Who was Bosor?

Bosor is a variant form of the name Beor, mentioned in 2 Peter 2:15 (KJV) as the father of the prophet-for-hire Balaam. In the King James Version, the verse reads: “Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness.” Most scholars agree that “Bosor” is a textual variation or intentional play on the name “Beor,” which is Balaam’s father in the Old Testament (cf. Numbers 22:5; 24:3, 15).

In Greek, the name appears as Βοσὼρ (Bosōr). The Hebrew form, Beor (בְּעוֹר), possibly means “burning” or “torch.” The change to “Bosor” in 2 Peter may reflect either a scribal variation or a deliberate wordplay by Peter to associate Balaam with disgrace. In Aramaic, “Bosor” can sound similar to a word meaning “flesh,” which would further emphasize Peter’s rebuke of Balaam’s carnal and greedy nature.

Biblical References

• 2 Peter 2:15 – Balaam is called the “son of Bosor” and is condemned for loving the wages of unrighteousness.

• Numbers 22-24 – Balaam, son of Beor, is hired by Balak to curse Israel but is constrained by God to bless them instead.

• Deuteronomy 23:4-5 – Balaam is forbidden from helping Israel and is later judged for his role in Israel’s sin.

• Revelation 2:14 – Balaam is again mentioned for teaching Balak to put a stumbling block before Israel.

• Jude 11 – Balaam is referenced in connection with false teachers motivated by greed.

What Happened in the Bible?

Balaam, son of Bosor (Beor), was a diviner or prophet from Mesopotamia. Though not an Israelite, he had some knowledge of the true God. In Numbers 22–24, he is summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. God initially forbids Balaam from going, but when Balaam persists, God permits him to go with a stern warning to only speak what He commands.

Despite multiple attempts to curse Israel, Balaam ends up pronouncing blessings over them. However, his story takes a dark turn. Though he could not curse Israel directly, Balaam advised Balak to lead Israel into sin by enticing them with Moabite women and idolatry (Numbers 25; 31:16). This led to divine judgment on Israel and ultimately Balaam’s death (Numbers 31:8).

In 2 Peter 2:15, Peter references Balaam‘s story, using the name Bosor, to warn against false teachers who, like Balaam, are driven by greed and rebellion. Bosor, therefore, is a symbolic and historical reference tied to a man whose legacy is one of compromise, corruption, and judgment.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

The mention of Bosor in 2 Peter 2:15 serves as a stern warning. Balaam’s desire for personal gain, even when it meant manipulating spiritual truth, mirrors the motivations of false teachers in Peter’s time—and in ours. Christians today must be vigilant against teaching that prioritizes money, fame, or influence over faithfulness to God’s Word.

Just as Balaam outwardly appeared to be obedient—insisting he would only say what God told him—his heart was covetous and self-serving. Many modern spiritual leaders may cloak themselves in religious language while ultimately promoting unrighteousness.

Christians are called to discern the spirit behind the message. The “way of Balaam” is the path of compromise: using religion for selfish gain, corrupting the truth for profit, and leading others astray.

How Bosor Points to Jesus and the Gospel

While Bosor (Beor) is known through his son Balaam, the stark contrast between Balaam and Christ is striking. Balaam, though claiming to be a mouthpiece of God, was ultimately a false prophet who led people into sin. Jesus, by contrast, is the true Prophet (Deuteronomy 18:15; John 6:14), the very Word of God made flesh (John 1:14), who leads His people into righteousness.

Where Balaam loved the wages of unrighteousness, Jesus offered Himself for our righteousness. Where Balaam‘s counsel brought death, Jesus’ counsel brings life. Peter’s reference to Bosor not only reminds us of false teaching but indirectly exalts the faithfulness, purity, and redemptive mission of Christ.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. False Prophets and Greed

The theme of greed motivating false prophecy appears throughout Scripture. From Balaam to the Pharisees, from Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8) to the wolves in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15), the Bible consistently warns of those who exploit spiritual influence for personal gain.

2. God’s Sovereignty Over Evil

Despite Balaam’s sinful intent, God overruled him, turning curses into blessings. This reflects a broader theme: God‘s sovereign ability to turn evil for good (Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28).

3. Judgment on Compromise

Balaam represents the danger of spiritual compromise. Though he had some knowledge of God, his heart was not fully surrendered. Scripture does not honor partial obedience—it calls for whole-hearted devotion (Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 22:37).

4. The Purity of God’s People

Balaam’s scheme caused Israel to fall into sexual immorality and idolatry. The New Testament consistently calls the church to holiness, warning against mingling with the world in ways that defile (2 Corinthians 6:17; Ephesians 5:3-7).

Reflection Questions

1. In what ways might modern Christians be tempted by the “wages of unrighteousness” as Balaam was?

2. How can we guard our hearts from spiritual compromise and false motives?

3. What can we learn from God’s control over Balaam’s message about His sovereignty today?

4. Are there teachings or influences in your life that, though seemingly biblical, might be leading you away from wholehearted obedience to Christ?

5. How does the example of Balaam challenge us to examine the sincerity of our faith and ministry?

Bosor, as a name, appears only once in Scripture but holds profound implications. It ties us to the legacy of Balaam—a man who spoke for God but ultimately betrayed Him. This name serves as a warning: that not all who speak God’s Word live by it, and not all who claim the name of God serve His purposes. Only in Jesus—the faithful Prophet, Priest, and King—do we see the true and holy pattern to follow.