Numbers 25:10—26:51
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Phineas has zeal almost as much as God has. There always appears at least one faithful person after the heart of God; thus God alters the chastisement planned. Phinehas reminds us of Jesus. John in his Gospel cites Psalm 69:9 in reference to Jesus: “Zeal for Your house has consumed me” (2:17).
Who or what in your life receives your life-energies? If any work or person outside of God consumes you, you will indeed by “eaten alive.” However, spiritual zeal is like enthusiasm, the latter word literally meaning, “God inside-ism.” When you consume God through prayer, Scripture and the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, then you will be caught by the fire of God and be consumed by it.
At this point in the Book of Numbers, we are half-way through the forty years of wandering. A new generation is on the scene; a new census needs to be taken. Good news: this group does not complain!
Bible Breaths
What are these?
Zeal and joy on Your behalf 25:11
Lord: Your covenant of peace 25:12
Counted among Your people 26:1ff
Your future unfolding now
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Saturdays are dedicated to the Sabbath Torah portions
read in synagogues throughout the world.
This plan follows those traditions that take a third of the portion
over a three year cycle, this year, the third part.
For more about the Torah portions and thoughtful commentaries, visit
The Jewish Theological Seminary.
The Bible Through the Seasons 
The zealous leader must now channel his energy into the disciplines of peace and the service of God. Taking lives requires him to give life—and in this way, Pinhas will strive to be like his grandfather, Aaron, “loving peace and pursuing peace, loving God’s creations and bringing them all closer to Torah.”
From A Taste of Torah A Commentary by Rabbi Matthew Berkowitz, director of Israel Programs, JTS
For pdf file of Torah commentaries:
Click to access Torah%20from%20JTS%20Pinhas%205771.pdf
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