Evergreen

Pinchas' violent act raises questions about the extent of any leader's authority.

The transition in leadership from Moses to Joshua provides us with a model for contemporary changes in leadership.

God gives Pinchas a covenant of peace; God explains the apportionment of the Land of Israel; the daughters of Tzelophechad petition to inherit their father's portion; Moses appoints Joshua his successor.

Just as God advocated for the property rights of Zelophehad's daughters, we should work to create economic opportunities for those who have lacked them.

People who translate zeal for God into violence must normally possess the qualities and ethics worthy of a covenant of peace.

Only a passionate zealous act can respond adequately to sins and crimes of passion.

What are the consequences, or even the possibility, of separating ourselves from our communities, like Korach did?

Korach's rebellion was based on his inability to appreciate the value of diversity and distinctiveness.

Jewish sources suggest tears and tzedakah [charity] as two modern replacements for the Red Heifer.

Moses' fatal flaw is his inability to wean his people from their dependence on him.