And he knew the mind of the Most High This implies Bilaam possessed direct knowledge of God's thoughts, not prophetic knowledge. This prompts the Gemara's question: How could he know this but be ignorant of his donkey's thoughts?

A moment is like a word What could Bilaam utter in such a brief moment? He may have intended to say "destroy them," which God changed to "king," as in Numbers 23:21. Rabbi Eliyahu suggests merely beginning the curse was sufficient. His desire for a lengthy curse is evident in Sanhedrin 105b.

From where do we learn this? The alternate reading, "How do we know a moment suffices for speech?", is redundant, as this is already established.

In the first three hours This refers specifically to the third hour, when kings of the east and west put on their crowns (and worship the sun). It's customary for kings to rise at this time (Berachos 9b).

Learn from this In versions reading "idolater," this makes sense, as idolaters aren't punished by being thrown into a pit (Avodah Zarah 26a). Bilaam intended harm, not death. Even with the reading "heretic," who are subject to such punishment, it's understandable, as Bilaam sought his death. Nevertheless, the Gemara concludes this isn't standard practice, as one shouldn't force God's hand, even against someone deserving death.

Since there is a congregation praying, it is not pushed aside Rabeinu Tam clarifies: While prayer from a congregation elsewhere prevents a curse's dismissal, the prayer itself is effective only where the congregation prays (Berachos 6a).