reunited at last. Balak had met with the Israelite emissaries weeks ago, that was true, and they promised to peacefully pass through the land which they had, but then viciously toppled two Amorite kings. Balak feared they would be tempted to try their strength against Moab. His kingdom was due south of where the Israelites were now, camped in the acacia grove at the city of Shittim, and only a day's ride or so away. Far too close for comfort. Balak masked his fear at this new threat in his irritation with Midian's apparent apathy to the danger the Israelites, being on the plains of Moab, presented. But he needed the support of the Medianites if he planned to succeed. His attempts to persuade the Ammonites in the northeast had been brushed aside, leaving him no choice but to turn to these nomadic Medianites. Though they roamed beyond Moab, they often settled within his borders for parts of the year. Balak knew that with the right persuasion, he could convince them that this new nation of Israel was a genuine threat. And if Israel's power rose unchecked, well, Balak had no intention of letting that come to pass. I heard stories of a man, a

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

high priest of one of your tribes, who's developed a bit of a soft spot for these Hebrews.

[Advertiser/Promoter (e.g., Matt Rogers, Bowen Yang, or commercial voice)]

Hmm.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

I believe he allowed their leader to marry his daughter. Jethro. Ah, yes, that was it. He even sent his tribe out to join them before he died. I believe they're fully assimilated within Israel now, sparing no thought for their Midianite heritage? What a shame. But let me ask you this. How long until more of your Midianites defect to follow Jethro's son in law? How long until they throw out your gods and your ways and force you to bend and scrape to their new God? See, we have a common interest here, my friends. Something must be done. The Israelites cannot succeed in this land. And if we cannot defeat them in battle, let us turn to the gods ourselves.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

What do you have in mind? Balaam reclined on silken pillows, lazily popping another fig into his mouth as he tuned out what was the 9th or 10th bid? How could he be expected to keep count for his services that day? He let his gaze drift past the messenger to the courtyard beyond, where columns adorned with intricate reliefs surrounded a bubbling tiled fountain. A passing serving girl offered a shy smile, which he returned biting into another fig Silence stretched as the messenger finished speaking and awaited Balaam's response. Balaam vaguely remembered the man mentioning a sum during his lengthy pitch. Too low. With a wave, he dismissed him and signalled for the next. Balaam had taken over this audience chamber, hosted by a prince of Pethor. Influential patrons across the region clamored to host him. From Haran in the north to Ur in the south, along the Euphrates, people from Aram and even distant Shinar sought him out for his famed divination skills. Balaam was a renowned sorcerer, prophet, and conjurer of the mysterious arts. Many of his talents were mere tricks of the trade he'd learned from his master. Yet other aspects of his job required a true connection to the spiritual forces. This is where he truly made his weight in silver. Everyone always flattered him when requesting his services. Hearing his praises was a song he never tired of listening to. He didn't need people to tell him he was the most famous prophet in the world. But he certainly wasn't going to stop them. A messenger approached him and bowed. The man's clothes were strange. He was not from Aram. Perhaps further south along the great sea. More of a desert region. This man must have traveled far indeed to find him. Balaam was intrigued.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Tell me, who has sent you and where are you from? I have been sent by the king of Moab. King Balak. I travel with his esteemed elders and the elders of the Midianite kings as well. There are enemies on their borders who wield the power of a strong God. They've risen to power quickly. My king and his allies desire for this nation to be cursed.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Moab. That was nearly 500 miles away. Balaam smirked. His fame was even further reaching than he had known. And this king of Moab must be desperate to send summons this far away. Or very rich. Or both. But Balaam supposed the bottom line would be the same.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Either way, let's do this. Spend the night here and I will practice my arts and discern the will of the God protecting these enemies. Yours, you say? They have risen to power quickly. Surely that means there has been divine intervention. That will make casting the curse more difficult. But not impossible. Do not fear. Their God may stand by them today. But I know this to be true. These supernatural beings do only what pleases them. Perhaps it pleases him to stand by them today. Tomorrow he may not. I will go and seek out this God that favors Israel and see what he has to say. Gather the elders you represent and come to me tomorrow. I will relay his intentions the messenger

