### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Balák**, represented by `{{G904}}`, is of Hebrew origin and refers to **Balak, a Moabite**. It appears **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its sole appearance places it within a warning against false teaching that leads God's people into sin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G904}}` is mentioned exclusively within a rebuke to the church in Pergamos. The text states a grievance against them for holding to "the doctrine of Balaam, who taught **Balac** to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel" [[Revelation 2:14]]. This one reference frames Balak as the figure who implemented Balaam's corrupting counsel, which specifically involved enticing the people of Israel to **eat things sacrificed unto idols** and to **commit fornication**.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{G904}}` is clarified by several interconnected Greek words:
* `{{G903}}` **Balaám** (Balaam, a Mesopotamian): He is the source of the false teaching, presented as the one who "taught Balac" [[Revelation 2:14]]. His error is symbolic of a false teacher motivated by reward [[Jude 1:11]].
* `{{G1322}}` **didachḗ** (instruction): This word defines the "doctrine of Balaam" that Balak received and acted upon. Scripture warns believers to avoid being carried about by strange doctrines [[Hebrews 13:9]].
* `{{G4625}}` **skándalon** (a trap-stick... snare): This is precisely what Balak was taught to place before Israel, a "stumblingblock" or an "occasion to fall" intended to lead them into sin [[Revelation 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The single reference to `{{G904}}` carries significant theological weight, illustrating key spiritual dangers:
* **Facilitating False Doctrine:** Balak's role is defined by his reception of the "doctrine of Balaam" `{{G1322}}`, a teaching that led God's people astray. He serves as a historical example of a leader enabling corrupting instruction [[Revelation 2:14]].
* **The Nature of Stumbling Blocks:** Balak was taught to "cast a stumblingblock" `{{G4625}}` before Israel. This act represents a deliberate effort to cause others to sin, a theme warned against throughout scripture as an offense that brings woe [[Matthew 18:7]].
* **Linking Idolatry and Immorality:** The specific sins incited were eating **things sacrificed unto idols** `{{G1494}}` and committing **fornication** `{{G4203}}`. This connects the act of idolatry with physical immorality, portraying unfaithfulness to God in both spiritual and practical terms [[Revelation 2:14]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G904}}` **Balák** appears only once, its context is profoundly instructive. The name is preserved not for his own initiative, but as the recipient of the corrupting instruction of Balaam. He exemplifies a figure who enables false teaching to take root, resulting in idolatry and fornication among God's people. The mention of **Balak** serves as a permanent biblical warning against those who would create a **stumblingblock** for the faithful.
TRV