Author(s): Ferdinánd TARR

Title: BÁLÁM: KÁNONON INNENI ÉS TÚLI ÉRTEKEZÉS AZ "IDEGEN" PRÓFÉTÁRÓL (AZ ÁLDÁS ÉS AZ ÁTOK HELYE A HÉBER KÁNONBAN ÉS AZON TÚL)

Source: V. Kókai-Nagy (ed.): 17th International Scientific Conference of J. Selye University. Sessions of the Reformed Theological Faculty. Conference Proceedings

ISBN: 978-80-8122-537-6

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36007/5376.2026.65

Publisher: J. Selye University, Komárno, Slovakia

PY, pages: 2025, 65-76

Published on-line: 2026

Language: hu

Abstract: The original meaning of this preliminary research was to define the criteria of true and false prophecy, starting from the story of Balaam "the prophet turned upside down" (Numbers 22-24). However, guided by the literature and my personal interest, I realized that my a priori intention was too universal and needed to be clarified and narrowed. It is difficult to determine how prophecy works, how the word of man becomes the word of God: this is an impossible possibility. I again considered the theme of curse and blessing to be universal enough to point out the specific questions raised by the text, its place in the Torah and the entire Hebrew Canon and even beyond, in the New Testament and in Josephus Flavius. Balaam appears in a positive light in the original narrative. A “pagan” seer and/or diviner who probably had nothing to do with Israel: he blesses even when hired to curse. Positive or negative reception of him dominates in the Hebrew Bible? Or the ambivalence of his figure and his „ministry” is dominating?

Keywords: Balaam, blessing, cursing, Numbers 22-24, canon-canonization, prophetism, true and false prophet.

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