[Narrator/Storyteller]

inclined his head and departed. Balaam had clawed his way out of poverty by tuning his ear to the voices that whispered truths of present and future events. As an abandoned, hungry street urchin, he had discovered that these voices wanted to speak to him, to be heard and shared. He became their mouthpiece, turning his strange gift into a profitable livelihood. He then mastered the art of sorcery, and it paid exceedingly well. Money and influence became his true gods, and he swore he would never go without them again. The voices gave him this life, and in return, he offered his willing ear and commanding voice. Their bargain was simple. He would listen and convey their messages, and they would continue whispering secrets in his ear. Balaam considered what he knew of the God of Israel, El Elyon, God Most High, or El Shaddai, God Almighty. This was said to have roots in this very land. Legend told of an appearance to a wealthy merchant's son in Haran centuries ago, sparking a movement and the birth of a nation. Stories of Israel had reached Balaam, the miraculous escape from Egypt, where their God shamed Pharaoh and freed an entire nation. After a quiet period, stories reemerged miracles in the desert, whispers of conquest and destiny. But if this God was even half as powerful as the tale suggested, cursing Israel would be unwise. Balaam was a diviner of spirits and a communer with the gods. He relayed messages and sought answers, but preferred to stay out of their designs. But as always, he would seek to discern the will of the gods, even this God of Israel. That evening, Balaam ascended to the palace roof where he kept his tools of divination. Incense, oils, marked stones and bones for casting lots, liver models, amulets, divining rods and sacred texts. He lit the incense, voiced King Balak's request, lowered himself to his knees, closed eyes his his eyes, and waited for the God's answer. Balaam felt a shift in the air. The presence was different from any of the Elohim he had encountered before. Balaam felt powerless in his presence, small, a rare feeling when practicing divination.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

You are not to go with them. You are not to curse these people, for they are are blessed.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Balaam was not surprised by the answer. This God had consistently protected Israel. Still, he felt a pang of disappointment at having to turn down King Balak's lucrative offer. Balaam resolved to honor the divine message. He would not risk his hard won fortune or position to defy a God known for fierce loyalty to his people. The Moabite elders were disheartened by Balaam's refusal the next morning. But the God of Israel had spoken, and that was final. Balaam sent them on their long journey back to Moab, believing the matter was settled. To his astonishment, nearly two months later, Balaam was met with another delegation from Moab and Midian, this time larger and composed of their highest ranks ranking officials who had come to plead with him once more.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Please, Balam, our king has authorized great sums for your reward. Let nothing keep you from coming with us.

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[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Right?

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[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

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[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Our king will give you the moon and stars if that's what it takes. All you have to do is come to Moab and put a coffee curse on the people of Israel.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Balaam paused and pondered the request. How deep were these Moabites pockets? And how large a threat did these Israelites pose to warrant such desperation?

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Look, it's not that I don't want to help you, but even if King Balak were to give me his full house full of silver and gold, I would not go against the command of the God of Israel. When he spoke to me, he was very clear.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

He could see the frustration in their eyes. Balaam was frustrated too. He was at war with his own desires. He wanted to see how this story would unfold. These men were so persistent and very wealthy. Perhaps he could verify with this God of Israel and ensure that he understood his intentions beyond a shadow of a doubt.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Why don't you all stay here overnight as the other did before? I will consult the God of Israel again and I will see what else he has to say.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Balaam did not have to wait long before the God of Israel had his answer.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Since these men have come to summon you and you have been so similarly persistent, get up. Get up and go with them.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Balaam was shocked that the God had relented. He was A prisoner about to spring up from his seat on the ground when the voice spoke again.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

But you must only do what I tell you.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

