In the Bible, a donkey quietly and consistently supports and carries the prophetic Seer Balaam. Yet, Balaam, infamous for his evil-eye, mercilessly insults and repeatedly beats his beast of burden, all the while taking for granted its benevolence.

The prophet’s devoted ass sees danger – and reality – clearly, while the rider, in stark contrast, does not. It is puzzling how such a wise man could be so blind and heartless. Nevertheless, that is exactly the case.

With immense satisfaction, we witness the rider’s come-uppance in the biblical story when the unimaginable occurs: the donkey speaks!

The donkey expresses what many might say in such circumstances:

“What the hell?! I have served you faithfully,........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)