CLV(i)
3 and Moab shrank in view of the people exceedingly, for they were numerous. Since Moab was irritated in view of the sons of Israel,
4 Moab said to the elders of Midian:Now this assembly shall lick up all around us like a bull licks up the green grass of the field. So Balak son of Zippor who was king of Moab at that time
5 sent messengers to Balaam son of Beor at Pethor (which is on the Stream in the land of the sons of his people) to call for him, saying:Behold, a people has come forth from Egypt. Behold, they cover the eye of the land, and they are dwelling at my forefront.
6 Now come, I pray, curse this people for me, for they are more substantial than I. Perhaps I shall prevail, so that we may smite them and I may drive them out from the land, for I know that whomever you bless is being blessed and whomever you curse is accursed.
7 The elders of Moab and the elders of Midian went with the pay for divinations in their hands. They came to Balaam and spoke to him the words of Balak.
8 He said to them:Lodge here for the night, and I will bring back word to you just as Yahweh shall speak to me. So the chiefs of Moab dwelt with Balaam.
9 Now Elohim came to Balaam and said:Who are these men with you?
10 And Balaam said to the One, Elohim:Balak son of Zippor, king of Moab, sent them to me, saying.
11 Behold, the people coming forth from Egypt are covering the eye of the land! Now go, revile him for me. Perhaps I shall be able to fight him, and I will drive him out.