The answer is: Euphrates

Numbers 22:5

Balaam, that mysterious figure who's both a seer and a prophet, lived by the Euphrates River—an area rich in history and ancient cultures. This mighty river, one of the great rivers of Mesopotamia, was pivotal for early civilizations. It provided water for irrigation and helped settlements thrive, such as Babylon, known for its fascinating achievements and even the legendary Hanging Gardens!

When we think of Balaam, it's captivating to note how he is portrayed in scripture as a prophet who speaks for God, but his story unfolds against the backdrop of a larger narrative involving the Israelites. King Balak of Moab sought Balaam's help to curse the Israelites, believing that it would weaken them in their journey. However, God thwarted Balak's plans by speaking to Balaam, and instead, he ended up blessing the Israelites. Here we see an amazing twist where a prophet who supposedly goes against the grain finds himself working in line with divine purpose.

An interesting trivia nugget: Balaam's unusual discourse with his donkey—who eventually speaks to him—could be seen as a playful yet profound reminder about listening to insights that come unexpectedly. This adds to the drawn narrative where God’s voice can be found in even the most extraordinary encounters. The mention of talking animals isn’t straightforwardly common in scripture, which lends an extraordinary layer to the relationship between humans, nature, and the divine message in the text.