Quiz on Parashat Balak

What deeper understanding did Balak have according to Sifsei Chachamim?

• He saw the future of Moab.

• He realized the loss of Sihon and Og meant his kingdom was vulnerable.

• He predicted the downfall of Israel.

• He understood the power of Moses' staff.

Why did Moab and Midian team up according to Rashi?

• They had a common enemy in Egypt.

• They were afraid of the Jews.

• They wanted to expand their territories.

• They wanted to trade resources.

What was the significance of Balak being king 'at the time'?

• He was the rightful heir to the throne.

• He was a prince of Midian appointed after Sihon's death.

• He was a temporary king.

• He was elected by the people of Moab.

Why did Bilam ask the messengers to stay the night?

• He needed time to prepare a curse.

• He only received prophecy at night.

• He wanted to consult with his advisors.

• He was waiting for a sign from the stars.

What was Bilam's hope in going with Balak's messengers?

• To form an alliance with Moab.

• To learn more about the Israelites.

• To convince Hashem to allow him to curse the Israelites.

• To gain wealth and power.

What did Bilam unintentionally reveal about himself?

• He was afraid of Balak.

• He was under Hashem's control.

• He had no real power.

• He was a double agent.

Why did Hashem give prophecy to Bilam, an evil non-Jew?

• To demonstrate the power of prayer.

• To test Bilam's loyalty.

• To prevent non-Jews from claiming they would repent if they had prophets.

• To show that prophecy is universal.

What was the purpose of the magical items brought by the elders of Midian?

• To protect themselves from curses.

• To enhance Bilam's power.

• To test Bilam's willingness to negotiate.

• To bribe Bilam.

What did Bilam mean by 'also you guys'?

• He was speaking to his own servants.

• He was addressing the elders of Midian.

• He was including the Israelites in his plans.

• He was referring to the messengers' disappointment.

What was Bilam's power according to R' Bachaye?

• He could speak to animals.

• He could control the weather.

• He knew when Hashem was angry.

• He could see the future.