Lessons from Pinchas

Shavua Tov-

The incident with Pinchas and his taking drastic actions, teaches us a great deal. We must first remember that what he did, ended a plague that killed 24,000 people.

It is also important to note that Pinchas was granted a covenant of Shalom, peace. It seems surprising that one who acts on his own and kills a princess of Moav and a head of tribe in Israel, is known as a man of peace.

This seems to indicate that at times, it’s necessary to take action, and not be afraid to do that which is unpopular. Having the faith and convictions that Pinchas had, made him act in a way that ultimately proved pleasing to G-d.

It also indicates that eradicating and confronting evil, ultimately brings peace. There are places that mention that it is considered merciful to get rid of evil individuals that are harming others. It is certainly anything but compassionate to allow outward evil to exist.

Pinchas taught us that eradicating evil and confronting it head on, was a merciful act that brought peace.