That he could do. Balaam's rapturous smile slowly spread from ear to ear. This was the best of both worlds. He could collect the Moabite's reward and satiate his curiosity. He doused the candles and the incense and hurried off to pack his bags, already calculating how many empty ones to bring for all the riches he would surely earn in Moab. Balaam's backside hurt from riding, and he longed for a bath and a decent meal. He and his companions had been on the road for weeks. Conversations amongst them had grown shorter and shorter and eventually dried up completely. There was only so much one could say about oneself around strangers. And so Balaam was nursing his foul mood and ignoring the numbing motion of the donkey beneath him when she suddenly veered off the path. The path narrowed between two stone walls that marked a boundary between vineyards. As they moved between them, the donkey veered again, pressing against one wall and crushing Baynam's foot. He yelled in surprise and pain as she leaned harder into the stones. Behind him, his servants exchanged glances, stifling laughter. Up ahead, the Moabite and Medianite elders turned to see the commotion and snickered at the prophet's loss of control. Balaam flushed with embarrassment, his foot throbbing, he raised his hand and struck the donkey with all his might. She brayed in protest, but shifted away from from the wall, and the men ahead resumed their walk, assuming the scene was over. But as Balaam urged her forward with his heels, the donkey froze, refusing to move. The narrow passage left her unable to turn, and Balaam's servants were close behind, preventing her from backing up. She brayed more urgently, fighting Balaam's commands. The emissaries turned again, now openly laughing. The frantic donkey, unable to go anywhere else, began to sink to the ground. Balaam's frustration boiled over and he yelled, flailing at the animal. What is wrong with you?

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Why won't you move?

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Utterly humiliated, as she sank beneath him, he pulled out a stick from the folds of her saddle blanket and beat her with it. But she still did not budge. She only cowered at the assault. Balaam then leaped from her back and whirled to face her. The donkey craned her neck up at him and continued braying. Balaam screamed in frustration back at her and thrust the stick high over his head, ready to bring it down again when her brain suddenly shifted into discernible words in her mouth. What have I done to you that

[Advertiser/Promoter (e.g., Matt Rogers, Bowen Yang, or commercial voice)]

you have beaten me these three times.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Accustomed to the unexplainable and ethereal, Balaam did not balk at the words, nor did he turn to see if his companions understood. He did the most natural thing he could think of. He answered her.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

You made me look like a fool. Why, if I had a sword in my hand instead of this stick, I'd kill you now.

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Am I not the donkey you've ridden all your life until today? Have I ever treated you this way before? No.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

A prickling sensation on the back of Balaam's neck prompted him to turn and look behind him. He dropped the stick he was holding. An angel wielding a mighty sword stood directly behind him. This was what was blocking the donkey's path between the stones. Balaam dropped to his knees and bowed before the being. It spoke in the voice of the God of Israel.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? She saw me and turned away. I came out to oppose you because I consider what you are doing to be evil. If your donkey had not turned away from me, I would have killed you by now and let her live.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Balaam's stomach twisted with fear and guilt at that. He had not seen the angel before him. The voices he had learned to listen to his entire life had not warned him. How could he call himself a diviner when he had not even discerned this spiritual being before him? Now and the God of Israel came to oppose him. Hadn't he given him the authority to leave? But he could see from the fierceness in the angel's eyes and the way that he angled his sword that he would need to appease this angry God.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

I have sinned, for I did not know that you were standing in the path to confront me. And now, if it is evil in your sight, I will come back. No. Go with the men. But remember, you are to say only

[Narrator/Storyteller]

what I tell you. The angel before Balaam then fell faded away, and the way before him was clear. Late, this renowned Balaam was late. As the company gathered before him, Balak noted the space that the other men kept between themselves and the prophet. It was understandable. Balaam's reputation for sorcery was enough to make anyone uneasy. The man appeared worn from the long, arduous journey between their lands, and there was something odd and eccentric about him. Perhaps it would have been wiser to let the prophet rest before pressing him. But Balak had waited long enough, and patience was not among his virtues.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Did I not send you an urgent summons? You deny me the first time I Summon you, then accept, and then delay your time on the road. Why didn't you come to me sooner? Do you think I am not able to pay you?

