For the source text click/tap here: Sanhedrin 106
To download, click/tap here: PDF
The verse says that the Jews killed the kings of Midyan and killed Bilam by sword.
Rabbi Yochanan explains that Bilam had gone to Midyan to collect his reward for his advice, which killed 24,000 Jews. Mar Zutra bar Tuvia quotes Rav saying that this illustrates the common saying that “the camel went to get horns but ended up with his existing ears cut off.” Similarly, Bilam went to collect money, and ended up losing his life.
The verse says that the Jews killed Bilam the magician. Rabbi Yochanan explains that Bilam was originally a prophet, but ended up being just a magician, since he violated Hashem’s command.
We continue our exploration into the ballad stories and their reception.