Pinchas - July 4, 2026 / 19Tammuz 5786
In this week’s parsha we see Pinchas being rewarded with priesthood for his generations, after having stood up for G-d in killing the Jews who turned to idols. Contrast his reward of priesthood, with Korach’s ambitions. Heavenly reward is earned, not in one’s own estimation, but in G-d’s esteem. In fact, the people initially criticize Pinchas for his killing of the sinners. Thus, the verse mentions him as son of Elazar son of Aaron, firmly placing him in the category of the priesthood and granting him the covenant of peace. So, we see clearly that Pinchas’ reward for his act of just violence is peace.
What is meant by Pinchas receiving the covenant of peace? The Midrash states that the world operates only with peace. The Torah is defined as peace, see Proverbs (3:17) where it states “it’s ways are pleasantness and all its pathways are peace.” Rabbi Shimon ben Chalafta said that “no vessel can contain blessing except peace.” This is why we greet each other and bid farewell with peace (“shalom” as hello and goodbye), and end the Amidah prayer with a prayer for peace.
However, one should not be confused by the Nation’s who tell us that peace is something we need to sacrifice for. Neither our lives nor our heritage is due for sacrifice. Not only is peace the reward for Pinchas’ act of force against those who consorted with the Midianites and turned to idols, the people are commanded to counterattack in retribution for their planned spiritual assault.
This parsha can teach us something about the value of peace, but also a recognition that sometimes evil must be met with force. Only through standing up for G-d can our heritage be earned.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Josh
What is meant by Pinchas receiving the covenant of peace? The Midrash states that the world operates only with peace. The Torah is defined as peace, see Proverbs (3:17) where it states “it’s ways are pleasantness and all its pathways are peace.” Rabbi Shimon ben Chalafta said that “no vessel can contain blessing except peace.” This is why we greet each other and bid farewell with peace (“shalom” as hello and goodbye), and end the Amidah prayer with a prayer for peace.
However, one should not be confused by the Nation’s who tell us that peace is something we need to sacrifice for. Neither our lives nor our heritage is due for sacrifice. Not only is peace the reward for Pinchas’ act of force against those who consorted with the Midianites and turned to idols, the people are commanded to counterattack in retribution for their planned spiritual assault.
This parsha can teach us something about the value of peace, but also a recognition that sometimes evil must be met with force. Only through standing up for G-d can our heritage be earned.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Josh
