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Was Balaam a prophet of God who strayed because of greed, or a false prophet? Was he a Gentile?

Balaam was not an Israelite but probably of Syrian descent. He was a prophet that had received messages from God and even about the Messiah (Numbers 24:17). However, he was evil and greedy for his own gain (Jude 1:11). He was also devious and enticed Israel to sin by worshipping idols and committing sexual immorality with the Midianite women (Numbers 25).