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Balaam gave him a tight smile, surely thinking of the riches he would have when this was all said and done, if he could do what Balak asked.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

I am here now, but I will tell you one thing before I begin. You may think I can say anything I want, but I cannot. I must speak only the message this God puts in my mouth.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Balak seethed at Balaam's vague response. What kind of mystical nonsense was this? Celebrity or not? Balaam was being paid for a service, and Balak expected results. In a final act of defiance, he demanded Balaam list everything necessary for the curse before dismissing him to rest after his long 500 mile journey from Pethor. The following morning, Balak assembled his elders, the five kings of Median and their counselors, and brought Balaam to Barmouth baal, the heights of baal, a high place atop the Pisgah Range dedicated to their God baal. The site had all the tools needed for sorcery and several permanent altars. The day was clear offroad, offering a sweeping view of the Israelite camp nestled in the valley below. It was the perfect vantage point for a curse, as seeing the object of the curse was essential. Balak had already prepared the sacrifices, cattle, sheep and goats offered to BAAL in anticipation of Balaam's arrival. Now they gathered at the high place, waiting for the prophet to begin. Balaam stood, stood silently, eyes fixed on the expanse below, appearing to listen to voices only he could hear. Balak shuddered at the thought of whatever unseen cruel whispers reached Balaam's ears. The Moabites and Medianites watched with bated breath. Suddenly Balaam snapped to attention, and as the wind picked up and howled over the peaks, shouted words carried by the swirling air. Thick dark clouds rolled in as he began to speak.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Build me seven altars and prepare seven bowls and seven rams, Balak ordered his

[Narrator/Storyteller]

men as Balaam directed, and they offered a bull and a ram on each altar as burnt offerings, slitting all the animals throats and burning the entire carcass in the fire. When it was done, Balak stood back from the smoking altars and waited for what would come next.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

Stay here by your burnt offering. While I'm gone, you may chant and pray. If it would please your God, baal, when I return, I can tell you what this God of Israel reveals to me.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

And with that, he retreated alone to a barren hill. Balak and his men waited by the offer offerings. He ordered them to begin chanting just as Balaam suggested. The scent of the charred remains stung their nostrils, and their bodies ached at the physical labor the sacrifices required. A steady rain started to fall, and with each great gust of the wind it was blown sideways and whipped their faces. But still they waited for the prophet to return. Balaam emerged through the smoke and rain like a vision. The man looked enlightened, somehow taller, more authoritative. The men beside him shifted on their feet. Even Balak, who never backed down from a fight, shrank back from him slightly as he approached. Balaam's eyes then locked on Balak's. Balak swallowed audibly, held his ground, and didn't break his stare. Then the prophet opened his mouth to speak. This pray.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Cattina, Max Bard, Zach Schellewager and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoch, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosalie and Chris Baig. You can hear more Pray.com productions on the Pray.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the Chosen People, please rate and leave a review.

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Breaking news everybody. Not everything is terrible. I repeat, not everything is terrible. The Ripple Effect with Jenna Kim Jones is proof that the Internet it hasn't ruined humanity entirely. Author and member of the church Dave Butler looked at what had happened and realized that there were other victims in this tragedy and did something completely unexpected. He set up a fundraiser for the family of the shooter who had left behind a wife and a child.

[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

I think what people recognized is that the 10 year old son of the shooter is also a victim. The widow is also a victim. So it is 9,500 people and a lot of them are giving four $5, $10, $20.

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It's like magic you guys. So put down your doom scroller and pick up your faith in humanity and join me, Jenna for the Ripple Effect. It's a reminder that you can start a ripple that changes everything. You really can. Listen to the Ripple Effect with Jenna Kim Jones on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your PO.

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[Character Voices (e.g., Balaam, Balak, other biblical figures)]

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[Narrator/Storyteller]

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[Narrator/Storyteller]

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