Phinehas

Biblical figure

Phinehas (Hebrew: פִּינְחָס , Pīnəḥās) is a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible, known for his zealous actions and his role as a priest. He is the grandson of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and the son of Eleazar, the high priest. Phinehas is best known for his decisive intervention during the incident at Baal-peor, where he stopped a plague among the Israelites by killing an Israelite man and a Midianite woman who were flagrantly violating the covenant with God.

Biblical Narrative

Phinehas first appears in the Book of Numbers, specifically in Numbers 25. During the Israelites' encampment at Shittim, some of the people began to engage in sexual immorality with the women of Moab, which led them to worship the Moabite gods, including Baal. This angered God, who sent a plague upon the Israelites.

Phinehas slaying Zimri and Kozbi

Phinehas, witnessing an Israelite man named Zimri openly bringing a Midianite woman named Cozbi into the camp, took a spear and killed both of them. This act of zeal stopped the plague, which had already claimed the lives of 24,000 Israelites. God praised Phinehas for his zeal and granted him a "covenant of peace" and a "lasting priesthood" for him and his descendants.

Role and Legacy

Phinehas's actions are seen as a turning point in the narrative of the Israelites. His zeal for God's commandments and his willingness to act decisively in defense of the covenant are highlighted as exemplary. The "covenant of peace" granted to him is interpreted as a divine endorsement of his actions and a promise of enduring priesthood for his lineage.

Phinehas, Zimri, and Cozbi

Phinehas later appears in the Book of Joshua as a leader and a priest. He is involved in the resolution of a potential conflict between the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh over an altar they built, which was initially misunderstood as an act of rebellion against God.

In Rabbinic Literature

In rabbinic literature, Phinehas is often portrayed as a model of piety and zeal. His actions are discussed in the context of the importance of upholding the covenant and the law. Some rabbinic sources also explore the ethical implications of his actions, balancing the need for zeal with the principles of justice and mercy.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Phinehas's story has been interpreted in various ways throughout history. In Christianity, he is sometimes seen as a precursor to the New Testament concept of zeal for God's house. In Judaism, his actions are often cited in discussions about the role of zeal and the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the covenant.

Pinchas, son of Eleazar

Related Pages

• Aaron
• Eleazar
• Zimri (prince)
• Cozbi
• Baal-peor