The answer
Balaam was not an Israelite but probably of Syrian descent. He was a prophet that had received messages from God and even about the Messiah (Numbers 24:17). However, he was evil and greedy for his own gain (Jude 1:11). He was also devious and enticed Israel to sin by worshipping idols and committing sexual immorality with the Midianite women (Numbers 25).Answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab)