Numbers 23:1 - The Popular Commentary by Paul E. Kretzmann

And Balaam said unto Balak, Build me here seven altars, and prepare me here seven oxen and seven rams, namely, one animal of either group for each altar. Balaam here presumed upon a show of authority which he did not possess, and he dedicated his sacrifices to Jehovah, although they were offered on a place consecrated to the loathsome idol of the heathen. His idea apparently was to gain the favor of the Lord by the rich offering and cause Him to permit the cursing of Israel. Balak here shows great cunning in leading Balaam where he could see only a small part of the people, lest the sight of the entire host would intimidate the soothsayer and keep him from uttering his curses.