במדבר, פרק כ״ג, פסוק י״ד

Following the failure of the initial attempt to curse the Israelites, the campaign shifts to a new location and a different strategy. This movement is not merely geographic; it is a calculated spiritual maneuver designed to target a historical, mystical, or astrological vulnerability within the nation.

The first destination is an elevated, mountainous observation post typically used by guards to spot approaching armies [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. However, the choice of this specific site carries deeper significance. Some identify it as Mount Hor, the site of Aaron's death, where Canaanites once watched the protective clouds of glory depart before launching an attack [שפתי כהן]. Alternatively, having found no flaw in the ancestors of the Israelites, Balaam chooses a vantage point to scrutinize the current generation, hoping to uncover the lingering stain of the sin of the Golden Calf [כלי יקר]. Taking a completely different approach, others suggest that after his initial sorcery failed, Balak pivots to astrology, bringing Balaam to an observatory used by stargazers [מלבי״ם].

From there, they continue to a specific mountain peak. The selection of this exact summit is driven by Balak's own mystical abilities. In fact, Balak is a greater sorcerer than Balaam, and through his dark arts, he foresees a future tragedy for the Israelites at this very location, specifically the eventual death of Moses. Balak mistakenly interprets this vision as a sign that a curse will successfully take root there [רש״י, שפתי כהן]. Although Balak surpasses Balaam in the dark arts of impurity, he still requires Balaam's presence because Balaam's unique power lies in his speech and his ability to articulate a curse [משכיל לדוד, ברכת אשר על התורה].

At this peak, seven altars are constructed to channel a curse through the astrological system, corresponding to the seven planets [מלבי״ם]. There are differing perspectives on who initiates this construction. While some maintain that the altars are built following Balaam's instructions [ביאור שטיינזלץ], others argue that it is entirely Balak's initiative. According to this view, Balaam has already reached a prophetic level where he no longer needs to offer sacrifices to draw down the Holy Spirit, leaving Balak to act alone [העמק דבר].

Ultimately, a bull and a ram are offered on the altar. The act of sacrifice is carried out solely by Balak. Balaam does not participate in the offering because, at that moment, he becomes blind in one eye. This physical blemish disqualifies him from performing sacrifices on an altar [צפנת פענח].