MY DAILY LIFE TORAH COACH:
Parashat Pinchas n.42

Parshat Pinchas offers a compelling lens through which to explore the tension between zealotry and responsible leadership in any society, ancient or modern.

While the portion begins with a disturbing act of violence committed in the name of moral clarity, it quickly shifts focus to more constructive themes: institutional stability through a new census, the courageous advocacy of the daughters of Zelophehad for gender equity, and the peaceful transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua.

Rather than glorifying extremism, the text ultimately seems to suggest that enduring change comes not through impulsive passion, but through inclusive policies, thoughtful governance, and the courage to adapt inherited systems to better serve justice.