Peor is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, particularly in the narrative involving Balak, the king of Moab, and the prophet Balaam. This site is associated with the worship of Baal and is situated in the region of Moab, east of the Jordan River. The events at Peor are pivotal in the account of Israel's journey to the Promised Land and highlight the spiritual and moral challenges faced by the Israelites.

Biblical Context

The account of Peor is primarily found in the Book of Numbers. As the Israelites encamped in the plains of Moab, Balak, the Moabite king, became fearful of their presence due to their recent victories over neighboring nations. In an attempt to weaken the Israelites, Balak sought the services of Balaam, a prophet known for his ability to pronounce blessings and curses.

Balak's Altars on Peor

Balak took Balaam to several high places to observe the Israelites and to perform sacrifices, hoping to secure a curse against them. One of these locations was Peor. Numbers 23:28-30 describes this event: "And Balak took Balaam to the top of Peor, which overlooks the wasteland. Balaam said, 'Build for me here seven altars, and prepare for me here seven bulls and seven rams.' Balak did as Balaam had said, and offered a bull and a ram on each altar."

The altars built on Peor were part of Balak's strategy to manipulate spiritual forces against Israel. However, despite the sacrifices and the strategic location, Balaam was unable to curse the Israelites. Instead, he delivered blessings, as God intervened and put words of blessing in Balaam's mouth.

The Sin of Peor

Peor is also infamous for the subsequent sin of the Israelites, which involved idolatry and immorality. Numbers 25:1-3 recounts, "While Israel was staying in Shittim, the men began to indulge in sexual immorality with the Moabite women, who invited them to the sacrifices for their gods. And the people ate and bowed down to these gods. So Israel joined in worshiping Baal of Peor, and the LORD’s anger burned against them."

This incident led to a severe plague among the Israelites, as God's judgment fell upon those who had turned to idolatry. The sin of Peor serves as a stark warning against the dangers of compromising faith and engaging in pagan practices.

Theological Significance

Peor represents a place of spiritual testing and failure for the Israelites. It underscores the persistent threat of idolatry and the seductive nature of foreign influences. The narrative highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to protect His people, even when human intentions are contrary to His will. Despite Balak's efforts and Balaam's initial willingness to curse Israel, God's purposes prevailed, demonstrating His faithfulness to His covenant people.

The events at Peor also serve as a reminder of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God. The Israelites' lapse into idolatry had dire consequences, emphasizing the need for vigilance and adherence to God's commandments. Peor thus stands as a testament to the challenges of maintaining spiritual integrity in the face of external pressures and temptations.Numbers 23:28-30
And Balak brought Balaam to the top of Peor, that looks toward Jeshimon.
Nave's Topical Index

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Who were the Midianites? | GotQuestions.org

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