### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Balaám**, represented by `{{G903}}`, is of Hebrew origin and refers to Balaam, a Mesopotamian who is symbolic of a false teacher. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. His name is used to represent a corrupting influence that leads people into sin for personal gain.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G903}}` is presented as a negative archetype. He is cited as the originator of the "doctrine of Balaam," which taught **Balac** `{{G904}}` how to **cast** `{{G906}}` a **stumblingblock** `{{G4625}}` before the children of Israel [[Revelation 2:14]]. This teaching specifically aimed to lead them to **eat** `{{G5315}}` things sacrificed to idols and **to commit fornication** `{{G4203}}`. Those who follow "the way of Balaam" are described as having "forsaken the right way" because he "loved the wages of unrighteousness" [[2 Peter 2:15]]. This path is also referred to as the "error of Balaam," which false teachers run greedily after for **reward** `{{G3408}}` [[Jude 1:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of Balaam's corrupting influence:
* `{{G904}}` **Balák** (Balak, a Moabite): The individual taught by Balaam to tempt the Israelites into sin [[Revelation 2:14]].
* `{{G4106}}` **plánē** (a straying from orthodoxy or piety): This word defines the "error" of Balaam, representing a delusion or straying from truth that is pursued for financial gain [[Jude 1:11]].
* `{{G3408}}` **misthós** (pay for service (literally or figuratively), good or bad): This highlights Balaam's central motivation, as he "loved the wages of unrighteousness" [[2 Peter 2:15]] and serves as a warning about those who seek a **reward** for false teaching.
* `{{G4625}}` **skándalon** (a trap-stick, i.e. snare): This describes the outcome of Balaam's doctrine, which was to place a "stumblingblock" before God's people to cause them to sin [[Revelation 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G903}}` functions as a warning against teachers who corrupt for profit.
* **Teaching for Profit:** The "way of Balaam" is defined by greed. He is the archetype for those who love the "wages of unrighteousness" [[2 Peter 2:15]] and pursue **error** `{{G4106}}` for a **reward** `{{G3408}}` [[Jude 1:11]].
* **A Source of Stumbling:** Balaam's teaching is condemned for its effect on others. He is remembered for instructing **Balac** `{{G904}}` on how to cause Israel to fall into idolatry and **fornication** `{{G4203}}`, making him a source of a **stumblingblock** `{{G4625}}` [[Revelation 2:14]].
* **An Archetype of Apostasy:** To follow the "way of Balaam" is to abandon the correct path. It signifies going astray from faith and righteousness in pursuit of worldly gain [[2 Peter 2:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G903}}` serves as a potent biblical symbol for a false teacher motivated by greed. The name **Balaám** encapsulates the act of knowingly leading others into sin through doctrines that compromise faith. The scriptures use his example to warn against the dangers of forsaking righteousness for the allure of a worldly "reward," making him a timeless figure of corrupting influence.
TRV