burned. Perhaps the experience of the donkey is akin to the experience of the prophet. As the donkey does not control events, neither does Balaam. Only God determines blessing and cursing. Patterns of three are frequent in this narrative, and with this third encounter with the angel, this amusing tale with the donkey comes to a climax. Balaam and the donkey have a conversation. The donkey says, What have I done to deserve these three beatings? Balaam answers, You have made a fool of me! If I had