cursing (אָרַר) on those who would curse (קִלֵּל) Abraham’s posterity. Because of the unconditional nature of the covenant, its promises and provisions remain in force throughout Israel’s existence as a nation. Balaam is an example of one who received judgment for cursing Israel (Num. 22–24; 31:16). Actually Balaam was unable to curse Israel, and he fell under God’s judgment because of his attack on Israel by undermining the spiritual life of the nation (31:8). All the Midianites except for the little
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