1. And the Bnei Yisroel set forward, and encamped in the plains of Moav on the bank of the Yarden by Yericho.
2. And Balak ben Tzippor saw all that Yisroel had done to the Emori.
3. And Moav was exceedingly afraid of the people, because they were many; and Moav was filled with dread because of the Bnei Yisroel.
4. And Moav said unto the Ziknei Midyan, Now shall this kahal lick up all that are round about us, as the ox licketh up the grass of the sadeh. And Balak ben Tzippor was Melech of Moav at that time.
5. He sent malachim (messengers) therefore unto Balaam ben Beor to Petor, which is by the River [Euphrates] in his native land, to summon him, saying, Hinei, there is a people come out from Mitzrayim; hinei, they cover the face of ha'aretz, and they are settling next to me;
6. Come now, therefore, please, curse for me this people; for they are too mighty for me; perhaps I shall prevail, that we may strike them, and that I may drive them out of ha'aretz; for I know that he whom thou blessest is m'vorach (blessed), and he whom thou cursest is cursed.
7. And the Ziknei Moav and the Ziknei Midyan departed with the divination remuneration in their hand; and they came unto Balaam, and spoke unto him the words of Balak.
8. And he said unto them, Lodge here this night, and I will bring you word again, as Hashem shall speak unto me; and the sarim of Moav abode with Balaam.
9. And Elohim came unto Balaam, and said, What men are these with thee?
10. And Balaam said unto HaElohim, Balak ben Tzippor, Melech Moav, hath sent unto me, saying,