Numbers 31:16 - Bil'am's deadly deception?

Context of the Verse

This verse (Bamidbar 31:16) recounts the incident where Bilaam advised the Midianites to lead Bnei Yisrael astray through immorality and idolatry with the daughters of Moav at Peor. The plague that followed was a direct consequence of this sin, resulting in the deaths of 24,000 Jews (as recorded in Bamidbar 25:9). The verse emphasizes the severity of the transgression and its tragic outcome.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (on Bamidbar 31:16) explains that Bilaam, unable to curse Bnei Yisrael directly, advised Balak to entice them into sin. He understood that Hashem's protection over Israel was contingent on their moral and spiritual fidelity. By causing them to sin, he effectively removed that protection, leading to the plague. Rashi notes that this strategy was rooted in Bilaam's knowledge of Hashem's ways—that sin would provoke divine wrath.

The Role of Peor

The sin of Peor (Avodah Zarah linked with immoral acts) was particularly grievous. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 106a) states that Bilaam advised the Midianites to set up tents with women selling wares, luring Jewish men into sin. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 20:23) elaborates that this was a deliberate trap to undermine Bnei Yisrael's covenant with Hashem.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 1:2) discusses the severity of idolatry, noting that Peor was among the most debased forms, involving public indecency. The plague was a measure-for-measure response to the moral collapse brought on by Bilaam's counsel.

Lessons from the Incident

• Spiritual Vulnerability: Bilaam exploited Bnei Yisrael's weaknesses, teaching that external threats often target internal moral failings.
• Consequences of Sin: The plague demonstrates the dire repercussions of abandoning mitzvot, especially in matters of kedushah (holiness).
• Leadership Responsibility: Moshe and Pinchas's subsequent actions highlight the need for decisive leadership to rectify communal sin.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash Tanchuma (Balak 18) states that Bilaam's advice was rooted in his hatred for Israel, despite his inability to curse them. This underscores the danger of external enemies who seek to harm Klal Yisrael spiritually when physical harm is impossible.